Bobby

Today there was a mix of emotions. It was the funeral and memorial service of an old friend... The Rev Robert Gemmell or as he was known to his friends, Bobby or simply Bob.

Bob and his wife Marion lived just around the corner from where I stay and it was great to be able to pop round now and again either to catch up with them for a blether or as more often or not, it was a result of Marion asking for a wee bit of help to get something "fixed", which I was more than happy to oblige.

Bob had a heart attack about a year ago and his recovery was good. However he was subsequently diagnosed with cancer and it was this that he eventually succumbed too.

The service at the crem was good, but the memorial service at the church afterwards was really uplifting.

There were tears, smiles, laughter and memories as not only his daughter but the assistant minister of the local parish church recalled the life and times of Robert Gemmell

One striking event occurred when the palliative care team were at his home and asked a potentially awkward question regarding whether he would wanted resuscitated or not... His answer was a definitive NO!!

Why, because of his firm belief that when he died, he was simply "going home".

As a Christian his and my belief is that this life is not all there is. When we die we have an assurance of an eternal life spent in heaven with our Saviour Jesus Christ and not because we have been "good" or not but because we simply trust in Him and all that He has done for us.

Bob will be missed by many folk but especially his family and his dearly beloved wife, Marion.

I'll miss him too... Us blethering about "The Rangers", then being a tad grumpy about all sorts, to going on and discussing aspects of our shared Faith.

Enjoy your time in Heaven Bob and hopefully I can join you there one day soon!!

Until then I'll raise a glass to you my old friend!!