I write to tell you about my relationship with Uncle Dave. He has been in my life always – as “Aunt Sue’s husband” – until 4 years ago, when she passed. I recall speaking at her funeral, looking into the audience, and noting Uncle Dave up front, wiping a tear from his face. For the first time I saw a gentle, private man grieving for his loss. Being vulnerable wasn’t his thing – until recently!  When I think about Uncle Dave, I think about all the years it took to get a word out of him; of the time he was mad at me, and we didn’t talk.  My heart was broken, but we reconciled before too long. I think about him holding Aunt Sue’s hand, at the front door – waving “goodbye” as I pulled out of their driveway. They were so in love! 
He was the good looking one in the family, though he’d never own it.  Boasting a full head of wavy grey hair often embarrassed him, so I kept our conversations about his good looks to a minimum. Then one day, he just started talking – and bragging about his time in the Navy, his body building days, and what he was willing, and not willing to do with his life. “Should” was not a word in his vocabulary. “You deserve it” was his constant fatherly advice. I loved to be lectured by him and enjoyed our expanded conversation times. He was proud of both his children. The fact that Bruce flew a plane astounded him, as did his successful careers as a builder, plumber, and mortgage lender. Carol was his best friend visiting him every day, after work. He appreciated her – his strong arm, and a blessing for both of them. 
I regret that I didn’t get to see Uncle Dave before he fell ill.  My last visit with him was in early 2020 – just before the pandemic exploded. I am grateful that I saw him one more time, but most of all I am thankful for the bond we created these past four years. Hearing “I love you, Susan” from Uncle Dave was his best gift to me! We said it often – and I will never forget that. 
I love you too, Uncle Dave. Rest In Peace.
Susan


Chapel Memorial

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Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Mortuary & Memorial Park 

Dave Kalish

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Dave Kalish

May 5, 1929 – May 9, 2022

Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Mortuary & Memorial Park

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