A New Zealand Love Story – Part 2

George in uniform - WWII
George in uniform – WWII

In December, after spending more than two weeks in New Zealand with my mother, I wrote about the men in her life. Many of you responded, some even shared the story with others. For a number of weeks now, I’ve resisted telling you the end of that story – the story of Mom and her love for George who lived half way around the world in New Zealand.

You see, George passed away on New Year’s day. Mom knew it was coming – we all did – but that doesn’t make the grief easier or reduce the pain of losing the man who came late in life with a love so sweet and pure. He was a wonderful man, one whose warmth and kindness will remain an inspiration. He touched many with his easy ways and ready smiles and interesting stories.

George served in Africa and Italy in WWII
George served in Africa and Italy in WWII

It was a privilege to be his friend and to know that our family – the family that lives in Canada – had a special place in his heart. And it was a privilege to be embraced by George’s family and to know that we will always have a warm welcome in that beautiful country.

George is survived by his five children and a large number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was loved by them all and will be remembered for years to come.

George - farming his land
George – farming his land

 

 

George with Jim, Barry, Brian, Marian and Ross
George with Jim, Barry, Brian, Marian and Ross
George and many of his grandchildren plus my mother
George and many of his grandchildren plus my mother

 

George and my mother
George and my mother

 

 

 

 

 

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Meet M.K.Tod

Meet M.K.Tod

The historical fiction author behind A Writer of History...

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7 Responses

  1. My sympathy to your mother and all of you, Mary. How lucky for her to have had George in her life. You’re right, knowing the end is coming doesn’t make it easier; what it does allow is a moment to say good-bye. Peace.

  2. This is a truly beautiful story. Your mum is a lovely woman and wasn’t George a handsome young man. I read the first part of their story and rejoiced in it and now I have a tear in my eye but not of sadness but because their story shows that life can be a wonderful journey.

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