Ciao Marcello

It's been just over a week since Marcello passed away, and I still don't know how to put words in a row that makes sense. I know it's all cliché - but it's like this all the same: one day there is a person in your life who helps to give it colour, and the next day, he’s gone.

And you think, but it can't be. But that's the way it is, and the memories come back like waves, crashes down soaking you one minute and retreating the next.

We weren't buddies of a life time. We weren't related. We weren't colleagues. Yet we respected one another and were fond of each other. Marcello with his humble and at times awkward look, who would listen, and then, in a flash, would come out with a marvellous and genial idea. Marcello with his great vision, few have that talent to look at a house, a room, a garage, a barn and see the finished work in every little detail, foresee the obstacles, and, even before starting, find the answers…. Satisfied look in his eyes, rubbing his hands would say ... "and good night" to seal the solution found and the problem gone!

Marcello who answered all my questions and doubts, who taught me that nothing is impossible. Marcello optimistic and smiling. Marcello who always found time for everyone.

I will miss our chats in my office, between gossip and estimates, seeing your white panda parking in the square outside my door. I find it hard to accept I can't just pick up the phone and say “Ciao Marcello, it’s Tara..” You were an anchor for me.

Bye Marcello, great artist, bricklayer, engineer, architect all in one… there will never be anyone like you. Bye Marci, my very dear friend.