i assume you're flying high
up there, rubbing shoulders
with the bravest of the boys
and recounting glory days.
we know you as you always are:
we cannot hear your stories
but we're proud of the way
you're out on your expeditions again.
we know you're back on your feet
up there and back with your wife,
both of you individuals to the last;
hours apart and never closer.
but look out for us: the puzzle pieces
you took great care over.
and we'll watch out for you too.
quiet kind and keen mind,
your duty is done. fly high,
in a love lived on.
goodnight, granddad ray.
there's a chair fit for a hero waiting just for you.
15/06/1932 – 08/01/2019
image: richard r. schunemann.
