My cousin, My Brother but Most of all, My Friend. Les Garrell, or Durand as we all fondly call you, I want to thank you for making our great family a better crew. A mentor, a teacher and the most unselfish person many of us will ever know. One lasting impression for me will be your contagious laugh and your smile a glow. I will miss your kind heart, your dedication to family. Many times you have step up to help avoid or resolve calamity. Never one to approach life from a facade, you were always true to yourself. I always knew who you were and loved you for being you, and for that it is heartfelt. Some of the greatest times in my life occurred in London, Ontario, the home of My cousin, My Brother, but Most of all, My Friend. You always made me feel that your home was my home. You offered me generosity with sincerity and you always made me grin. Even when you opened your doors for me when I was off the tracks a bit, you never placed judgment on me, even though anyone else would have thrown a fit. You merely said "it is what it is, what can I do to help" You were never one to argue, always one to trust, that's simply how I felt. When times for me were bleak, when I thought I would being doing time off the street. you kept me grounded with your cheerful disposition, You had that way that made everyone around you comfortable, and for me, put my mind in a better position. I remember the good times we shared, Racing through the streets of London, no expense by you was ever spared. For you always had the fastest and prettiest car in town, Yes cuz I was proud to be with you, just to be around. You were the master mechanic when it came to auto speed and beauty. There was no car or truck that could not be given new life by you; it was as if it was your duty. You were an auto god creating fun and excitement in the automobile show world, Your master pieces were a sight to behold for boy or girl. You taught me a knowledge about cars that extended far beyond the average car buff. Many times that knowledge got me out of situations that were dangerous & tough. Thanks to you, my car knowledge also saved a few hot dates, In days where breakdowns were the rule for me, that expertise got me to the cuties' final gates Probably the most prominent memory will be the quiet times you gave me just listening to what I had to say, I was headstrong in those times and you would be patient and withhold judgment, I remember that to this day. My cousin, My Brother, but Most of all, My Friend, For that and all of my memories of you I will cherish until my end. Thank You Durand, for allowing me to relate to you and for relating to me on your part, I will miss you, but keep you forever in my heart. May you enjoy peace, Love David
