Kenneth Coombs

As I sit at my table writing this, I can see his small square box positioned on the side of the fireplace mantel, waiting silently and patiently.

The gathering began on Sunday and grew from only a few until it reached that magical number of twelve. Lifelong friends traveled from around the corners of the world at an urgent pace with hopes of a timely arrival. With each new member, the chatter grew and tales of rail travel and memories of good times with Ken were added to this ongoing and ever-growing tribute.

Tuesday morning heralded the last arrivals to his celebration of life. His bed was in the center of the room, and just next to the back wall. No tubes restricted the movement of his arms and legs, and only small, obscure Band-Aids remained. His head could turn freely from side to side. His mind was sharp, and his keen memory and ability to speak were not afflicted by his ailments. Hospice managed any pain. Surrounded by the faithful 12, sitting in a semi-circle around his bed, he fully participated in each storytelling, adding details long forgotten by the teller. Laughter filled the room as the "best" parts of each tale were recited.

This is how the party for the departing one started on Monday afternoon and continued through Tuesday night. The hours quickly passed for Ken. As many rail travel tales were offered up, pictures of trains, special rides, and memorabilia were displayed. Names of other travelers, unable to attend and share in this celebration of life, were remembered. Food was ordered and delivered to avoid any disruption of the gala.

Early Wednesday morning, Ken moved on to his next stop. For final remembrances and farewells, our group of twelve reassembled later that afternoon at Ken's favorite restaurant where we feasted on the offerings of Nepal and toasted our good friend and shared more "rail travel adventures".

The small square box will carry him in the final leg of his life long trip to New Hampshire. His rail business partner, with whom he had a deep-rooted friendship, will return his ashes to the railroad he owned and loved.

Lee Green, LeeGreenWritings@Gmail.com