Bob’s family, chose the evocative track of music O Mio Babbino Caro sung by Andre Rieu and Amira Willighagen as the opening song for the Celebration of the Life of Marius Laurentius Gimbergh, who was lovingly known as Bob.
I conducted the funeral and graveside ceremony for Bob’s beloved wife, Ria, nearly two years ago. They wanted the same elements woven throughout this ceremony. They chose two different readings.
There are so many words
I could try to say to you
to let you know
how much you mean to me,
but really
the two most important feelings
I want you to know are.
“Thank you?
for all your love,
and
“I love you”
with all my heart.
A limb has fallen from our family tree
I keep hearing a voice that says,
“Grieve not for me
Remember the best times,
the laughter, the song.
The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage I’m counting on you.
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease, my soul at rest,
Remembering all how I truly was blessed.
Continue traditions no matter how small
Go on with your life, don’t just stare at the wall.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin
Until the day comes we’re together again.
We celebrate and give thanks for Bob’s precious life. Bob’s smile, his love and care were contagious. He was kind, resilient, resourceful and funny! May you feel inspired by Bob’s way of being in the world.