March 26th. Today marks the 1 year anniversary of my brother’s passing……although it feels like yesterday. Time has a way of standing still when it comes to Augie. I will never get to see him grow old, thus, he will remain the same in my mind….like time standing still. Today, I thought it fitting to re-post my tribute to him from last April.
https://vimeo.com/92889996
Password: augie
In loving memory of my brother August Skye Gaw. Born August 3rd, 1980. Entered into rest March 26th, 2014. These images are of his burial, his home in Santa Margarita, and the day following his memorial at our grandfather’s ranch- his favorite place in this world.
“Our August died on his own battlefield. He was killed in action fighting a civil war. He fought against adversaries that were as real to him as his casket is real to us. They were powerful adversaries. They took toll of his energies and endurance. They exhausted the last vestiges of his courage, and only God knows how this child of His suffered in the silent skirmishes that took place in his soul.” – Victor M. Parachin
My brother was a man of passion. Whatever he did, he did with his whole heart. Like a red rose; he was beautiful, crimson, complicated, yet full of thorns. Not many people understood him, but those who did will be changed forever. And although they say time will ease our broken hearts, there will forever be a void that he once filled. Augie- I will miss your strong hugs, your desire as a big brother to shield me from harm, your ethics, your ability to skip the gossip and small talk and discuss things that truly matter. You are with me always. You are in my childhood memories. You are in the music I listen to. You are in the soft country breeze.
Things Augie treasured most: Family Life. His loving wife Sara and beautiful daughter Hunter. Honor. Music. Playing the piano. Animals. Especially horses and his dog Beck. The Wilderness. Hunting. BBQing. His close circle of friends. Ranching. Living off the Land. Martial Arts. And being a Protector.
“Once Among Us, Always in Our Hearts, Forever in Heaven”
I found a couple of pictures from August and I pig hunting, and didn’t know if you would like me to send them too you. One is at your grandfather’s ranch but at night time. If so I’d be more than happy to send them to you. Hope all is well, John Gouff.
Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry I never check my site comments so I’m just now seeing this. I would LOVE for you to send me any photos you have! Thank you so much John!! You are incredibly sweet.
Feel free to email them to me at mail@bretcole.com.