Memorial to Tanya Burr, killed 15 September 2002

Memorials

Hi Val,

How are you ?

I gather you're at home again in Palmerston North. Now the reality of it all will really set in. Casual remarks overheard in a supermarket like "I could have killed him" will resonate as never before. How loose we are with words sometimes... It is always said that time heals all. Partly true, I think. But there's no mention of the scar that pains in damp weather. However, the reality is that life does go on and that you still have supportive family around you and Kieran who will need you more than ever, I should think. Henry Miller wrote to GD's wife after his (George's) death that he never mourned the death of a friend because he was convinced that person had gone to a better place. We have to believe that Tanya is now in a better place.

This photo (taken by my brother-in-law) is of a candle I made from oyster shells gathered on the beach in front of our house, the beach where Russell walked. It's my way of saying I'm thinking of you and it's my memorial tribute to Tanya.

Take good care of yourself,

Erika (email from Canada dated 26 September 2002. Russell is Tanya's uncle. Erika has experienced a similar tragic death of a young adult daughter.)

Our memorial corner to Tanya, created (on our china cabinet) especially at Kieran's request. Most items are hers and came from her flat. She bought the cat mask overseas and was very proud of it. The photos are of Puffball and Phoebe and appear elsewhere on this website.

See also on a separate page: Our Memorial to Tanya outside her flat in Rotorua