From Chris Precey
The following has been received from Chief Sparker Chris Precey.
This is to let you know that I am now entering a new phase in my life. My lifelong companion, Jan, not only no longer sleeps in the same bed as I do, she does not sleep in the same abode. As of 30th December, she is domiciled in the secure dementia unit in the Julia Wallace Retirement Village here in Palmerston North where she is now being cared for far better than I could. Her dementia certainly took a turn for the worse after having had covid in early August. Also, my health was going downhill and I was finding that I could not cope very well. It was probably the toughest decision I have ever made, but with family support, it had to be made.
I wish you and your family and all the comms association and especially all those who knew Jan, all the very best for 2023 and hope that the year goes well for everyone.
So sorry to hear of this Chris, you and Jan and the kids were part of our lives in Plymouth Cres for2/3years.. a great woman with sound advice and a great laugh, so so sad to hear…Gunth
Hi Chris. Saddened by the news Jan is a delightful lady and I know you would have done all you possibly could in later times. My thoughts and prayers are with you both at these times. You yourself have been truly amazing how you stayed strong over more than 40 years with your personal setback. Bless you both from me and my famz.
Chris … you have my sympathy and understanding… I find my self in exactly the same position … and after 56 years of togetherness , its not what we want to happen in our final years..
That is very sad Chris, she is in the best place now even though you feel at a loss.
All the best to you and your whanau as well.
Take care Jan Ainsworth.
My dear shipmate & Brutha Buff Chris P, Very sorry to learn of your family crisis (if I may call it that mate) as I too am going through the same dilema with my beloved Linda May for nigh on two years now. “Touch wood” we have not yet reached the stage where admittance to “full time care ” is necessary. Our thoughts and aroha are with you, Jan and your whanau..
Kindly, Bill Bartlett
TO MY OLD SHIP MATES: CHRIS, LOU AND WIREMU.
IT IS DEEPLY SADDENING TO READ THAT YOUR WIVES [LINDA MAY, JAN AND LOU’S PARTNER] ARE NOW STRUGGLING WITH THE RAVAGES OF LIFE. EVEN THOUGH YOU HAVE HAD TO ALTER COURSE AND RESET YOUR GYRO COMPASS, FAMILY MEMORIES ARE PURE GOLD AND I KNOW NOTHING ON PLANET EARTH WILL EVER ERASE THE DEEP FAMILY LOVE AND THE WONDERFUL TIMES YOU HAVE SHARED, AND WILL CONTINUE TO SHARE, OVER MANY, MANY YEARS.
ALTHOUGH I AM NOT AN OVERLY RELIGIOUS PERSON – MAY THE ALMIGHTY SPRINKLE SENSIBLE GUIDANCE, THE STRENGTH AND MUCH AROHA ON YOU ALL TO CARRY ON YOUR GOOD WORK.
Thank you all for all your kind comments and especially to those that have suffered heartbreak within your families in one way or another. I know that you feel deeply about your loved ones and my very best wishes go out to and to yours. To Wiremu and Lou, hang in there but remember your own health. If your own health suffers, it will make it so much harder for you. Your continuing friendship is very much appreciated.
Chris