On Friday

 

Strange, that I mentioned my father-in law here on Thursday.  Not 24 hours later, he was gone. 

His life spanned 81 years, from war-torn Europe to the peaceful suburbs of Melbourne.  He built a life for himself and his family here, continuing on his own after the tragic early death of his wife - mother of his 5 children.  He saw his children, grandchildren and great-grand-children grow and was proud of their successes, small and large.   The strength of his loving family is testament to the values that carried him through the toughest of times. 

He was a strong character - complicated, funny, fiery, and fiercely independent.  We loved him, and feel blessed to have spent the last 14 months with him in our everyday lives.

There's a big gap in this household now, but the pain of age and illness is gone for him.

  You deserve a good rest, Ilias.   Rest in peace.