I wanted to make a separate post about Kathleen’s uncle, Garry Turcotte. He passed away last week after his battle with cancer at the age of 78. Like all of Kathleen’s aunts and uncles and cousins, he had always made me feel like I was an instant family member. But what I particularly remember about Gary is how much he loved his wife Dorothy and I guess I felt that connection to him– as many of you might suspect, I kind of like Kathleen. The last time I saw him was when Kathleen was in the hospital. He was coming back from his own treatment visit with his son Brock. I am sure he was feeling pretty beat up, but he still wanted to see Kathleen. Incredibly heart warming understates it. Trying his best to be supportive of us, when he was in really tough. The last thing he said to me was “look after her eh.”
After the funeral, we went down to the beach at Port Elgin and shared this kiss. Goodbye Garry and Dorothy, this kiss is for you wherever you are. I will do my best to live up to the amazing standard you set for love.
in the cancer bubble 
Sorry about your Uncle Gary. Sounds like he was a caring guy. love the kiss, woohoo!
Dear Kathleen and Mike,
It sounds like your Uncle Gary had a loving and fierce spirit. Much like his niece (that would be you, Kathleen). This is a very precious and tender moment captured on this chapter of your blog. I think my allergies must be bad today … my eyes are a tad bit watery. 😉
Big hugs to you both, xo Jill
There is a whole lot of “Uncle Gary” in Kathleen!!!!
good morning. I’m sorry to hear about Kathleen’s Uncle. I’m sure he has been an inspiration to Kathleen during this time. Sounds like his lifetme has been to you as well Mike. And you are a wonderful support for Kathleen as she goes thru this battle. You are giving her encouragement, strength, love, care and ‘nursing’ which is why she is able to be home as much as she is. This all give Kathleen the strength and endurance she needs to battle this cancer. You are both, inspirational. If I had to go thru this, I hope that I could handle it as well as Kathleen is and that my spouse could do for me what you are for Kathleen. Stay strong, we’re all here for you too. Big hugs to both of you!
My heart skips a beat at the warmth of love and expression you write of. We are a huge family network of cousins from the Ottawa Valley….where the love all started…we pray for you both and please know we keep Kathleen close to our hearts in prayer. Gary and Dot were a huge part of our family we will miss them forever. Thank you for sharing your profound moment. Jennifer
What a fitting and wonderful tribute to Garry! So well said. He is so proud of both of you, we can feel it, Kathleen and Mike. It was so very special to see you both at Garry’s service. The pic is one of the best ones ever seen on the beach of Port Elgin! ….Colleen and Terry
Kathleen and Mike
Wow I agree with Colleen and Terry, what a kiss. I would blow that picture up and frame it. PRICELESS