Dear all,

sadly Anthony lost his wife Cherie yesterday, to a long term illness. He had been in and out of hospital with her for a long time now, and she wasn't expected to last, but she hung in there as long as she could.

Anthony, at least the torment of knowing it was coming is over. Cherie is free of struggle, and the grief and devastation have a purpose in honouring how much you profoundly love and cared for her. We're thinking of you.

All sympathy for your pain.

And we never knew. Anthony, I am so sorry. I've enjoyed reading your posts and seen your pictures, through which I've gained a good understanding of you, not only as a lily grower but as a friend of strong posture. I feel I understand you--and I like your ways. I understand your way of thinking in life. Anthony, you will see your way through this emotional time and there will be tomorrows. Time does heal.

Lorn and Carol

Condolences from my family to you and yours

I am so sorry, Anthony.

Anthony, my condolences to you and your family. As Lorn says, time does heal. Know that you are an important member of our lily family and we are here for you.

Wow. I'm so sorry to hear this. I can't imagine a loss that great but rest assured, that she is in a better place. Anthony was the first person that was kind enough to send me a card (chock full of seeds) from the land down under. In less than a years time I've known Anthony to be a kind, generous, and very funny guy. I wish his family my condolences in this trying time. Anthony, if there is anything I can do for you feel free to ask. - Joe

I'm so very sorry of learn of your loss, Anthony. Please know that your internet family cares deeply about you and wish you our most heartfelt condonences.

Thank you, great friends.. Tough going at the moment.. but I will not let you down this Summer.. All preparation still doesn't prepare you for the worst. We read little hints and signs from the patient, but nothing makes sense ,til the latter. My wife, although she could only 'nod' gave me the 'OK' to leave the hospital , and be sure her late Mums pet Cockatoo[55yo] was put to bed safely. 15 minutes after I drove away - she died. She spoke to a friend in her last gasp ' take care of him'..Fate is strange .. when her Mum died , it took a big chunk of both of us.. I still ponder.. - But that's good isn't it?-- ..Please treasure your loved ones as if today is the last day, Never get angry, Put your own pain and feelings aside and suffer as a last resort. Treasure what you still have left[ Alison -30 yo baby girl and Molly 5yo grand baby girl] .. My birds/ and all of our memories. Im not yet 50 but I feel about 105.... Thank you - Anthony

I am sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you during these difficult times.
May the memories of your wife help you find peace.

Can only add my condolences (so inadequate to the feelings we hold for you) to others. I appreciate your heart felt words about your wife and experience. Things we should all remember and hold dear. As we each battle our own fears and uncertainties about the future I will remember and try to follow your words and example of strength.

Anthony, may memories of your love bring you peace now and moving forward. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Words are so in adequate but please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss.

Anthony, so sorry to hear of your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.

So sorry about your loss Tony.

Accept my sincerest condolences.

John

gwhizz said:

Those are words to live by, Anthony. And of course (!) it's a good thing to still ponder! When the time is right, you'll let go, but still hold those wonderful memories so dearly. We all wish we could each take a piece of your hurt away, and please know that our hearts are with you.

P.S. I still love Taz .....
Thank you!

Rick , you've made me laugh, at the strangest of moments[Big Taz]- Thanks Mate... And thanks everybody for the kind words!..Im taking a long time off work .. I havnt had a holiday since '95...and Im beat!

So glad you're taking a break. Hope you have all the time you need.

So sorry to hear this Anthony, take a good rest, the departed are not dead as long as they live in our hearts.

Anthony, so sorry to hear this. You have a big loving family here, and I hope that will help.

Please take care of yourself.

My condolences, Polly