Vale Beloved Peter Geddes

Dear Peter,

We talked about this moment, and now you have gone before us. I have no doubt that you are well and at peace, maybe even documenting the journey along the way, though I suspect that there is no need to take pictures anymore.

My tears are for Willa, your beloved companion, who you married 24 years ago on the 9th June. At the celebration of your life, as I began to speak about your wedding, I choked up. I had to look to the ground, take a deep breath, and steady myself to express my love and care for her. Farewell my dear friend, fare well. I will miss our engaging conversations, your unwavering curiosity and your beaming smile when we met. I love you dear friend.

This is just some of what I wrote as I conducted Peter’s Celebration of his Life last week.

Words leading into the reflection:

“Peter was a lover of beauty, a seeker of truth and a rolling stone with a heart full of vision, he moved through the world with wide eyes and an open mind. He was never afraid of change – he embraced it, sought it, and believed in a better world, always looking for the next horizon. Peter approached life with reverence and ritual, a quiet joy in the moment, and a camera never far from reach.

Above all, Peter was a communicator, always sharing, sometimes forgetting to listen, but always tuned into the world.

He taught, not with instruction, but by the way he noticed beauty: the golden light of a sunset, the smell of good food, the sound of the surf rolling in, and even a beautiful new motorbike. He was both grounded and idealistic, disciplined and adventurous. And while he could be grumpy and critical at times, he always carried with him a vision of a more wonderful, more connected world.

Peter passed away on Friday 6th June, surrounded by his family, by those who loved him.

As we say farewell to Peter, we recognise that you, Willa, will miss your beloved companion and life partner. At your wedding 24 years ago, you both chose the poem On Marriage by Kahlil Gibran. “Give your hearts, but not into each other’s keeping. For only the hands of Life can contain your hearts.” These words held meaning for you both in your marriage, and they hold meaning now, as you come to say farewell, his heart still resting in Life’s keeping.

To Willa and all his family, we offer you our love.  May you feel Peter’s love hold you close as you walk through the grief, and may you be supported in the months and years ahead as you find your way in life without his physical presence by your side. May you feel held by your community of family and friends.

Shortly, Peter’s body will be cremated.

Let us listen to the song, Far Away Home by Archie Roach, while we take a moment to reflect on his life and say farewell. You may wish to offer a silent prayer or blessing at this time.”

Pictures downloaded from the internet. Photographers unknown to me… please do advise if known.