The obituary notice of Donald WALSHE

What hallows ground where heroes sleep?
‘Tis not the sculptured piles you heap!
In dews that heavens far distant weep
Their turf may bloom;
Or Genii twine beneath the deep
Their coral tomb.

But strew his ashes to the wind
Whose sword or voice has served mankind,
And is he dead, whose glorious mind
Lifts thine on high?—
To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die.

- Thomas Campbell

(Hallowed Ground - an excerpt)

Two years on... 🕊

Rest in power, Don. 🌹

It is two years to the day since you left this Earth. Your commitment, humanitarianism and compassion for all the downtrodden peoples around the World, especially the plight of the Palestinian people, was truly touching. You are always in my thoughts.

"I will see you again. But not yet. Not yet."

In the late evening of August 12th, 2024, I stopped to admire a fiery sunset over Manchester's Wythenshawe.

I was to soon learn that it was the day you had passed; surrounded by your loved ones in a London hospice.

One year on, you're still very much in my thoughts. But it's all good.

As I fondly reminisce about all the good times we had together.

Fly high, Don. Fly high. 🕊

Time passes so quickly -- it is already a year since you've been gone. Miss you so much.

Nothing can ever fill the gap you left, but knowing you’re at peace eases it a bit. Sending my warmest wishes to the sky above.

Happy 74th birthday, Don. I will be thinking of you on this very special day. 🍰

After a short period of uncertainty, my worst fears were confirmed by a kind member of your dear family. That you had passed away peacefully, and while surrounded by your loved ones.

Just before I left London behind for a fresh start in Manchester, you told me that you were feeling fatigued, and for some weeks too. But yet you remained hopeful of making a full recovery. I am sorry I could not have been there for you. And had the chance to say a proper goodbye. But fate was to choose otherwise, sadly.

Since then, I have taken time to fondly reflect on our twenty-eight-plus years of friendship. We had our ups and downs, of course, but we were always there for each other when it mattered.

So thank you, Don. Thank you for everything. I know you were a committed atheist; yet nevertheless, I do hope we will meet again someday. On some higher plain of existence, or up amongst the silver clouds. I'll let you choose the rendezvous!

You truly meant the world to me. And I don't often admit my innermost feelings to those that matter; being so reserved. But I do know that you knew. And that's all that really matters, I guess.

I shall miss your witty insights, the long chats and wise councel.

Rest easy, my friend. 💐