Farewell to 2 Amazing Friends...

Whether it's expected or if it comes suddenly as it did with the loss of 2 dear friends this month, it's never easy to say good bye regardless of the circumstances.  What these two dear friends had in common was the love and admiration of so many family and friends that surrounded them and their selfless love and compassion for all whom they knew.

John "Bub" Harris

Nov 15, 1926 - Dec 2, 2010

 After the memorial service attended by about 500, friends and family met together at the Julia Leffreing House, in Rancho SD

John Harris was a dear friend, husband, father, and grandfather.  I so feel for their families, especially our dear Valerie who was his best friend and wife for almost 60 years. Together they had 4 children, 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.  John's memorial service was on December 18, just one day after what would have been their 60th Wedding Anniversary.  John always brought a smile to your face and heart.  He was known for his humor and sincere friendship to all whom he knew. He always told the best stories and experiences, and for that he will be dearly missed.  Earlier this year, I had recorded John playing and laughing with his great granddaughter Piper when they came to visit.  Here is a few pictures I took with the audio I recorded.

Alicia Aguirre

March 28, 1939 to December 15, 2010

Alicia was another special friend who was so dearly loved by all of her family and friends.  Alicia was married to her best friend and husband for 54 years.  Together they had 9 children, 20 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.  I had the honor of taking their last family photo on December 4, 2010.  It was a very special moment for me to be able to capture that moment for the entire family to cherish for many years to come.  My heart also goes out to her husband and family as they mourn the loss of their best friend, wife, mother and grandmother. Over 400 family and friends came together on the evening of December 21, at Calipatria, CA, a small town in Imperial Valley, with just 1 stop light. It was so amazing to see so many come to celebrate her life and to show support to her family.  Alicia was known for her compassion and love for all whom she met,  and especially for her famous hand made tortillas.  She will be remembered for her strength and courage in the midst of health challenges that she faced with dignity. 

Thank you for stopping by and remembering these dear friends. They will be truly missed.