My deepest condolences to Susie, Taylor and Britany.  I can say I really knew Neil Gunn.  He and I worked together at Brant Securities.  I knew close up, how he looked after his clients.  If that meant buying groceries, or cutting a lawn, Neil did it will a joyful spirit.

It wasn't hard to know he struggled with his health.  Many times I did his trades when his blood sugar was off.  I saw him take his insulin every day before going to lunch and having a glass of wine.  Many times it was me sitting across the table from him having a home made lunch at the French restaurant.  We talked about everything under the sun.  He loved his family and those grandbabies.  It was like a fresh beginning for him as they welcomed the wee treasures.

Neil and I shared some of the funniest stories of his life.  One was the Cremation of an RCYC pal.  They had all gone out in the boat at lunch to disburse the ashes.  You would think they had thought about which way the wind was blowing.  They tossed the ashes over the side, only to have the wind blow them back on board and into their faces.  He just laughed.

Though working in securities is a tough business for women, Neil appreciated my credentials.  He knew I was worth more, but sadly, I had to move on.  I didn't particularily want to do that to Neil because we really were a team.  But we stayed good friends.  I would ask about his family and most of all his health.  I worried that perhaps he might leave us early and, he did.  I spoke to Neil on his last day at Brant. It was a mere fluke that I caught him.  He briefly told me what was going on and I felt my heart break.  I know he planned on travelling.  Better late than never.  I hope he and his wife enjoyed those times.  They will be great memories.

So, now and again I think of my friend.  I went back to school and became a grief counselor.  He would really identify with that choice.  There were days on the stock market that he left with a heavy heart but also a plan to keep his clients money secure.....and he did.....a great job well done.

He called death the "big sleep".  We would both laugh like children and I would get dirty looks from the bosses.  It was worth it all.  I hope and pray that Neil is having a good sleep.  He desrves a rest. For so many years, he worked really hard.  Brant was good to him.  He could be himself there and would make everyone laugh.  That was Neil.

Maybe one day, I will meet up with him again.  Wouldn't that be a wonderful gift.  God is exceedingly good.  For now my friend...sleep well.

From a friend, colleague and distant relative through Laura Secord...Yours as always....Di