EULOGY

Although there was no formal memorial service, as such, to mark Eduardo’s death, I firmly believe that what Susana has done in opening the door to family and friends via this medium, in order to share our memories of some part of his life that we were able to spend with him, is undoubtedly more appropriate than any stilted reunion might have been.

            Therefore, and taking advantage of the opportunity this venue affords me, I would like to offer some thoughts of other kindred, grief-stricken souls who felt as do those of us who have remained behind. 

W. H. AUDEN, APRIL 1936. 

FUNERAL BLUES (excerpt)

Stop all the clocks, turn off the telephone,

Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

The stars are not wanted now; put out every one,

Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun,
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;
For nothing now can come to any good.

ROBERT G. INGERSOLL (1833-1899)

EULOGY AT HIS BROTHER’S FUNERAL (excerpts)

He loved the beautiful, and was with color, form and music touched to tears.  He sided with the weak, the poor, the wronged and lovingly gave alms.
   Life is a narrow vale between the cold and barren peaks of two eternities.
   He who sleeps here, when dying, mistaking the approach of death for the return of health, whispered with his last breath, “I am better now.”  Let us believe, in spite of doubts and dogmas, of fears and tears, that these dear words are true of all the countless dead.
   Speech cannot contain our love. There was, there is no gentler, stronger, manlier man.
Patricia Bari Frew