I had the privilege of working side-by-side with Carol-Ann for 22 years. We spent virtually a lifetime together, all day, every day. We worked, we laughed, we experienced ups and downs together, but most of all, we had a friendship built on mutual respect, trust and shared interests. "Till Death Do Us Part," we always said. Frick and Frack, some said. We used to imagine ourselves older and retired, spending days cooking, doing needlepoint, listening to the music we both loved, going to art shows, and laughing. Things didn't turn out as we planned; funny how life puts people on different paths from what they once imagined. But I always thought that if she pre-deceased me, I would give the eulogy at her funeral, to make sure to tell the world what an amazing and unique person she was.
As anyone who knew Carol-Ann can attest, she was truly one of a kind. She had her very own language (anyone ever have "sips" with her?), nicknames for everyone (I was "Beez," she was "Meez"), and a classic car that it sometimes seemed she loved more than anyone else. Her outlook on life was positive and uplifting. She cared for the elderly, and helped those around her age with dignity (my mother included). She was incredibly funny, generous, with a zest for living, tremendous compassion and an upbeat spirit.
Her passing has left a giant hole in my heart. My greatest sadness in our relationship is that I never got to say good-by properly, and remind her how much she meant to me and how much I genuinely and truly loved our years together.
For anyone who reads this, stop. Think about those you love. Now call them and tell them before it's too late.
Go rest high, Meez. With love, from your Beez.
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