Uncle Ed, RIP

I didn't want to write this entry but I knew it was coming: My uncle Ed died this morning. He had just turned 89, just as like his brother Jerry had when he died in 2000.
The last time I saw Uncle Ed was on March 13, his birthday, when I brought roses to his hospital room and Veeka ran around and made everyone laugh. Even then I suspected he'd not see his 90th birthday.
He was such a gentle person and judging from his last conversation last night with Nancy, his daughter, he was not interested in departing this earth any time soon! But to his surprise, I am sure, he was called home some time this morning.
I do regret he won't be able to use his Russian with Veeka nor read his beloved New Ulm papers or pet his sweet cat Abby nor talk with his wife or daughters again on this earth. What does make me happy is that today he sees his two sons Jackie and Michael - both of whom died in the month of March in 1948 and 1983, respectively - for the first time in decades.
I just learned of his passing a few minutes ago, so am still at a loss for words. Here's a photo of him with Veeka. At least they got to meet.