One Waterford Neighbors Remembrance
After living in the same building for 10 years with Mr. Gossard, I finally had the pleasure to meet Doug.
Ironically this occurred when he had car troubles at his home; just this past cold January! The irony was on same day I found out he operated an auto parts store in Shippensburg!
After the local Police, Officer Tim Rine, suggested He place his car in private property, until such time as he could get a new tire and rim; I assisted him in moving his car safely. Doug appeared anxious about his car.
I applied orange safety tape to the car, as it was parked to the side, in an exit lane at his home. I took pictures to assure that safety precautions were taken.
We walked together up our driveway, and I introduced myself, and he introduced himself, we shook hands.
I remember being surprised that he was Doug Gossard, who has lived here more than 10 years!
While I had heard of Doug, and his agreeable stance on current Governance at Waterford, I do not recall seeing him at annual meetings. Doug believed strongly in his position, and I had read his opinion.
I had never met him or spoke with him, or I would have recognized him; if I saw him.
It amazed me how fragile life is ,and those so close to us that we never encounter, or have the time to get to know.
He lived in the North Building, and I in The South.
He was kind, and appreciative of my help,and generosity.
I suggested he contact the President of our Board (Eddie), and let him know about his car. His anxiety appeared to be relieved. And Officer Rine seemed satisfied as he left the area.
When we shook hands and parted, I remember Doug appeared a little frail. But I immediately saw a glimmer in his eye as I extended my hand, and he grasped it tightly with genuine appreciation for my help, and kindness towards him.
I felt at that moment we had connected in a way I did not know, but we connected.
On the day after Doug passed , I noticed emergency vehicles at our home, I introduced myself, and assisted one officer in entry to the complex, and unit 2460. As I walked with him to 2460 home I was feeling sad.
At that moment all I knew was the Investigator wanted assistance in getting to unit 2460. He did not mention a name.
The officer thanked me ,and shook my hand as he entered unit 2460.
I was shaken to the bone, as I walked away from 2460. Because I asked the camera carrying Investigator if he was the Coroner.
I then checked our roster, and realized 2460 was Mr. Gossards home.
My fears were later verified , by Officer Scelara, that Doug had passed in his home.
I did not know Doug well, despite living at the same building for 10 years, but I feel I got to know the real Doug, by extending a kindness, as he was the most appreciative. I and was happy to have helped, despite i was late again for stopping to aid Mr. Gossard.
Sadly, I was not see Doug Again. But had the odd pleasure to be there again for him, in death.
I believe, and feel strongly, Doug, is in a better place, and feel a strong spiritual connection because of circumstances that placed me in his company by happenstance, for such a short but meaningful time.
Our short time together meant something to me because of happenstance, and I feel in death he would want his family, loved ones, and all the owners at Waterford, to know, that this neighbor was blessed to have met Doug in a neighborly way.
It's not how much time you have with others, but rather it's the quality time that matters.
May God Speed.
Frank Perry
1540 Waterford
Camp Hill, PA
Posted :www.legacy.com
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