LYNNE OSBORNE

LYNNE OSBORNE On March 14, 2016, Lynne Osborne left Earth. She loves to travel and this time there is no luggage limit. She packed her cigarettes, Kahlua, instant coffee, romance and spy novels, sandals and hats and unlimited men with moustaches and accents, Elvis, Rod Stewart, Cher and Madonna music catalogues, Van Gogh prints, sea shells, wind chimes and plant to care for and grow. "I want an obituary in case anyone wants to contribute to the PKD (polycystic kidney disease) Foundation of Canada, my wonderful and smart grandson's cause." Donations can be made at www.endpkd.ca/donate While shuffling her feet through the galaxy, her painted, red nail polished hands hold tight and flip through her photo album of the people and memories she loves and adores. Pictures of her spirit lifting vacations with daughter Erica. Pictures with her son Jarrett at his art shows and wedding where she knew Elizabeth Taylor had nothing on her. Pages of her cherished grandchildren Kline, Jade, Lincoln, Clark and Harrison... honorary TK's for now and forever. Small personal notes on her daughter-in-law Angie, her brothers David and Steven, her sister-in-law Barb, nieces and nephews and best friend Evelyn. Finally, tucked away in the back, the love of her life, G. Linnie never wanted a funeral as she always viewed them as "a hokum-pokum ripoff... skip it," she said, "unless it's free." As for her ashes? "Put them anywhere you like..." Anywhere, mom? How about a place so hot the trees are whistling for the dogs while Satan decided to take the day off? How about Albuquerque? You think there are stars up here, but there aren't. All she sees are clusters of yellow flowers, exploding into meteors of hope and peace upon Erica and Angie and everyone she loves. Beyond the flower showers are Russian helicopters, dolphins and cats. "I am proud I made it this far!"... and we are proud to be your children, family and friends. We miss you but will see you again. For now... keep laughing, lighting fires, walking your own pace, exploring, creating, expressing yourself, enjoying the universe. Your pains and anxieties are gone. You beat them. You are free. Private Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 23, 2016. "You have made our life complete, and we love you so."