Sunday, July 11, 2010
Dear Joan,
Aunt Edie called me this morning to wish me a happy birthday, and she told me the sad news of Ernie’s passing. I just wanted to send you, Ernie Jr., Celeste, and Joseph my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences. It’s funny the memories that are conjured up by this kind of news. I immediately remembered and pictured you and Ernie as a beautiful young couple in your parent’s apartment in Flushing, and it might have been the same night (or close to it) that you became engaged. I was probably 7 or 8 and was spending the night because of my parents having yet another argument at home. You and Ernie came in, and to me you were the picture of young love, and represented a future of romance with endless possibilities. This was wonderful medicine for a confused and upset young mind, and I just wanted to say Joan that you and Ernie will always hold that special place in my memory of romance and a future with endless possibilities.
I once read that when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Richard
