Dear Len, So many memories come to mind when I think of you, but I have chosen the one which, to me, marked the moment I felt I had entered your family circle as one of its very privileged members. It was on Christmas 1989. I had just opened my first Christmas present from you and discovered … a doll !!! Taken by surprise, I burst out laughing, and asked you if I should take any hints in the choice of present to your future daughter-in-law? Your marvelous blue eyes opened wide, realising that it could have been quite badly received from your son’s future wife, then you joined me with your own laughter. The family bond was sealed by this shared way of interpreting this event, filled with lightness and laughter. Through your humour, which was communicated to all three of your children, you taught me the importance of recognising the funny side of life, which could be lightened up sometimes by a simple remark, a funny way to interpret or observe events. Living in your house for a year just before my wedding to Mark, I learnt to appreciate your way of living your life to the fullest. At the time, I would say that family, Fondacio and keeping fit by running every two days made your everyday life. I found myself often agreeably surprised by the simplicity and humility with which you opened to both of us, Mark and I. You talked to us about your childhood, your choice of becoming a Catholic and the importance for you of embracing your faith without any limit ; the different turns in your life ; the build of your family and your joy of becoming a father… You were true to yourself and trusted us when you shared your doubts, your mistakes. Your testimonies were lessons to me, and for that, I thank you with all my heart. There would be so much to say about you, but what tells it all is that you were not only my father-in-law, you very quickly became my friend with whom I shared wonderful hours in my life talking with trust in each other. By your departure I’ve lost my friend, and nothing will replace this father and daughter-in-law bond but I know deep down in my heart that you are still there, watching and taking care with loving eyes all the ones you loved and will always love. The strength of your own faith doesn’t allow us to have a hint of doubt about it. Thank you, Len for what you have been and will always be for all of us who loved you. With much much love, Florence