Monday, December 22, 2025
Michelle, Trevor and Graeme,
Dale was truly a gift to the world. I am deeply grateful that he is a part of my life. I learned from him the depths of courage, resilience and compassion in his thoughts, ideas and humour. I'll never forget the first time hearing his belly laugh when we were blowing bubbles and water was splashing everywhere! I'm not sure how I managed it, but I ended up spilling the water and it wetting only the back of my pants. From that moment on, it seemed like our sessions were full of non-stop giggles and memorable moments. From beating me in board games ("It has banana seats, Maria!"...I had no clue that's what bicycle seats were called), to burping out frogs in our computer voices games and accidentally hitting our faces with the microphone, to our curiosity of learning about the toad life cycle (and then telling Mom about the embarrassing toad video we watched). This led to one of his sayings (and one of my favourites to hear) in our sessions, "If anyone asks me what we do in speech, I'll tell them (insert embarrassing Maria moment)".
But of course, my favourite memory has to be our Turtle Club. I am so happy to have found a buddy who loves turtles even more than I do! What a joy it was to make a club handshake, create a pledge and have a dedicated time each week to enjoy everything turtles. Dale's enthusiasm was contagious and it was his gentleness, empathy and dedication to all creatures and people that has left an impact on us and anyone else who had the honour of knowing him.
I wish we had one more club meeting. I wish we were able to play one last game of Snorta. I miss him so much already and all the memories I have with him will stay with me.
Thank you for allowing me to have been a part of his journey and his life. I am thinking of you all.
To Dale - I promise to continue to love turtles and to care for all living creatures with the same kindness and gentleness you gave them.
With deep admiration and love,
Maria