I grew up around him, 'cause he lived in Arlington, VA. I grew up around some of his grandkids. Yesterday, when I learned he went back into the hospital, one of my friends asked if I was close with him. I had trouble coming up with an answer. I mean, well, yea, kinda? Not like close like I am with my grandparents, but out of all my grandmother's sibilings, he was the one I was 2nd closest with. I know I am rather fond of him. He was a great little man.
Uncle Gabe stood about maybe 4'10" towards the end of his life. He often wore a baret. There is a painting of him, holding a computer chip, with stars and galixies and the like in the background, in the living room of his house in Arlington. His wife, Aunt Bess, was diagnosed with breast cancer back when I was in highschool. She didn't get chemo 'cause she was old. She actually survives him.
I'm... sad. He had a long, full, life. Filled with a great many things. He's someone who took advantage of the fullness of life. While I didn't see him much, I will miss him.