"In Tributum Ut"

A man died today, he was not famous, influential or rich, he did not win any “Nobel” prizes or leave his mark in the history books, but he sure made an impact on the lives of those who knew him. He was a father, a grandfather, a husband, an ex husband, a son, a brother, a cousin and an old family friend. He laughed with enthusiasm, reminisced with a smile and told the nastiest jokes he could think of. He was the inspiration behind the old adages: “He drinks like a fish and smokes like a chimney!” I am sure he has nursed thousands of hangovers. He was unashamedly racist and didn’t care that what he said was offensive to some, me included. In fact, I believe he said some things precisely because they were offensive. He was most certainly not a religious man, though he was by no means “Godless,” he was a hooligan, not a heathen. He enjoyed the company of not just his generation but also that of a younger generation, a generation that enjoyed his company immensely.
I am sure there are many who would frown on how he lived his life, I am sure there are some who were offended by his behaviour. But, I liked him! I liked that he always seemed so genuinely pleased whenever I saw him. I liked that he always asked after my parents and each of my brothers and listened with interest to my replies. I liked that he always had something nice to say about my dad and spoke of my mum with respect. I liked that he always spoke of my grandparents with reverence. I liked that he never hid the pride he had for his daughters and his grandsons. I liked that he was never anything other than his true self no matter the circumstances.
A man died today, he was not what society would use as an example of the perfect man and he never pretended to be. What he was, was a man who lived a full life, filled with laughter, love and memories. What he was, was a man young in heart, mind and attitude. What he was, was a father who did his best and must have got something right. What he was, was a man who was loyal to his family and friends. What he was, was a man who never compromised his beliefs, or lack thereof, to fit into a mould. What he was, was unique in every sense of the word.
A man died today and I am truly saddened by his death. With his passing comes the end of an era that was all of his own making.

And so, a toast, a tribute to your uniqueness, to a life well lived and to the fond memories I and all who know you hold dear. Your passing has left a space in the hearts of many, an empty ashtray on the table and a half full bottle of whiskey on the bar. I will always remember you with fondness, the old family friend, father to my lifelong friends and a legend in your own right. God speed, Uncle Brian rest peacefully!