Love for Antonio

This past weekend we said goodbye to Francesco’s father, Antonio, my Italian father-in-law.

A man who taught me so much about the value of family, harmony, love and forgiveness.

Not a bad bone in his body and yet the cancer ate it all.

I remember how a few years back Francesco broke down in tears fearing the loss of his father, little did we realise Antonio would outlive his youngest son.

I am at peace with the thought that on his leaving Francesco was there to meet him, to take him home.

Their relationship was so strong on this plane, I can only imagine the connection from the place they now both stand.

Before Antonio left, Fran’s mum told me that her husband simply looked at her and smiled.

A last goodbye.

I recall Fran’s mother being admitted to hospital one time and we went to stay overnight with his father.

When I woke early the next day I found him dressed to the nines sitting in the chair.

When I asked him where he was going all dressed up at that hour he said,

“To see my wife and bring her home.”

An act of love, dressed for her, and no way he was having her stay in there.

They enjoyed 54 years together through thick and thin.

Fran’s Dad owned a clothes shop in Taranto, he was always interested in style.

Much to his disappointment, Fran became too complacent around fashion after living in London.

I recall one time going to an event with the family and Fran was wearing ripped jeans and a t-shirt.

His father shook his head when he saw how his son was dressed and simply said, “You look like a Brit,” the ultimate insult.

Fran and I just laughed and laughed.

Antonio loved to entertain, the more the merrier and he would always pack my bag full of home-cooked food as we left after Sunday lunch.

Later, when they removed his stomach, he continued to take pleasure in feeding us all.

The menu was often decided days in advance.

I’ll always remember him by the words “vuoi” meaning “do you want.”

“Gracie vuoi formaggio?”

“Vuoi frutta?”

“Vuoi pesce?”

Forever the giver....

And my response, to keep him happy and smiling....

“Si Anto." ❤️

Rest In Peace our sweet angel.