Remembering Jean-Paul Weiss…May he Rest in Peace
Dear Friends,
This morning I took Bernie to the airport for a journey to France without me. I feel a bit like a lost puppy as we’ve traveled there together for the last 15 years. He will be attending the funeral of his cousin, Jean-Paul Weiss in Alsace near the German border. He passed away yesterday. The death was expected but never easy when the news is finally received. His was a life well-lived.
We have so many dear memories over the years. One of the most poignant for me was the very first time I met Jean-Paul and his wife Marie Josée. It was July of 2007, I believe, one of the coldest Julys on record. We were visiting for about a week partly in their home and partly in their chalet on the ski slopes of Switzerland. I had only open-toed sandals which were not going to do in the cool temps of Alsace and the even colder temps in the Swiss Alps. Jean-Paul put me in his car and took me to the weekly open-air market in the center of town where you can buy everything from avocados to umbrellas. He took me over to the shoes, and I found a pair of closed-toe black lace-ups for 12 euros. I wore those shoes for ten years after that and called them my rainy day Paris “must-have’s.”
Jean-Paul was a very successful entrepreneur owning a thriving business selling kitchen equipment. He was also a hunter, a snow-skier, a traveler, a wine connoisseur, and even an author. He spoke perfect French which he uttered in a staccato monotone. He was a wonderful father and husband and will be remembered as a force in everyone’s lives.
Safe travels to Bernie as he celebrates the life of Jean-Paul.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:10 pm
So sorry about Jean-Paul. Our prayers and sympathy go with Bernie. Much love, too.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:27 pm
Thank you, Charles.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:15 pm
So very sorry to read this sad news, Linda. Sending prayers and hugs to you and Bernie.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:27 pm
Merci, Carol.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:20 pm
What marvelous bittersweet memories. Praying for a safe journey there and back again.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:26 pm
Merci, Judy.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:39 pm
Dearest Bernie, condolences on the death of such a wonderful cousin. Thank you, Linda, for this update and for sharing the photos. I know this is such an important and formative part of your French experience with Bernie. Jeanie
January 30, 2018 @ 10:41 pm
Thanks, Jeanie, wonderful memories with you as well.
January 30, 2018 @ 10:55 pm
Linda, so sorry to hear about the death of Bernie’s dear cousin. My condolences to you both and wishing Bernie safe travels.
Hugs,
Jane
January 30, 2018 @ 10:58 pm
Thanks, Jane. Have another doctor’s appointment on Monday for my foot. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
January 30, 2018 @ 11:00 pm
What a beautiful tribute, Linda.
Deepest sympathy to you and Bernie and all Jean-Paul’s family. I”m sure they’ll treasure Bernie’s presence and your wonderful words.
Safe travels to Bernie at this sad time xx
January 30, 2018 @ 11:02 pm
Thanks, Carolyn, and best to Clive!
January 30, 2018 @ 11:45 pm
Im very sorry to learn of the passing of who was obviously a wonderful man and close relation to Bernie. Our prayers are with you both during this difficult time. Cherish the memories.
January 31, 2018 @ 12:36 am
Thanks, Toni!
January 31, 2018 @ 12:11 am
I am so sorry about the death of Bernie’s cousin. I do wish Bernie safe travels.
May Jean-Paul’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
January 31, 2018 @ 12:36 am
Merci, Pam!
January 31, 2018 @ 1:44 am
Dear Bernie. I am so sorry. Beautifully written tribute, Linda. Much love.
January 31, 2018 @ 1:56 am
Thank you, Lynne!
January 31, 2018 @ 3:11 am
Dear Bernie and Linda, so sorry to hear of the loss of cousin and dear friend, Jean-Paul. May he rest in peace.
Fred
January 31, 2018 @ 11:06 am
Fred, thank you. Bernie cherishes his French family. This is very difficult for him.
May is getting closer and we can’t wait to see you guys.
January 31, 2018 @ 4:12 am
A life well lived indeed. My sincere sympathy to Bernie and hope his travels go well. Linda, what a lovely remembrance.
January 31, 2018 @ 11:05 am
Thank you, Beth!
January 31, 2018 @ 9:49 am
Thank you Linda for this “in memoriam” message. Marie-José will appreciate your attention. In fine we had all wonderfull moments with Jean-Paul and will remain.
January 31, 2018 @ 11:04 am
Dear Pierre & Laurie, My heart is with you all, and thank you for taking good care of Bernie. It feels so odd to have him there with you and to be here separate and apart. I will miss seeing everyone, but will cherish all the fun times together.
Love,
Linda
January 31, 2018 @ 12:07 pm
It is sad but such a blessing that Bernie had all of those visits with him for treasured memories.
January 31, 2018 @ 1:17 pm
Absolutely!
February 1, 2018 @ 4:02 pm
So sorry to hear this, I hope Bernie’s travels are safe and quick
February 1, 2018 @ 4:08 pm
Thanks, Jim!
February 2, 2018 @ 12:43 am
Linda and Bernie I’m so sorry for your loss may he Rest In Peace my thoughts and prayers to you and the family xo
February 2, 2018 @ 1:25 am
Merci beaucoup!
February 3, 2018 @ 1:09 am
Sorry to hear about the death of Bernie’s cousin Jean Paul. Condolences to both of you.
February 3, 2018 @ 1:22 am
Thanks so much!