Hail and Farewell Ed and Jackie
The phrase “hail and farewell” comes from the Latin “ave atque vale,” which appears in one of the most poignant poems in classical literature. The Roman poet Catullus (c. 84-54 BCE) wrote these words in Poem 101, composed after traveling a great distance to visit his brother’s grave in the Troad (modern-day Turkey). The poem is a brief but deeply emotional farewell at the burial site. The closing lines read:
“atque in perpetuum, frater, ave atque vale” (“and forever, brother, hail and farewell”)
This became one of the most famous expressions of grief in Western literature. Catullus uses “ave” (hail/hello) and “vale” (farewell/goodbye) together to capture the paradox of death—simultaneously greeting his brother’s memory while saying a final goodbye.
Hail and Farewell Mom and Dad
Mom and Dad were married one month short of 74 years. That is a powerful love story. I made the photo above on their 70th wedding anniversary. Mom passed Saturday November 29, 2025. Nine days later Dad passed on December 7, 2025.
Here are links to their obituaries. Mother, Father.
Even though we knew it was coming, Patty and I are deeply moved, and mourn along with my four siblings, and Mom and Dad’s 16 grand children and 19 great grand children. Death does have a sting.
Hail and farewell Mom and Dad.
My best,
Mike
Ps. Favor please. If you care to share your condolences, please do so at the bottom of this page. (I’d rather not grieve on social media.) Or we’d welcome a card. Our address is 204 Parc Forest Trail, Saint Charles, Mo 63303.
Thank you
Below is a 4-minute video celebrating our family.