RIP, Auntie Uck

My aunt, the one who had her arm and shoulder amputated at the beginning of August, died during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday. About a week before her passing, she began a rapid deterioration, losing cognitive and motor functioning. I don't know many of the details, but the short version is that, considering what she was going through, it is a blessing that she went quickly. I am very sad for my uncle and my dad, and for her children and grandchildren. And, of course, I am sad for myself, too. We hadn't been all that close since I left my hometown at age 18, but she was always very kind to me, and she was a very big part of my childhood. She was an amazing person, who had been through a lot. I will miss her.

The last time I saw her was at the baby shower that my sister-in-law threw for TM and me in June. My aunt presented us with a very sweet handknit sweater and hat. Kid A will wear them next week when we go to the funeral. On that day, my aunt looked well, and happy. I don't know whether or not she felt as well as she looked, but I feel grateful that our last visit together was on such a happy occasion. Also at the shower, my aunt presented us with a quilt that my grandmother, who died in 1997, had made. Granny had made four quilts, one for each of her grandchildren, for the children that they would have someday. My aunt had kept them all in a cedar chest since my grandmother's death, and brought Kid A's quilt to the shower for us. My aunt was a special person.

My little brother called her Auntie Uck. I don't remember the story of how the name originated, but I will gather reminiscences from the family, and will post again. I'll miss you, Auntie Uck. I am glad to have known you.