Our friend down the road, Neal. He was a great guy. He passed away earlier this year, and when the funeral was on, we ended up doing the food for them. While we were there, a few people asked us if we had gone to the visitation, and we didn’t because we got to visit with Neal, who lived 7 doors down the street, in his final weeks and his final days. Everything that we made, helped make that transition for him and his family that little bit easier. Not only because it was one less thing to worry about but it was just … it’s difficult to explain. It’s not your last meal but it’s the comfort of knowing… I mean growing up as kids we all think about the foods that we enjoy and a lot of that can be reassuring. To be able to help a person at that peaceful time of their final journey, is a privilege. To make them their favourite foods when they need it most; is truly a real honour.
The bond that was made between me and the family, I simply can’t put that into words. That to me is important. It’s not what you have, it’s what you give. It’s like sending a letter. Physically writing one. No need to get a fancy card that will cost you 4–5 dollars. Just writing it out by hand on a piece of paper - you have the grammatical errors, the scribbles, and all. It’s about taking the time, and doing it. That’s what I get from working with food and being able to give that to people. Everyone has to eat.
Ian Rodger - Banquet Chef