For Dédé

Norayr Cholakian passed away last night, in his 103rd year.

Not a famous man but as honourable and gentlemanly a gentleman who has ever lived.

His energy & determination were surpassed only by his adoration of his beloved wife. To the end, his life-force left those around him astonished at his indomitable spirit.

Born in Turkey in 1909, died in 21st-century Canada, it's safe to say he lived through changes that would have left most people bewildered. Not so our dear grandfather, whose sharp mind and kindness saw him through everything from the Ottoman Empire to the information age. His warm smile and old-world manners always left you feeling the better for having been with him. 

We were lucky to have known him, luckier to have been his descendants and we now take comfort that he will reside alongside his adored Mélo.

For me, my sister & my brother, he was our last surviving grandparent. Now that he has left us, our final link to the lives of Sudan & Egypt also leaves us the responsibility to do as Mémi & Dédé did, as Téta & Guéddou did, as Margot did: leave the place better than we found it.

Rest in peace, Dédé.

Comments

[Mike]

Sorry for your loss, my friend, and glad you made it last week.

[Erin Wilson]

I'm sorry for your loss, Robert. :(

[sonia]

You will never cease to amaze me, my darling son.
You already make this world a better place every day.
Thank you.

[Heather]

So sorry for your loss Robert, but it sounds like he has left a wonderful legacy behind!

[robert]

Thank you for the kind words. He was a wonderful man.
I have no idea what to say about my mom's comment. Mother's prerogative, I guess.

[claire]

Robert, I'm sorry for your loss. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and you already do a great job of carrying on his spirit.

[Erin Wilson]

Your mom's comment kinda made me... well, you know...

[robert]

Cry? Shocker! And in other news, water is wet.

[Erin Wilson]

Ha! :)