Life itself brings us all types of challenges, but nothing like losing a child. In the early parts of summer, I can remember w warm day, kids were playing, swimming and life was moving along as it should. As a young child I remember being asked to run down to the bridge, of which was only a short distance away. My mother told me in broken voice to hurry and get my brother Richard. The bridge was a swimming hole that all the local kids used. They would often test their diving skills. I remember the day being warm, and the sun shining on the water. I arrived at the bridge and located my brother. He wondered why his presence was required so quickly back at our home. Knowing my brother, he thought he was in trouble. We ran back together and arrived at the house, both of us out of breath. As you can imagine in those days, when your parents told you to get home, you ran home, no matter what the reason was. My brother went into the house and I stayed outside, thinking if he was in trouble,I'd better keep out of the way. I remembered that many people started to arrive at the house with food, of which was fine by me. Our home was a nice and humble home, no extras but always food on the table and a roof over our heads filled with love. It’s only then when I saw my father who never cried, chocking on his words and barely being able to contain himself with grief. I knew there was something that was no longer right in his Universe. My mother was also crying while neighbours were sheltering her from to many inquiries about the incident. I later found out that my big brother Michael would not be coming home that day, and that he had drowned in Richard Lake. My brother you see was only 18 years old, full of life. Faced with the news of which would be a nightmare for any parent, were tasked of making funeral arrangements. So later, my parents left us in our neighbours care, and took the long drive to Sudbury and spoke with Gerry Lougheed (Sr). Gerry was a man that understood that the loss of any life was a significant but the loss of a child was unthinkable. My parents having meager means were advised that Michael would be buried no matter what financial funds were available. At a time of personal crisis, Gerry Lougheed (Sr) was there for my brother and parents. My father, a very proud man, made sure that every dollar was paid. I honestly believed, knowing a little, about the Lougheed family, that Mr. Loughheed(Sr) would not have cared either way. Mr. Lougheed was a kind man, a community man, and a positive figure within our Community. A community, which is still supported by the leadership of Geoffrey and Gerry Lougheed (Jr). You can rest easy Mr. Loughheed (Sr), your sons will continue the tradition of community before self. Mr. Lougheed (Sr) a real “Gentleman”.