Auntie Merle 1919-2010

Auntie Merle's memorial service was held on the day of her 91st birthday, September 25th. She was one of my mum's older sisters and the last of the 4 Beames sisters - now that generation have all passed.

Auntie Merle has always been a part of my life and we had regular get-togethers until our relocation to the US four years ago. She leaves us with some wonderful memories - her geneosity, her hospitality and her always smiling face - we are so grateful to have had her in our lives. Her goal was to live to the ripe old age of 98 - so close........

Bye Bye Auntie Merle

With happy memories love Julie, John, Josh & Blake

Thanks to cousin Shelda for the following tribute poem -

Ode to Merle

Merle, you were a beam of light,

a ray of laughter, ever jolly and bright,

you filled a home with happiness and joy

a natural gift, certainy no ploy.

Our memoris are vivid, full of colour and life,

rumpus room parties were certainly rife,

with tea towels hanging on the walls, so rare,

and gourmet delights, prolific, open fare.

George, your husband, forever devoted,

was there, supportive and always noted,

you relished travel to far, exotic places,

and cruised the seas, befriended new faces.

An avid collector, a Beames family trait,

your house was adorned, in a chaotic state,

with birds, Toby jugs and leadlight regalia,

trying to give it all up was definitely a failure!

And then there was your kitchen so blue,

where meals were prepared for many a do,

you cooked a mean roast with all the trimmings,

and your strawberry cream sponges had everyone grinning!

At Easter your rabbits were renowned far and wide,

indeed, those marshmallow delights multiplied,

every year there were bunnies, bunnies galore,

and people came knocking at all hours for more.

You certainly loved a birthday celebration,

with rellies and friends, group hugs, what elation -

and now we celebrate your 91 years,

your kindness, good humour, there's even a few tears.

But we thank you, Merle, for your love and your care,

your rollicking laugh still rings in the air,

we'll cherish the memories and continue to hold,

your radiant smile, your heart of gold.