Alas, I have lost my Mate

[Sloop John B]

A sad note to tell you my wife, Peggy, died suddenly last week. ME says something about a ruptured vein and she slept way peacefully. I have never met any of you people, but over the years I have come to know many of you.

We’re both 68, in average shape but realized that rigging and derigging the Mac in one day was too much. Because of such little use I had put the sloop ‘Peggy C’ in the classifieds a few months ago. Peg was to have had her thumb ‘fixed’ this week and was scheduled for reconstruction on both knees next month. Then she would get around to her crushed disk. There were a couple distant inquiries about the boat but I never quite got around to taking and sending pictures like I said I would. I think I was awaiting the arrival of the ‘bionic’ woman.

My thoughts (for this thread) now go to the arduous chore of single handing. My brother is coming down for a week. He’s never sailed but he’s a smart kid. I think I can walk him through the rigging process, slap a life jacket on him, and have him understand basic sailing in little time. I’ll have him remain moot and see how it goes.

My message is to cherish every moment you have on the water with your loved one(s). Look ahead and anticipate how age and its effects will affect you.

One of the memories I will hold forever was out on the Gulf in two foot chop decent wind. I had to go up in front of the mast to do something and I told her to hold her to the wind. Boat got to rocking so bad I had to wrap my legs around the mast and we were coming about and gybing. I could see her at the helm with her head cocked back and her glasses were completely frosted over with salt spray. She was moving the wheel from lock to lock. I had to giggle and shouted back, “Into the wind, Princess.”

“Hey, this isn’t all that easy, Shultz”

Oh, God, I miss her so.

[kziadie]

My condolences to you and the rest of your family. Although it doesnt make things right, I hope you can find some solace out on the water with your brother.

Kelly

[greybird-M]

Sloop John B,

I am so sorry for your loss. My sweetheart and I are in our mid-50's and my parents are in their early 80's (Dad was recently fitted with a Pacemaker) - Karen's the only one left of her family (gone are two brothers and both parents, too soon).

We are increasingly aware of how short a time we have; we notice how our bodies change, how "The sun is the same in a relative way, but we're older."

Your posts over the years have stood out for me because of your wit, good humor and thoughtfullness.

May God bless you and your departed Mate.

-Walt

[kmclemore]

God clearly loved Peggy to give her such a peaceful transition, SJB... and I pray He continues to hold her in His hands and that He may also give you patience, comfort and peace as the years pass until you are joyfully reuinted.

When my father, Robert McLemore, died in 2005, I renamed the sailboat he and I sailed together for so many years from "Sea Saw" to "Bobby's Boys", in his honor. Hopefully my sons will inherit that boat, preserve it, and continue to love sailing as he did, and always remember they are "Bobby's Boys", too.

[Catigale]

Our condolences Sloop, and maybe hold off on those major transitions for a year while you have to adjust...Peace be with you.

[DLT]

Sloop,

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.

[tangentair]

Sloop
You honor us by sharing your sadness and loss here. Peggy will remain here, a part of your postings, for she was so obviously a part of your sailing and life. May your heart mend and your memories stay strong.
Ron

[MARK PASSMORE]

Sloop, Our condolences on your loss. It sounds like you have made many grand memories that will be with you all your days, and that is a beautiful thing.

[Frank C]

Sloop,

Tangent's right. Such unwelcomed news is always shared first with family and friends. It's an honor to have your announcement here. You convey how important this Forum is to you, and it's a reminder to us. Thanks.

Sincerest Condolances my friend. We knew Peggy through your humorous stories, and your mutual feelings shone through them.
Fair Seas ... to Peggy and to you.

[nchogberg]

Oh God, what a blessing she went peacefully. I'll have you in my prayers.

Nels

[eric3a]

..

[rowdy]

Sloop,

I know we don't really know each other except on this board but I feel we're good friends. I am very sorry for your loss. I too feel privlidged that you're sharing it with us. You and your brother enjoy that boat before it is sold.

Your friend,
Mark Prouty

[nedmiller]

Sloop,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. I have so enjoyed your posts the past few years. Thank you for your sweet advice. I will be more certain to cherish the time I have on the water with my mate because of you.
Ned

[They Theirs]

Sloop
We are so very saddened hearing of Peggy’s sudden passing; our thoughts are with you and your family. I’m reminded of times we exchanged banter, and your describing Peggy’s laughter, making light of our trivial posturing. It seems so quiet at this time, thinking how alone you must be without your better half.

We hope you have family and friends close to help, and our thoughts for your sorrow at such a difficult time.

[rockman]

Sloop,

The internet allows us to share so much with people that we would normally never get to meet. Usually it is the jokes and good time, unfortuately we also have to share the down times. There are 100's of people on this site that all feel for you. Here on the other side of the world I will go to bed tonight reminded that we are only here for a short time.
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Cheers
Simon