Memories of Rudy
My cousin Rudy passed away last Friday. I don’t know why his passing affected me so, but it did. Perhaps because he lost his wife Allison, the love of his life, two and a half years ago and I lost my Peter, my soul mate, my reason for being, four years ago. We both suffered so after they died.
My sister Nora and I met our cousin Rudy for the first time in London. Rudy was studying aeronautics in Luton, England, having arrived from Baghdad. It was autumn of 1957 when we first met, and despite the challenges of boarding school, Rudy’s kindness and care left a lasting imprint on us.
Coming from Tehran, where life was warm and vibrant, our boarding school in Malvern, Worcestershire, was a stark change. Rudy, a few years older, acted as a big brother to us, bringing a sense of family and comfort. Despite the bleak surroundings and unfamiliar routines, Rudy’s presence made it more tolerable.
During the holidays, we found solace in London, staying with a kind Mrs. Harris. Rudy, with his thoughtful gestures, brought joy to our days, even surprising us with a tin of caviar, a luxury we sorely missed from home. His act of kindness stayed with me through the years.
Now, as reminiscing brings back these memories, I share this tale again, honoring Rudy’s memory and the warmth he brought into our lives during those challenging times. Rest in peace, Rudy and Allison.