This morning's email contained a message from Mark, the officiant at our wedding, informing us that his longtime girlfriend, Marianne, died the morning of September 9. So today while the nation is reminiscing about the losses of 9/11, I'll be putting on Pink Martini and the CD of oboe music she gave me and remembering Marianne.
The last time we saw Marianne was earlier this summer. Mike and I got together with Mark and Marianne after we'd asked Mark to marry us. We talked over what we wanted to incorporate (and to avoid) in the ceremony. And over Indian food and later, tea, we talked about life, religion, politics, and the curious habits of dogs. Before that evening, I did not know one could have a pet in a no-pets apartment if one had a prescription for said pet/service animal to alleviate depression or other complications of being terminally ill. Sadly, Marianne was unable to attend the wedding and other related festivities as her illness sapped her strength and stamina.
We'll be going back to LA for Marianne's memorial service at the end of the month.
Underneath the sad, I'm crabby that cancer has claimed another much beloved friend and wonderful human being. Marianne D., DeWitt B., LeGrande S., Bing L. I know an awful lot of cancer survivors (including my dad), for which I am grateful. I just wish everyone could survive cancer and die of old age instead. Is that too much to ask?
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2 comments:
also, Janice B. I think she died a year or two after we left Pasadena. She was my wonderful visiting teacher during the time the twins were born. Susie, Bing's wife, was also my visiting teacher. More than once their family treated my family to a delicious meal.
I can't believe I forgot Janice! One of the book group ladies told us Janice said, "I don't know how people die without the Relief Society." Ours brought in meals, had people sit with her, arranged carpools for her children, etc.
I went to a Dia de los Muertos party after Janice's funeral and played the song with her solo from the choir CD. It's nice to be able to hear her beautiful voice anytime.
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