James Gadin
I lost one of my best friends on November 30th at 4:40pm. I sat at his bed side praying for some type of miracle as I held his hand. I suppose God was the one that received the true miracle when he decided he needed the company of Mr. Turner as he swiftly took him with his last breath. I have discovered that I had a miracle all along though, this fine man was placed in my life for over eleven years and we had formed a true friendship that has left me with such wonderful memories of all the time we spent together.
We had been delivering Meals on Wheels together for almost 7 years. The seasons would change as time went by, we would comment on how each season had it's own beauty, but we would both complain to each other about the cold winters, well I did most of the complaining. He was more of a man who did not care for fall because it was the start of everything becoming bare and depressing.
I so enjoyed the stories he would tell me about growing up in Longton and all the antics that he shared with his very good friend J.R. I learned a lot of history about Longton and other places he had lived. We would talk about what made us happy and sad. We were pretty good at cheering each other up while spending all those many hours together. We talked a lot about family, world events and everything under the sun. I was able to talk to him about dark moments in my life that I have never shared with anyone and I know in my heart that he took my secrets to the grave with him. He was such a good listener and just knew when all I needed was to let off some steam or just needed to get something off my chest.
I spoke at his service on December 6th, but I know that I was not prepared and I really didn't say things that I had forgotten due to this great loss. I was trying hard not to lose my composure and that was in my mind as well. I do believe that I have forgotten things as I have written this piece about him and what a wonderful friend he was. I find myself talking to him at times as if he were still here and it brings a smile to my face because I believe he can still hear me. It was an honor to have had the time that we shared together and I miss him so much. I will do as I promised him while he was still with us. I told him that if anything happened to him before Mrs. Turner that I would always make myself available to help her in anyways possible.
Mr. Turner, I will never forget you and you have truly touched our lives and hearts big guy. I miss you terribly as we all do Rest in peace buddy and I hope God enjoys you company as much as I have.
James
