A neighbor died suddenly yesterday. Though I did not know him well, I'd only met him a few times, that does not negate the sadness that one feels in a situation like this. There is never a good time of the year for this kind of event, but it is especially sad when it happens during a time of joy and family closeness. To those that knew him, those that know his family. . . his wife, his children, you are in my thoughts. I wish his family all the strength in the world as they make their way through this difficult journey.

Agreed. I did not know him either...however, I received an e-mail with the news. Everytime I drive by the house and see the cars, I can't help but feel an extreme sadness and weight on my heart. I wish the family and friends all the strength in the world to get through this. How sad...

I'm sure this happened when my mom died too. I feel in my heart now and realize that a lot more people were probably thinking of her and our family than we really knew. -her neighborhood. (and mine out here in Glen Ellyn too. My neighbors knew within a day). It's nice to know that there are people like you all out there. You do exist! Thank you for your post.

We know the family well and are stunned at this tragedy. He was a fantastic father, caring and generous husband and all-around highly-thought of person. He was a truly great guy to count as a friend.

Hi,

Without disclosing who it was, can you tell us which elementary school his kids would go to? I am trying to figure out if it is someone that we know. We have not recieved an email about this, but it still might be someone we knew.

Nothing could be sadder than losing a loved one unexpectedly during this time of year. My heart goes out to them.

The house is in Forest Glen's attendance area.

East or west of Main St?

The youngest is a freshman and classmate of my daughter as well as GEMom, Buggy, Ohma, Mrs. Speech...and probably a few others. We do not know the family well though my daughter has known the peer since kindergarten - just not in the same circle of friends. Nonetheless, I dropped off a note and some food...I think that's what community is all about. I encourage those of you who know the family's location, to drop off a note. I can't imagine anything more heartwarming to help provide some, small degree of comfort. It's just so shocking when reality happens - especially when someone is so realatively young. My prayers are with them.

well said clam...they are all in my thougts and prayers.

Any reason why you can't mention the name? After all, if it is someone we know, perhaps we'd like to extend our condolences or help to the family. My kids are older than freshmen, so it very well could be the father of friends or acquaintances of theirs. I would assume there'll be an obituary, so why not mention the name now?

Or am I not understanding some kind of etiquette?

I don't know....it feels wierd to put a private person's name out there. We don't usually do that unless they are a public figure of some kind. Anyone??? What to do?

How about this: Scribbler, you can e-mail me at miramac4@gmail.com and I can tell you privately. It just feels more appropriate that way. I don't know why, it just does.

quote:

Originally posted by scotty:
East or west of Main St?

Scotty you can e-mail me too. You have a relative in the same grade as my daughter. That person probably knows who it is.

I understand - it does feel odd, yet - death makes a person public for maybe the only time in his life, correct? (Wasn't it the old saying that ladies were only supposed to see their name in a newspaper three times during their lifetime - at birth, at marriage, and at death?) We do feel free to express opinions, founded or unfounded, about certain people, by name, around here - yet something that is a fact, and will be made public sooner rather than later, if it hasn't been already, we can't? Even if it's to express sympathy and condolences, rather than the usual sarcastic opinion? It's an odd situation. But I'll respect it, even if I don't completely understand it.

I'd prefer it be done only by someone who can assure me that they have the family's permission... or after a newspaper has published the obit. Thanks. --TE

quote:

Originally posted by Amy:

quote:

Originally posted by scotty:
East or west of Main St?

Scotty you can e-mail me too. You have a relative in the same grade as my daughter. That person probably knows who it is.

Thanks Amy, I have emailed you and will make the info known as soon as I hear from you!!! I appreciate you and what you're doing right now!

Living each day to its fullest is a lot easier said then done. From all accounts, this man did a good job of doing so. In that way, he probably left a lifetime of great memories to his family and friends. Let's hope they can dwell on those good times to help get them through the painful days.

Absolutely. Well stated 4MP.

this passing, as well as the passing of another local father a few weeks ago, has affected my son #2. he is friends with a son of each man, and has proactively consoled these young men in what is surely the worst time of their short lives.

these are such unnatural circumstances for kids; it's hard for them to relate during times like these. but on the other hand, they also know that this is what friends are for.

we wish strength, courage and an unwavering bonding love to this family during this time of grief.

I believe it's in the paper now.