Wednesday, 20 January 2010

Celebrating a life

My Brother Russell would have been celebrating his 52nd Birthday today so I thought I would celebrate his life by adding one of my favorite photograph of him to share with you all.
Russell was 17 years old, in the prime of his life and I was 10 years old, he longed for a career in the Navy from starting his teens and that is what he had, he served in the Merchant Navy and loved every minute of it.

We actually got along famously which is unusual for brothers and sisters even with the age gap between us, I was a very difficult child with a temper like you wouldn't believe yet Russell always had time for me and I would tag along by his side.
His letters home were amazing and he would describe everything he saw on his journey's to the point you felt like you were there with him.

Then came the devastating news that Russell had been lost at sea 50 miles from the coast of South Africa, they searched for days but he was never found.
Our beautiful Son, Brother, Friend was gone from our lives without a trace, our hearts tore in pain of losing him.
I still when thinking of him have that voice in my head that says "wouldn't it be lovely if he just walked up the garden path and knocked at the door" (sigh)

Love you Russell, be safe in the arms of our Dad.


12 comments:

Marge said...

How sad to lose him in the prime of his life, Jak. We never know what plan God has for us, do we? Thinking of you on this difficult day & know that he & your Father are smiling down on you!

Sue from Oregon said...

You can tell by this picture that he was quite a character. Lovely tribute Sister!

Lynne Phelps said...

No matter how long they are gone the love remains just as vibrant now as then. God bless you all.

Kevin Renz said...

What lovely words to share with us about your brother Jak...but he lives on through you and your family.

Val said...

What lovely memories you have of Russell and it is this that binds you to him as your brother. Thank you for sharing with us.
Love
Valxx

Mad Mary said...

Oh Jak, that is so sad, i am sure your brother would have been so proud of all you have done too. Thank you for sharing such a touching story with us all.

Mary x

Janette said...

This has really touched me,so glad you shared your story,so sorry you lost a much loved brother,hugs Janette.x

Myrna said...

Jak,
Prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Myrna

Debbie Pamment said...

A beautiful way to honour your brother - he's always walking beside you in your heart!
xXx

Anonymous said...

Oo Jak my love and thoughts are with you,at this sad time..Memories are a wonderful thing, never to be forgotten.
Take care.
Love Sian xx

KraftyKoolKat said...

I am in tears Jak as I miss read your posting at the begining and I thought he was still alive. I had to go back and read it again when I came to the bit that he was lost. Sorry you had to carry on life without this super brother. Cathy xxx

Unknown said...

Heartbroken to read this Jak. So sorry.