Sunday, May 11, 2008

Louise Bussiere 1935-2008

After a long struggle, my Mom, Louise Bussiere, passed away late Friday afternoon. Arrangements are pending. Mom was, in her later years, a difficult person but I remember her as bon vivant and a bit quirky. I used to joke that she seemed to have acid flashbacks without, as far as I know, ever taking LSD. She was an accomplished artist (but I can't draw a straight line)and, above all, fiercely loyal to me and my sister.

I can't say that I entirely understand it yet, but there is a special difficulty in losing a parent. Of course, you mourn for a loved one but also, at least when the chronology is the customary, for your lost youth, the loss of protection and the passing, in part, of the world you were born into. A new book suggests that this presents opportunities for growth, but, right about now, I'd rather not hear about them.

Mom died as my son arrived at the hospital. He didn't need to see her again.
He had said what he needed to say and she had been unconscious for six days, He told me that he just wanted to be with his dad and aunt and cousin at the end. She let him do that.

Many thanks to those who posted here or sent e-mails of support and sympathy. Blogging will resume shortly.

15 comments:

illusory tenant said...

I'm very sorry, Rick, and sadly unfortunate timing. My condolences.

Anonymous said...

Our prayers are with you and your family, my friend. I praise the Lord for His grace in allowing your son to arrive as she passed.

No matter how long the illness, death catches us by surprise, it seems.

And moms are special to most kids.

Again, may God bless your family during this difficult time.

Dad29 said...

Requiescat in pace

Amy said...

Prayers for you and your family, Rick.

+ May the souls of the faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, rest in peace. +

Unknown said...

My condolences, Rick.

David Casper said...

My sympathies, Rick.

grumps said...

My condolences, Rick

Anonymous said...

As difficult as it is to see in this world, the Apostle Paul wrote that to die is gain...and that we should thank the Lord for all things.
Those writings among other things helped me and our children when their mother died.

Emily said...

My heart goes out to you and your family. All the books in the world, no matter how good, can never quite fully explain what this kind of experience is like, mostly because it's both vastly different and eerily similar for everyone. You'll find your own way through.

Take care.

Billiam said...

Mr. Rick, you have my deepest sympathies. Having lost my Dad and step-Mom in the last 4 years, I know where you're at. All my prayers, man.

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry, RIck.

Unknown said...

My condolences to you and your family, Professor.

Anonymous said...

My condolences, Rick

Anonymous said...

My sincere condolences.

Curt

John McAdams said...

My sincere condolences, and prayers that you and the rest of your family can make it though this trial.