Emanuel (Lolly) Camilleri writes:

Hearing that you were in hospital came as a shock to me but nothing could have prepared me for the news that you had passed away.

I came to visit you in hospital and you cried when you realised you could not talk to me. I too cried when I heard you had passed away, as I thought of the good old days when I used to come to your office at the Drydocks to speak to you. I used to tell my friends I was going to visit Morandi, as you were known there.

We used to talk about everything – from work, to family and other subjects. You were so sincere and always ready to help. You were a jack of all trades, good at art and pottery.

Later, when we both moved to Iklin, I always made it a point to pass by your house whenever I was out walking my dog. I always hoped your garage door would be ajar, as that meant you were available to talk. Now, though I still pass by, I know I cannot stop to talk to you and I miss it.

There were a lot of people at your funeral: friends from the Drydocks, friends from Mcast, where you lectured, and your neighbours from Iklin, where you did so much work for the community.

It was so sad to see your wife lay her head on your coffin, and to see your daughters cry. There was so much love between you and your wife, Maria. You also raised your children with discipline but you loved them so much and were so proud of what they had achieved.

You used to tell me the e-mails I sent you were so good you had a special folder for them. I am writing this last e-mail, which, though is not being sent to you, is dedicated to you as you were a sincere, loyal and true friend.

My parents’ graves are a few metres away from yours and I promise I will visit you. I will remember you in my prayers, though you do not need our prayers; we are the ones who need yours.

Rest in peace, buddy.

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