Monday, March 16, 2020
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It's hard to fully capture the life and spirit of a man who achieved, built, learned and loved so much in his lifetime. It utterly amazes me how he overcame so much adversity in his life. The dispossession of his home during the war and the excruciating loss of both parents, not to mention his suffering brutal injuries. Most men would have held on to the ensuing bitterness, allowing it to color their outlook, life choices and faith. But not Guy. He was an exceptional man. His faith in God always remained strong, yet he was human enough to admit spiritual questions but possessed the courage and desire to explore for answers. With all that Guy achieved in academics and his career, nothing mattered more to him than his wife Gilda and the family. Knowing how close they were to his heart, it was all the more special to be welcomed by him into the Provenzale family. Although I was his son-in-law, his was a kinship and closeness bestowed to a son. Guy was a tremendous father to Laura, Anna Marie, Marcella and Lisa. Their unbreakable love and connection to him was a testament to that bond. 'Cuckoo' was an equally loving Grandpa, and our children GiGi and Spencer had the blessing of his presence in their lives.
Guy's love and generosity came without strings. Always welcoming and quick to weave a connecting thread to a story in his life, I came to truly appreciate all that he shared. Reflecting on the man, in short he had it all: good health, a long life, strong faith, 4 beautiful daughters and a magnificent life partner in Gilda. But not be be lost among all that, he had integrity, throughout his life and to the end. Only the best of us can claim that. In fact, I think I can say he was the best man I've ever known. Thank you for all of your love and kindness, Guy. I love you. Although not quite centocinquanta, yours was a full life and you'll be sorely missed by la famiglia!
-Joe