Joseph Cachia, PRO, Bonsai Culture Group writes:

All of us flocked to her just like we have done for the last 16 years. But this time, our purpose was different. We were not there to listen to her lecture us about her pets – the Bonsai trees she loved so much.

The irony was that we were gathered at Attard parish church, next door to the Attard centre where 20 years ago we Bonsai aficionados had held the first meetings of our fledgling club.

We were there to pay our last respects to Margaret, wife of Paul Debono, the club’s president. We had come from all over the island to show her she would remain in our hearts forever.

She was like a second mother to all of us. Always ready to help and encourage each new member, with a smile on her lips, she would explain that Bonsaiculture is not as difficult as most people think it is, then proceed to make her point.

Although she had been voted ‘The Ideal Woman’, some years ago, Margaret was not proud of her prowess and was always ready to offer advice to newcomers as well as experienced Bonsai enthusiasts.

First, she would give a little smile and then start to demonstrate how one could improve the tree’s appearance. Always gentle but firm in her correcting of any defects. All of us admired, respected and, in a way, loved her.

I am sure she used the same technique with her children and grandchildren; always strivingto achieve higher levels andstandards.

We believe God has already assigned her a corner in his gardens which she will beautify with Bonsai. He is sure to appreciate the work she did during her stay in this valley of tears.

To Paul and the rest of her family we send our regards and deepest sympathy.