Hi..
For those of you that knew my Dad, you were aware of his illness.
Yesterday evening Dad passed away quickly and unexpectedly for that moment in time. It was peaceful, without any expectation that it was about to happen. Dad was so strong minded and so determined to keep pushing on despite all that was against him. He must of just changed his mind right then and there and then, he was gone. True to Dad's impulsive style.
The only solace is that he is no longer in constant excruciating pain and he would never have wanted us kids to suffer watching him go slowly. He was a proud man and so very brave. And I am proud to be his daughter.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who offered your hand in friendship and good sportsmanship to Dad and myself. Although my years of benchrest shooting were far less than most of yours, they are some of the best memories I have with Dad, cut short far too soon and it will never be the same without him.
A special thank you to Barry Warwick for your recent friendship and concern for my Dad. I know personally that he really appreciated and valued your genuine heart. Mum and I truly wish you all the very best.
Best of luck to all of you who will all be shooting in the Nationals very soon. Dad did so well last year and he really wanted to be there for this one, with a good chance of making "The Team."
He loved God right 'til the very end despite everything he was going through and he was never shy to admit it.
He may have lost this battle, but he has won the war.
And now he can rest in peace.
Thank you all for your thoughts and concerns throughout this journey.
Charlie Leonardis
-xo-
Further arrangements will be organised tomorrow and notification will be listed via The Advertiser.
Nicola Leonardis
4.10.49 - 17.3.15
65 years young
Deepest condolences. Charlie Bev and family. May Nick rest in peace.
Jim
A sad day for me, I wish I had met Nick earlier than I had in my life, a fine man with a ton of principal, honor and faith in God even as Charlie has said "in death"
I really am lost for words here, but would like to wish Bev and all the family 'please' the very best under just horrible circumstances in life God bless you all .
Barry Warwick.
Barry
I was on the same bench as Nick at the Nationals last year, and I watched him shoot extremely well.
RIP
Rob.
BB Administrator
Thank you Jimmy, Barry, Rob & David for your condolences.
It has been a very long 1 month for me. A huge opportunity for reflection but still very hard to process.
We gave Dad a fantastic send off, packed with tributes & loving sentiments for a man who left behind a much bigger footprint than he could have possibly ever realised or gave himself credit for.
Your words were very much appreciated.
So, thank you.
Charlie
Charlie Leonardis