Goodbye Grandma Bunt

We received news on saturday that Bill's grandmother had passed away. Grandma Bunt had struggled with alzheimers and a host of other health problems in the last few years. So on one level, as when anyone passes away that has struggled with illness and pain, it is a relief. But, it leaves the family with a gaping hole. Grandma Bunt was an incredible woman. I always felt loved and welcomed by her.
We both instantly felt like a safe had been dropped on our heads when we heard the news. We saw it coming for a while, but I guess you are never really prepared for death. We went over to see Grandpa at the retirement home in Cupertino. The poor thing looked so so tired. He was surrounded by his family and he definitely took some solace in that. There were moments, glimmers when you could see he was trying to fathom what had happened. He would just say over and over, "I just can't believe it." He has lost his soulmate, his sweetheart. They were married just after world war II. I can't imagine what he must be feeling, to lose someone that has been with you through it all for so long. She was such a neat lady. Always content to be the support structure but always so happy to have her family nearby and all the joy that they have brought her.
Bill's mom and uncle were busy making preparations for the rosary and funeral this week so we tried to stay with grandpa as much as we could.
Bill seems ok. He said that strangely, having Callie around made him feel a little better about it. Like, her presence is a reminder that the wheel is always coming around again. I know that we haven't really processed the fact that she is gone. Its just been a whirlwind of craziness, added to an already crazy time of year.
Christmas is definitely going to be strange. I just can't believe I won't see Grandma snuggled up on the couch next to grandpa as they watch all the kids open presents. You will definitely be missed Grandma. I am so glad my daughter got to meet you, I'm just sorry we didn't have more time together.