Dearest Gary,

A life well-lived extraordinary in every sense. I've always thought this as I have heard and witnessed your journey. You have lived through a life filled with pain, suffering, heartbreak, joy and love.

Your life is an intricate tapestry of exuberance, with characters of all kinds woven together from the air, sea and lands. You have traveled to exotic places near and far and in every experience, you have touched the world in your own way.

You have courted your greatest love and soul mate, living the most beautiful story book romance, one that spans many genres.

I am so grateful that you have come into my life and set the standard for being a true gentleman, bringing so many adventures and experiences not only to me, but also my children.

Some of my most cherished memories are in those quiet moments amidst the chaos filled with thumb-wrestling, chess, dancing, cooking or just simply sitting together in stillness observing nature.

You are the producer, the composer, setting the stage. Your ability to weave music, candles, and scents into the air, something for the senses, all with purposeful intention. From the way you set the table, the food you serve, and the atmosphere you create, every detail coming together for the grand finale - the masterpiece.

Gathering around the table sharing stories of whimsy and adventure, engaging everyone until the very end.

I have watched as each person who encounters you, come away with a piece of your intention, most without even realizing it. Through you we have experienced romance, intellect, art, music, theater and nature.

You have been an integral part of helping my children broaden their world. Infusing their souls with music and love of the earth which they will carry with them throughout their lives, a homage to you.

You are life's gardener. I have been around to see the moments your thoughtful planting, nurturing and care. My children have a beautiful start to their own gardens with many "Gary" gifts to fill the spaces. As they continue to grow-up and face their own hardships and celebrations that life brings, I know they will always have those gifts to hold onto to, offering them quiet guidance when they need it the most.

Thank you for choosing to love us, for pouring yourself into that love and filling our cups.

Thank you for loving Dagma so fully and helping heal our entire family as well.

You have created a safe haven, a space for exploration and curiosity and a legacy that will last for generations.

Without you my children may have never known the joy of fresh fruit from the vine, or the feeling of tomatoes squishing between their toes.

They may have missed the feeling of salt-breeze on their faces, the quiet wonder of nature, the rhythm of the earth. The final moment of an amazing performance before the curtain falls.

You have shown them what it feels like to be truly appreciated, to feel beautiful and strong. How to play and dance - to simply be themselves and that is enough.

They have learned that they can expect to be loved special. To have a man open doors and pull out chairs. To show them love through actions. That love is romantic, thoughtful, and kind.

Your presence has given them the gift of knowing what it feels like to be safe, appreciated, and loved unconditionally.

I believe that nothing in this life is stale or permanent. That everything returns to the earth, to balance. I know it will be impossible for a while without your physical presence here, yet I know your spirit will be here encouraging us, gently reminding us to live our life in them moments with love and gratitude. To always live the best version of ourselves and never settle for less.

Thank you feels hollow and not enough to really express my love, gratitude and affection for you. I love you Gary and everything you represent in this world. You are forever imprinted on my soul.

Love your daughter, Karrie.

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