Clare was my second mother when I moved to Canada in August of 1982 and treated me more like a son than an in-law. She welcomed me into her home for several months before we were able to move to our own apartment as newly weds. She had been there for me through ups and downs and cherished our relationship that had developed from my childhood through our family friendship back in Kenya in the '60s. She has been a rock in our relationship missing us when we moved to Guelph briefly and welcomed us back to Mississauga after graduating from OVC. Through the births of our children and the growing pains of my practice, she was always a refuge I could count on, whether it was to help with baby sitting or supporting Lisette through hard times when I couldn't. It was with love that we were able to repay some of that generosity when Larry took ill and later when he died. Helping her enjoy an independence at Chartwell was joy and inspiration as we saw her soldier on through COVID with the help of a Facebook Portal. She was also the spark that lit the idea for Cycling Without Age - Mississauga, my charity that hopes to improve the lives of the elderly living through their senior years. She has left an indelible mark on my life, not only by accepting my marriage to her daughter but by loving our children and grandsons with all her heart. She will be missed dearly.
My Dearest Mum,
I will miss seeing the expression of love on your face when I walked through the door. I will miss your embrace as vou tell me "You are my last baby". I will miss your perspective on my problems of the moment and the reminders that the world is larger than I perceive it. I will miss your endless belief that I can accomplish whatever I put my mind to. I will miss just sitting quietly by your side, each of us enjoying the comfort of the other's presence. God blessed me with you as my mother. I will forever love you ...until we meet again. Your last baby, Lola
Supermarket Flowers - Lyrics
I took the supermarket flowers from the windowsill
I threw the day-old tea from the cup
Packed up the photo album Matthew had made
Memories of a life that's been loved
Took the get well soon cards and stuffed animals
Poured the old ginger beer down the sink
Dad always told me, "Don't you cry when you're down"
But mum, there's a tear every time that I blink
Oh, I'm in pieces, it's tearing me up, but I know
A heart that's broke is a heart that's been loved
So, I'll sing Hallelujah
You were an angel in the shape of my mum
When I fell down, you'd be there holding me up
Spread your wings as you go
And when God takes you back
He'll say, "Hallelujah, you're home"
I fluffed the pillows, made the beds, stacked the chairs up
Folded your nightgowns neatly in a case
John said he'd drive then put his hand on my cheek
And wiped a tear from the side of my face
And I hope that I see the world as you did, 'cause I know
A life with love is a life that's been lived
So, I'll sing Hallelujah
You were an angel in the shape of my mum
When I fell down, you'd be there holding me up
Spread your wings as you go
And when God takes you back
He'll say, "Hallelujah, you're home"
Hallelujah
You were an angel in the shape of my mum
You got to see the person I have become
Spread your wings and I know
That when God took you back
He said, "Hallelujah, you're home"
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Benjamin Levin / Ed Sheeran / Johnny Mcdaid
Supermarket Flowers lyrics © Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited, Hipgnosis Side B
It is with great sadness that I heard of the passing of my dear aunt , who was not just the eldest of the Oliveira siblings, but a much loved presence within the wider family, and was a beacon of grace, kindness, love and dedication for all of us.
She was truly a remarkable woman whose kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her presence brought comfort and joy to so many, and her love for her family was evident in everything she did.
To my cousin's and their families, during this time of sorrow, I hope you find comfort in the beautiful memories you shared and strength in the love that surrounds you. May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory forever be a blessing.
Rest peacefully dear Auntie. You will always be much loved and never forgotten .
We loved you in life and will be forever in our hearts. Rest in Peace with your beloved Larry.
My thoughts are with you Lisette and family at this difficult time. Sending love and hugs to you, Kevin and the whole family. 💞
