(A poem written for me by Sonja v.d.Bout)

JOE

One name, many different memories.

Memories of a great husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin & friend.

Why God, did his life come to an end?

Although his pain came to an end,

Yours has only now started,

From your great love you are parted.

Your heart must now have time to mend.

He brought so much love and laughter during his short life.

I remember your wedding day.

It seems like only yesterday,

In his eyes shone so much love for his new wife.

Why God, did you take him away?

It feels like he still had such a big role in many lives to play.

How could You leave behind a young widow?

A grieving father, mother, sisters and a brother.

So much pain and so much sorrow?

We know he is happier with You now.

No more pain for him, no more limits in his life.

Dear Lord, please be with his wife.

Give her strength and carry her through her sorrow.

Give her in time again a will and lust for life.

And may she experience a will to see forward to a new tomorrow.

Joe, we will remember you with fondness,

Your smile and love will never be forgotton.

And although your life is over on earth with us here;

In Heaven your place was ready and you go on living there.

You will forever be in our hearts, dear Joe.

Your memories will never go.