Remembering Popsie

Pete's grandpa, Popsie, passed away in March at age 96 and the Durning family gathered at the end of August in Twin Lakes to celebrate his life. The memorial was the weekend after school started, which meant that the kids and Pete went to their first day of school and then we boarded a plane for NY the next day, missing days 2 and 3 of the school year. We'd do it all over again for a family reunion like this. One of Pete's uncles was talking to Jude about his extensive travels and when he asked Jude what his favorite trip had been, he replied, "This one." Indeed, it was the first time the clan had gathered all together in 4 years (when Laurel and Aaron got married) and it was so special. 

The kids got a rest during the car ride from Newark to CT and managed to make it through the first evening dinner at Kings Highway Cider Shack and dessert in Millerton. We stayed with Pete's immediate family at a rental in Millerton and enjoyed a big brunch the next morning to the sounds of the cousins rehearsing for their performances later that day. 

We road together with Sylvia, Jean, and Susan from Noble Horizons to the memorial in A Better Place Forest in Falls Village, CT. The family chose this private forest where loved ones' ashes can be spread at a chosen tree and the proceeds help conserve the forest. 

We all gathered and then watched Sylvia and Popsie's 10 children mix together the ashes of Popsie and his beloved dog, MacTavish. 

We then walked to the chosen tree for the service. Beautiful remarks were made by Steve, Sylvia, Jenny, and John. Jonah and Jessie played Danny Boy and we all sang Popsie's favorite naval hymns. 

We then took turns spreading the ashes and wildflower seeds and ended with the great grandchildren watering the flowers. 

The photo is of Popsie at Pete and my wedding.

Matt took amazing photos of the service

Then we went back to the house for the celebration of life. There was more beautiful music from Pete, Matt, Jonah, and John, family photos, good food, and memories shared. 

Sibling photo

Cousin photo

Heidi shared her talents in honor of Popsie

Jetlag hits hard

Popsie was smiling down on all of us with this sunset.

Oma and Opa took the kids home so that we could stay to party. 

The Skittle master showing us how it's done!

We had the whole of Sunday to enjoy the lake, a burger dinner, and a sunset cruise. 

The kids were excited to go tubing again

Malcolm, Jessie, and Clayton taught Jude a song and dance to New York, NY. Musical theater FTW!

I really loved all of the time to sit and catch up with relatives. It was a really special weekend. 

We had a red-eye home on Monday, which gave us a little time to say our goodbyes, enjoy one final firecracker popsicle, experience some Japanese culture, and do our American grocery store run. 

You are missed, Popsie, but you have left an incredible legacy in your wonderful children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.