The day after Christmas we lost a Great Man A person whose absence was never part of our plan Alex didn't seek the spotlight or ask for recognition Living a life of love and kindness was his true mission He cherished his family and friends so dear The lives he touched overflowed with laughter and cheer He had a mischievous nature, and couldn't pass up a good joke But always in a playful way, he was just that kind of bloke He believed in the superior power of the left-hander And always spoke with wisdom and candor Great pleasure he found in caring for others From family and friends to birds of many colors A legendary sense of humor and a ready smile For those in need he went far beyond the extra mile He was convinced that the lottery and Jeopardy were fixed But give him a good auction and he'd be transfixed Some may say he had a stubborn side But really it was just that damned Scottish Pride A sense of adventure lasted all his 85 years Always eager to explore new frontiers With patience and wonder he always viewed life And spent 46 blessed years with his best friend and wife A nature so humble and gentle he had He truly was the world's best Dad Creativity and ingenuity were just two of his extraordinary traits He also had a knack for starting great debates So though his passing has left a huge void If he knew that we made a big fuss he'd be quite annoyed Today we salute him, with all that we can For it was an honor to know this very Great Man Alex will be forever cherished by his wife Doreen, daughter and son-in-law Moira and Josh Vander Meer, nieces Sasha Mitchell and Deirdre Hineline, great nieces, nephews, and his loving extended family and friends both domestic, in the UK and elsewhere. He joins his dearly loved daughter Fiona and sister Margaret in eternal peace. A celebration of Alex's life is planned for the spring.