Editor's note: John Ford, who for many years in the 1990s wrote the humorous, insightful Off the Top column in The Tri-City News, passed away at home on May 8 surrounded by his loved ones. He was 76. Ever the wordsmith he maintained a blog for the last months of his life until cancer affected his optic nerve John wrote the following obituary himself.
By John Ford
The Tri-City News
Two or three times I'd heard the black wings pass overhead but this time they stopped above me, the soft talons lifted me and carried me to the next stage of my existence. I'll miss you and hope you miss me but please, don't grieve too long.
To Sharie, my best friend, wife, lover, caregiver, helpmeet, constant companion and single greatest source of joy in my life, I'll be seeing you. But until then, seek out and take whatever happiness you can find because happy suits you so well and spreads itself to those around you.
To our sons Reaon and Liam, I know you will protect and care for your mother as I've always tried to do, and that you'll give her the comfort she needs. But live your own lives in your own ways, as the very special men you are. Pride being one of the deadly sins, let me just say that I'm happy to think I had some part in your becoming what you are. Know that I loved you and cherished our time together.
To my son Sean, thank you for your understanding and your love. You are a man of stature. You know why. Thank you too for my grandson Nolan. My love for both of you is among my treasures.
To all of you who knew me, if even once you thought of me as a friend, thank you. Friendship is a precious commodity, one that should never be bestowed lightly or taken for granted. To all of you who tolerated me through the high and low times I also say thank you. Given more time you too might have been able to think of me as a friend.
No matter. For me this part of the journey is over. I've travelled hopefully and always claimed it was a better thing than arriving. Now we'll see.
IN REMEMBRANCE
Donations can be made in honour of John Ford to Crossroads Hospice Society (www.crossroadshospicesociety.com, 604-945-0606).
Condolences can be left in the guestbook at www.caringbridge.org/visit/johnford2.
