Dear Toronto Maple Leafs,
This relationship is wearing me out.
Dear Ween,
Make with a new album already.
Dear BBQ,
You've done a great job feeding me over the past week.
Dear Kanina,
Thanks for giving me your BBQ.
Dear iPod,
How did you get so awesome?
Dear Spring,
Well, it's your cue. Do something!
Dear Ontario,
The beer you sell is getting too expensive.
Dear Thailand,
Your food is amazing.
Dear Tool,
Please play Winnipeg on your North American tour later this year.
Dear The Weather Network,
Thanks for everything over the past four years.
Dear CBC Winnipeg,
Thanks for the new job!
Dear Toronto,
I'll miss you!
Love,
Waub
Rarely in life do you cross paths with someone who can leave such a huge mark on yours in such little doses and in such a short time. Kearnesy was one of those people. I only knew him for about 7 years, and we only got to hang out a few times a year. But they were nothing but fun, exciting, and happy times. I had the pleasure of getting to know him through his son Terry, one of my best friends whom I met during the Ryerson years. Kearnesy Jr. had nothing but glowing accolades for his old man, and I really couldn't wait to meet him.
What followed were truly amazing memories in a variety of circumstances. Concerts in Toronto. Hockey games in Ottawa. Parties at the Big Apple. And of course, trips up to Lakefield for all kinds of get-togethers. It was a place I had never been before, but from my first moment there I felt at home. All thanks to the loving and kind Kearnes family and their genuinely friendly circles.
Kearnesy was an inspiration. He loved life, and it showed. He was devoted to making the most out of it, whether it be at work, on his bike, seeing bands, or just enjoying the weekend routine. Just being around him would make you smile. It was a powerful combination of kindness, sincerity, and a unique wit. And his love for his wife Lynda also inspired. During these times of the crumbling marriages, the life they shared together will always be a model.
He passed away suddenly last week. It was obviously a shock to everyone who knew him, and a huge loss (especially to his wife and son). He may have gone way too early, but I take solace in the fact that he probably had no regrets at all, having accomplished a great deal more than most others. There need to be more people like Dan - keeping an always positive face in these increasingly troubling times, and continually inspiring happiness in those around them.
May you rest in peace forever, Kearnesy. As Terry said at your memorial, “it was an honour to know the man.”