Rachel’s Eulogy for Peter
When your brothers are 7, 9, and 10 years older than you, it is easy to worship them. Particularly in the 1960’s and early 70’s since with their long hair, guitars, and harmonizing, in Kait and my eyes, they were the definition of hip. Peter’s time in England just added to that coolness. He came back to the States with a suave, chic, European flair. His life’s achievements were many. Successful scholar, businessman, caring son, loving father, doting husband, etc… But, the last 11 months of his life highlighted what makes Peter a true hero in my books. His stoicism, humor and courage when faced with the effects of ALS were awe inspiring.
During my visit, a week before he was hospitalized, he insisted on taking the stairs at their apartment complex, and walked 2 to 3 miles a day with me. These walks were both on the manicured trails of Skyline park and those treacherous with mud and interlaced roots at Cutler Park where he took me on side paths to share the views he particularly cherished. These last walks were filled by him with bad puns, remembrances of the lyrics to songs and his renditions of those songs, and honest investigation of the ramifications of his diagnosis.
He had a generous heart and loved sharing the elements of life that gave him pleasure. His favorite Rose, John Kelly chocolates, espresso made in their Breville machine with frothed milk for those who preferred cappuccino, his recipes for salmon, chicken, duck. He relished taking care of the people he loved.
He had no qualms about showing weakness or being silly, would comfortably ask for help from strangers because he truly enjoyed people from all walks of life and appreciated that his disabilities brought out the innate kindness in the people he encountered.
The only salve to the wound of his absence lies in how many of these attributes live on in Camilla, Julia, Oliver and Tammy.They are hikers, skiers, walkers and bon vivants, lovers of good chocolate and people of deep integrity and heart. During his sudden exit from our lives, their courage in the face of this immense tragedy, their appreciation of so much of what gave him joy, and their kindness both to him and to all of us who love him brings some healing to my heart.
