I was saddened to hear the news of the loss of Gary and my thoughts are with his family and friends.
Like a lot of people here I mainly knew him from his posts online, and meeting at events like Berlin and Amsterdam. Last seeing him for a few social beers in London before a bar camp he was attending. I was looking forward to seeing him in Cambridge sometime soon.
He was the type of person that it would be hard not to like, enthusiastic, kind, honestly self-depreciating. So much so -- he was actually surprised at the level of support he got from the community that allowed him to attend Amsterdam.
I originally met him at Berlin by speaking in the same block of lightening talks. Though he was so focused; so caught up in the moment, so enthused that faces in the audience were just a blur. I had to re-introduce myself after -- when he asked if I had caught his talk and I explained that well 'yes I was holding the mic (for you)'.
Truth is; the most anyone can hope for in this world, is to be loved and missed, and he is.
I never met Gary, and I don't think I ever interacted with him here in the community. That is my misfortune, as it sounds like he was wonderful person to know. My heart goes out to his loved ones and all of you who have lost a dear friend.
Gary's family have sorted details of the funeral. It will be on Thursday of this week, the 22nd, at 10:30 at Oldham Crematorium. If there is anyone near enough to represent us, that would be great. Sadly, I'm too far away.
They have requested family flowers only, so I won't send any from us. Donations in lieu of flowers are being made to Calder Valley Search and Rescue or Kingfisher Community Special School (Jake's school). If you'd like to send money, cheques in sterling made payable to the charity can be sent to the funeral director.
The Search and Rescue have a website where you can donate: http://www.cvsrt.org.uk/index.php. If you want to donate to the School, either send a cheque or use Tracy's paypal.
Tracy tells me that she's sorted out a new bank account linked to the paypal account at liqbase (http://liqbase.net/) so donations can be made there. Equally, anyone wanting to send money for Tracy and the boys can do so there too - just indicate when you make your donation.
I am speechless......I don't know why but I got paralyzed by the shock I felt when I was reading this article. I do not know Garry (Lcuk) personally, but his work and dedication bonds me to him. To all lcuk has left, my deepest sympathy is within you. He may not be with us physically, but his works will remain absolute!
Rest assured, Kathy, that even those like me who do not pray will be thankful for the words of hope and consolation of a Reverend they respect. Thanks for your involvement in our communities, btw.
