Georgia Fiero Club Forum

General Discussion and Announcements => General Discussion => Topic started by: Fierofool on March 27, 2018, 06:54:31 pm

Title: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on March 27, 2018, 06:54:31 pm
Late last night my Beloved Melanie's battles came to an end.  Through all the years of suffering, she was a trooper.  A fighter.  A spirit that I looked up to.  She gave me strength and purpose.

We have enjoyed almost 49 years together as husband and wife, but most of all, I treasure the last 12 years.  That is because, in January 2006, we were told she only had 6 months to live.  I hoped they were wrong.  She proved they were wrong. 

With Strength, Faith and Resolve, she fought.  She didn't complain.  She never thought of herself as sick.  She was always more concerned with my health and the well-being of our family, putting her own frailties and needs out of mind.  She continued to do as much within the household as possible.  It was her desire.  She had said that if she ever sat down and quit trying, she was doomed.

In the last week, she needed full assistance and support to move around the house, due to having slipped off the bed, breaking her foot and nose.  She could only walk using a cane and household items or my hand for support, but yesterday morning, she grabbed her oxygen cart and her cane and began moving about the house. 

I know she was in pain and struggling, but her Faith gave her strength.  Her Faith gave me strength and led me to Christ.  Now, she is with Him as her reward.

Funeral arrangements by:

Tim Stewart Funeral Home
300 Simonton Rd SW,
 Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Viewing Friday, March 30, 5 PM to 8 PM

Services:

Sharon Baptist Church
1059 Dee Kennedy Rd,
Auburn, GA 30011

March 31, 1 PM

Internment:

White Chapel Memorial Gardens
1832 Pleasant Hill Rd,
Duluth, GA 30096
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 27, 2018, 07:02:19 pm
My condolences.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: pgackerman on March 27, 2018, 07:12:46 pm

Prayers and thoughts with you and her.

Do you need anything?
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: scottb on March 27, 2018, 08:04:19 pm
My deepest condolences Charlie
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 27, 2018, 08:24:36 pm
I'm still trying to come to terms with this.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GrannyLinda on March 27, 2018, 08:36:36 pm
Do You Need Pall Bearers ?
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Tha Driver on March 27, 2018, 08:51:09 pm
I don't know what to say, plus it's hard to type through the tears...
Peace be with you, Charlie.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Sarge on March 27, 2018, 08:59:10 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

David
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 27, 2018, 08:59:57 pm
Hey, Sarge!  I was starting to get worried about you.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Raydar on March 27, 2018, 09:12:21 pm
As always, y'all are in my prayers. I send my condolences to all who know and love her.
I've been following Melissa's posts on FB. Please give her a hug for me. 
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on March 27, 2018, 09:13:29 pm
Do You Need Pall Bearers ?

Yes.  I have 3 so far.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: MikeMac on March 27, 2018, 09:25:03 pm
Charlie, when I spoke to you on the phone earlier I knew something was wrong even  before you told me the terrible news. The grief you are experiencing obviously came through in your voice. I'm not a highly emotional person but I had to step away for a few minutes and collect myself after talking to you.

Mel was blessed that she had you to stand by her side through every moment of her illness. You are an example to all of us.
My condolences.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: TopNotch on March 27, 2018, 09:43:22 pm
Melanie's smile was the highlight of every club party or picnic that she attended. She will be missed.
I would be honored to serve as a pall bearer.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: oldone on March 27, 2018, 11:42:51 pm
my condolences Charlie to you and your family.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: HarryT on March 28, 2018, 01:40:46 am
Charlie;
You and your family are in our thoughts and we send our heartfelt sympathy to all of you.
We are so sorry for your loss;
Harry and Karin
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: f85gtron on March 28, 2018, 06:58:21 am
Charlie,
I'm sorry to hear this. My thoughts are with you.
Ron
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Slyp on March 28, 2018, 01:41:41 pm
Charlie,
I am very sorry to hear about Melanie.  I had met her several time at the lunchs.  Rosalee and myself are praying for you and youir family. 

Bob
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on March 28, 2018, 11:00:05 pm
I want to apologize to those of you who have emailed, texted, or left voice mails and haven't gotten a response.  I am inundated with communications from people who cared so much for Melanie.  I promise, I am monitoring this thread and saving all other communications and I will respond to all as soon as I can regain a little strength.

Thank you all for your prayers, thoughts and love for her.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTXVette on March 29, 2018, 08:19:09 am
 Of the Wonderful Things you Gained from Mel's Strength, Your strength gave her Cause to carry On for Years Past what was Diagnosed,
 I would be Sure God's Plan Includes Happiness In your Future.

  Call On me as A Brother If you need me.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 29, 2018, 07:21:44 pm
In a manner of speaking, my start here (http://www.gafiero.org/bbs/index.php?topic=2431) involved Melanie.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 29, 2018, 09:49:05 pm
If this is inappropriate here, let me know.  I wrote this for Fierofool, combining his words and the words of others.



My Melanie

Guide. Friend. Companion. Wife. Mother.
Many the words to describe her.

Faith. Strength. Fortitude. Forbearance.
Many the attributes she possesses.

Many the smiles on others bestow;
Many the endearments by which is known.

The meaning of time is made clear;
As we get old, becomes more dear.

She bid her friends a long farewell
'Till at last answered God's bell.

Her pain ended; she has left this space.
Her soul awaits in a better place.

In Holy Week, her last Earthly breath did take;
Now among the angels, in Heaven to partake.

So many lives touched from the start
Gotta love her, so much heart.

Friends last a lifetime;
Love lasts an enernity.

She. My. Melanie.


I think this is how I'll remember her.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: fiero128 on March 30, 2018, 06:13:17 am
Our deepest condolences Charlie
from Both Julie and Allen here in Western Sydney Australia
julie and myself both know her spirit will be with you for the rest if your life.
This a shock to both of us
we both are speechless
So sorry to hear of her passing
Rest in piece melanie
 
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on March 31, 2018, 04:58:45 pm
Having catfish fillet for supper tonight.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on April 03, 2018, 02:43:53 pm
My family and I want to thank all of you for your tremendous outpouring of prayer, support, aid, and assistance.  So many cards and flowers and gracing my family with your presence and friendship. 

The Fiero Community, in my opinion, isn't just about our little plastic fire trap cars.  It seems to attract a special kind of caring and loving people.  I am truly blessed that I know so many of them. 

A more personal thank you will be forthcoming. 
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on April 29, 2018, 04:58:03 pm
This Wednesday, May 2, we are celebrating My Melanie's Birthday.

The time is 7PM 

The place is Monterrey Mexican Restaurant
5745 Old Winder Hwy, (Hwy 211)
Suite A, Braselton, GA 30517-1636 

Chateau Elan/Winder exit 126. 
If Northbound on I-85, turn left at end of exit.  The restaurant is on the right just past the 4th traffic light which is at Friendship Road.  If Southbound on I-85, deduct 1 traffic light. 

All are invited to attend.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 02, 2018, 10:04:39 pm
In my absence, I offer this quote by Lin Bingwen, who died of cancer at the age of 61:

Quote
Don't leave good things to special days to use!! Life is really fragile, & life & death are bound to fail. Even Apple's Steve Jobs was powerless in the face of illness!

Many years ago, one of my classmates, his wife just passed away. He told me: "When I was going through my wife's relics, I found a silk scarf that was bought in a branded name shop when we were traveling to New York.  It was an elegant & beautiful designer scarf. The high price tag was still on the top. His wife had been reluctant to use it. She wanted to wait for a special day."

Speaking of this, he stopped & I didn't answer. After a while, he continued: "Never again use good things for special days. Every day you live is a special day."
       
Later, whenever I think of these words, I often put down the chore in my hand, find a novel, turn on the sound, lay on the couch, & grab some of my own time.

I would admire the scenery of the Tamsui River from the floor-to-ceiling windows, & would not take care of the dust on the glass.

I would take my family out to eat. Life should be an experience we cherish, not a day of hard work.

I shared this conversation with a woman. Later, when she met me, she told me that she did not put beautiful porcelain utensils in the wine cabinet as she did before.

In the past, she also thought that she would leave it for special days until she found out that day had never arrived.

"Future" & "sometimes" no longer exist in her dictionary. If there is anything to be pleased with, she will hear it now & she will see it.

We often want to get together with old friends, but always say "find opportunity".

We often want to embrace children who have grown up, but always wait for the right time.

We often want to write to the other half to express a strong affection, or want him /her to know that you admire him/ her, but you always tell yourself not to be anxious & then forget about it.

In fact, every morning when we open our eyes, we must tell ourselves that this is a special day. Every day, every minute is so valuable.

[1] Don't always work under pressure, & tire yourself!

[2] Do not forget that the body is everything. No health, cannot enjoy all the fun of life.

[3] Do not think that it is the doctor who can save lives. It is actually your own & health is more important than life-saving.

[4] Don't think that there is a reward for paying, & all things can only be rewarded if you don't account for returns.

[5] Do not ignore those who are with you, & wait for the pros & cons.

Let it go! Enjoy life slowly & enjoy every day of your life!
       
After reading this essay, share with your family & friends! You may change many people!

*Thank you, it's good to have you!*
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on May 03, 2018, 03:11:02 pm
A wonderful celebration, last night.  More than 20 family, friends, Fiero and church people came.  I and my daughter thank each and every one of you.  We plan on doing this every year, so if you couldn't make it this time, put it in your calendar for May 2, 2019. 
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 03, 2018, 06:21:27 pm
is 5/2 the actual birthday?
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on May 03, 2018, 07:44:45 pm
Yes.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 03, 2018, 07:47:40 pm
Cool.  Nothing shows esteem like showing up for events like this honoring someone.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Drewbdo on May 08, 2018, 01:02:53 pm
Charlie,

I'm sorry to hear about your loss.  :'(

I'm sure you and your daughter will have many special memories to look back on in the days ahead. I'll be praying for you during this time.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on May 14, 2018, 10:04:12 am
On Mother's Day, outside the windows where Melanie spent her days.




Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 14, 2018, 06:50:55 pm
Nice, but what is the blue funnel on the pole?
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Slyp on May 14, 2018, 06:58:22 pm
I guess you dont feed birds in your backyard.  That a shield so the birds get the seed and not the squirrles
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 14, 2018, 07:10:57 pm
My kids put bird seed all over the picnic table, which didn't make me happy.  We used to have a hummingbird feeder and a purple martin house, and a thing with suet in it.  We get owls, hawks, goldfinches, various swallows, cardinals, and some other birds.  No bluejays, pidgeons, or crows.

The dog kills the squirrels and the rabbits.  And the moles.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on May 14, 2018, 07:58:10 pm
Yes, it's a squirrel guard of sorts.  It wasn't really effective as the squirrels would manage to climb the post and get around the funnel.  Then they would lift the roof off the feeder and sit inside and eat the seed.  Ray solved the problem of them climbing the post by giving it a good coating of black wheel bearing grease.  That stuff just won't melt away in the sun. 

Then I caught a squirrel sitting in the feeder again and couldn't figure how he managed to get up the pole.  When I went out to shoo him away, I noticed his little black footprints.  You see, inside that bunch of lilies is a big flower pot about 2 1/12 feet high.  It is the origin of all these lilies, having had just 1 planted in it from a potted plant from a funeral. 

Anyway, there were little black footprints all over the lip of that flower pot.  The squirrel found that he couldn't climb the greased pole, so he got on the flower pot and jumped.  But we don't have problems with squirrels anymore since a black Tom Cat took up with Ray.  He hides in the lilies or irises or daffodils, whichever is in season and waits for the squirrels to come to him.  Once the flowers are gone, he hides in the fire bushes you see along the left.  Sometimes he gets a meal he doesn't have to fight when doves walk in to eat the seeds that fall on the ground.

The feeder was placed there for Melanie to enjoy her beloved Cardinals.  Sometimes there would be a dozen or more sitting in the cherry tree, awaiting their turn at the feeder. 
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 14, 2018, 08:39:21 pm
Lots of animals don't bother me:

I need one for the front yard.

My flowers are wilting, but the weeds are growing.


Actually, my yard is growing like a chia-pet.  I have to mow twice a week.

I don't know what happened the the iris, the hyacinth, the hydrangea, or the dwarf burning bush.  The daffodils and tulips are done for the year.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: GTRS Fiero on April 11, 2019, 10:07:27 pm
A wonderful celebration, last night.  More than 20 family, friends, Fiero and church people came.  I and my daughter thank each and every one of you.  We plan on doing this every year, so if you couldn't make it this time, put it in your calendar for May 2, 2019.

Or May 4th.
Title: Re: My Melanie
Post by: Fierofool on April 12, 2019, 08:45:10 am
Yes.  This year we will be celebrating her birthday on Saturday, May 4. 

The Iris's are about to go away and the Lilies are about to come into bloom.