Date: Tue, Nov 24, 2015 9:37 AM
During a recent look at our PIRC HOME website, I noted the countdown clock continues to countdown to our next August 2015 PIRC Reunion that was originally scheduled for 2014 during our 2011 reunion. It gave me pause to reflect on the activities of our PIRC family last August 14, 15, & 16.
We had a closed casket 4-7 pm visitation at the Pruzin Funeral home for our Aunt Nancy; open till 4pm for family. I had gone in early for some private quiet time. I then got up to start greeting out of town family members. Early on, it was a slam dunk, that Uncle Dave would be there. News was delayed to Uncle Joe and family since they were out of the country, but eventually heard that they were on their way. As I started to greet local family, in walks Uncle Dave; a very emotional moment. And not long after in came Uncle Joe and family, 5 in all. Another emotional and comforting moment. Until then we hadn’t heard from Uncle Titus, but knew in my heart he would be there for us. As I was visiting, I found myself getting an on the fly shoulder adjustment. Could it be…yes, the Dr. had arrived. I remember this warm sensation of completeness; all my brothers were there; I was going to be OK.
During the week of preparations I got the distinct impression that the funeral director was tactfully trying to lower our expectations. But with 31 family members, some extended family members and as many friends, the funeral home was abuzz all they way up to the end of visiting hours. What a tribute by the family and to the family. After we thanked the friends, hinting that it was time to call l it an evening, we decided to meet at the Radisson for a bite and some personal family time. The food was lacking but the moment was sweet as my three brothers and I sat together at our own table. And thus was born, as someone pointed to us exclaiming, “THE LEGEND”.
For me the wake proved to be a breathe between the preparations for burial and the burial ceremony. I remember quite well events of the evening before but very little of the burial itself the next day. I do remember the warm touches from surrounding family but not a word from the presiding minister. I do remember as we got back to the KH being greeted by the friends and some of the funeral talk itself and of course Nancy’s favorite Kingdom song: “He Will Call”. It was rough and stll gets to me when ever I hear it. From then on I remember the evening very well calling it Aunt Nancy’s last banquet.
So what does this have to do with the countdown clock? And what is it about August 14, 15, & 16 that rings a bell.
It’s been 8 months now and after 5 months I finally checked the PIRC archives. Sure enough, those were the dates of our first PIRC reunion, and how poetic that it was Aunt Nancy that put together it’s first banquet.
In view of the great sacrifices put forth by family members coming from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Kansas, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida and Illinois, as your Chairman Secretary, we will designate August 14, 15, & 16 as “Aunt Nancy’s Last Banquet” PIRC reunion 2014.
The clock will be set for 2017. Later this year Uncle Dave and I will be meeting with Aunt Priss at her villa in TN to discuss the matter.
Your loving Uncle, Dad, Cousin, Brother, Brother-in-law, Papoo, and double Papoo, UNCLE TONY
PAST NEWS
PIRC 