In Memory of Lisa Boothman
I met Charles many years ago when he joined the local Professional Celebrant Network Support group here on the mid north coast. He retired a few years ago to spend more time with his wife, Lisa.
It was very sad when he called to let me know Lisa had died.
Charles had chosen a few songs and as we had one extra and he couldn’t decide which one to let go I suggested we play Suzi Quatro—Singing with Angels as guests were being seated and then I would step forward for the opening song and introduce it to family and friends. I suggested we offer the guests a translation of the German lyrics.
Opening music
Welcome family and friends, Charles has chosen the opening song by Vicky Leandros, Dann Kamst Du. As the lyrics are in German Charles has requested that I share the English translation with you before we start.
Then you came, and you were the love
A love for a whole life
Never before, never before I wanted to believe
There ever would be such a thing for me
Then you came and I’ve forever
I’ve forever given you my heart
Dann Kamst Du
The family asked me to read Lisa’s eulogy and afterwards Charles read this poem as his tribute.
Her Smile – Author Unknown
Though her smile is gone forever
and her hand I cannot touch
I still have so many memories
Of the one I loved so much.
Her memory is now my keepsake
Which with I’ll never part.
God has her in her keeping
I have her in my heart.
Sadly missed, but never forgotten.
After the laying of rosemary sprigs on her casket I closed the ceremony:
“The family will miss many treasured moments and Lisa’s quirky ways. They will also miss the ordinary moments of Lisa sitting curled up on the lounge with her iPad playing games, reading a New Idea or drinking a glass of wine.
The writer, Elizabeth Edwards said, If you know someone who has lost someone close, and you’re afraid to mention them because you think you might make them sad by reminding them that they died—you’re not reminding them. They didn’t forget they died. What you’re reminding them of is that you remembered that they lived, and …that is a great gift. So, the invitation is to speak Lisa’s name and tell her stories…
In that light, the family would like to extend a warm welcome to join them for light refreshments at…
Lisa was a big personality, full of life and colour. She’d probably be saying to you now, in German, ‘Come on, enough fuss. Get on with it. Go and reminisce and celebrate.’ So, I hope you will join the family afterwards.”
I am very sad to hear the news of Lisa’s passing. We had many fine evenings, together with Charles, dining in the lounge of a good Coffs Harbour restaurant. Lots of good times and happy memories. RIP Lisa and thankyou for your kindness and friendship over the years.
Graeme Jarman and Dianne Storer.