Ian Hector Sturgeon
Bartlett

EEach of us mean different things to those we have loved. To Ian each of you was something special. Each of you George and Val, Trevor, Tracey and Terri, Farah, Emma, Adam, Matthew Tori and Kenzi, Mila, Riley and Lilli. Each of you has your own special ray of his light. That is the nature of what it means to be human. And despite his challenges and troubles don’t forget it takes courage, strength, and a pretty big sense of humour to live through eighty eight years of this life. All the experiences Ian had throughout those decades demanded different things. As you look back now and you can see how these different aspects of his character impacted you in so many different ways, it is not surprising that you will hold memories of his life differently. But in his loss you are all united. And my deepest belief, my one job if you like, is to remind you to hold close those positive aspects of what he has been to you. For as time passes, in the years ahead, the challenges and troubled times will pass from your memory but the father, the brother and sister, the grandfather and great grandfather man will remain in your hearts. And it is this that we are here to share and celebrate today. And particularly today I hold Ian’s children Tracey, Trevor and Terry, with compassion and respect. As you have always done with your father, in being here today, despite everything, you have put your loyalty and care first, ensuring that Ian’s life is honoured by this meaningful and memorable ceremony. I have heard your words and, I hope, this occasion will help you in the future to remember your father, as you wish to. Keep hold of what was amazing and inspiring about him and what made you his children. Don’t forget that the good bits of you are also inherited from your father. In the coming days, weeks, months and years… for the rest of your lives in fact, there may be moments when you will turn around unconsciously to ask him a question or laugh out loud at something you know he would have found funny. You will hear music that brings memories of him back or remember one of his many mad escapades and smile inside. It is in these precious moments when you will know that the idea and essence of him remains within you all and that you are blessed in your own way by the spirit and energy of that life