Today’s day of sanctuary was sponsored by me, Diana, in memory of my aunt Linda Goodrich. Linda was a long-time supporter of the sanctuary, first making a donation as a wedding gift for me and J.B.
Linda lived her life with a sense of adventure and independence and followed the Golden Rule by treating people with kindness.
Though she lived a few states away in Colorado and wasn’t able to visit the sanctuary as she would have liked, Linda considered the chimpanzees part of her extended family and had a soft spot for her buddy Burrito. She always appreciated the calendars of the chimpanzees I would send each year as Christmas gifts.
It has been several years since I have seen Linda. I am so sorry I wasn’t more present during these last few years while she went through cancer treatment.
I made arrangements to go to her service which was last Friday in Colorado, but cancelled those plans at the last minute because of the emergency procedure for Burrito. I know Linda would have understood and would have been sending good wishes and prayers for Burrito.
My sister-in-law posted some photos of Linda’s service and the displays at the service included several photos of the chimpanzees that Linda had received in the mail over the years. It warms my heart knowing that the chimpanzees were a part of her celebration of life.
Diana, we are so sorry to hear about the loss of your Aunt Linda. She sounds like a very special person. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Aunt Linda but I am sure she appreciated that her buddy Burrito came first. Thank you for all you and everyone does for your very special group
Thinking of you Diana… I am certain that your Aunt Linda is watching and giving her ever present energy to everything you all do. Burrito has someone on the other side (many I am sure) who provide a light of guidance and energy for him and CSNW. Special hugs to you and Burrito.
Touched me to see your sponsor-a-day today Diana. Very sorry for your loss, from your description, your Aunt Linda sounds just the type of person we need more of in todays world. There is this invisible thread that connects the chimps to all of us. And you did attend your Aunt Linda’s service — you were there in each chimp photo.
I’m so sorry to hear about your Aunt Linda. You stayed with her buddy Mr. B and that is what she would have wanted you to do. Her spirit will be with you as you take care of the Chimps that she loved.
That picture of you sitting on the blanket with a covered Burrito I mentioned in my e-mail that you looked tired, worried and sad. Perhaps it was because of the loss of your aunt Linda as well as B. that made it so obvious you were in pain. So sorry, Diana. Came at such a bad time too.
It’s not easy losing one’s special person as Linda was for you. Keep your memories close and know that a person like Aunt Linda was also proud of her niece for the work you do every day. Thinking of you, especially now because of your loss and the difficult days you and your team have recently experienced. ?
Thank you, Diana, for sharing this celebration of your Aunt Linda’s life. May all these kind words of sympathy lift you up as you continue to honor her through your work at the Sanctuary.
Let’s all strive to be a little more like her!
Diana, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Once again, the level of dedication you show to the chimps and their welfare leaves us in awe.
I wish you a peaceful Sunday.
So sorry that your aunt has left but she is on to another adventure. Your mutual love will help console you but all the words will not make the void better. Time will dull the pain. Thinking of you. Wanda
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your friend Linda. She will be with you in your heart always, and forever be remembered.
Most sincerely,
Caroline