Tuesday, April 2, 2019
Brad was my mother's (Betty McCormick) next door neigbour and friend at Greenhaven Estates since he moved there years ago. Her previous neighbor had been a strange man, so mum was a bit dubious about another man moving in....but Brad was the exact opposite. He was a quiet, gentle, caring man, and they became friends. Mum always had treats for his dog Carmen, and this was the beginning of their friendship. Over the years, Brad kept a careful eye on mum for us...watching to ensure her kitchen light was on early every morning (as both were early risers), and as her mobility issues increased; he started cutting her grass, putting her garbage out for her weekly, and picking up her mail as well.
He would invite her over for a BBQ often in the summer, and they would sit on his front deck in the shade, and chat away. Mum liked to surprise him with homemade baked goods, as well as bags of popcorn, that she knew both he and Carmen enjoyed.
On my yearly trips home to stay with mum, I had the pleasure of getting to know this wonderful man as well; and I''ve enjoyed his chili dogs and hamburgers on his deck with mum too. My siblings and I always said that mum was so lucky to have him next door....and she readily agreed.
Mum often said " we should all be like Brad....grateful for each day we have, and greet it with a smile". Brad was an inspiration, and I am writing this tribute for my mother, who grew to care for him very much....and for myself ( Brenda), and my siblings...Jim, Mary and John, who will all miss this amazing man. Thank you Brad for reminding us that life is precious...and to stop complaining and grumbling about little things....and to live with a grateful heart daily.
Funeral Establishment Operator Class 1 License FE-415
