And so I have departed. I hope it was a good death.

I despise the usual obits, so I am offering some final thoughts. To my remaining family, I loved you dearly although I didn't say that often enough.

I was fortunate to have three very special women be part of various stages of my life. Each was smart, beautiful and lovely in every way, and enriched my life. I treasured our time together.

I tried to live a life of adventure and discovery-intellectually and personally. I was fortunate to travel to many parts of the world and taste the cultures of many nations. It was not a timid life.

I loved the passion of creating my books, newspaper and magazine articles, record albums, radio and TV shows and more. I hope generations to come will always discover their creative skills.

Unknown to most, I spent much of my life in pain and endured ten major surgeries with as much dignity and stoicism as possible. It was not always a happy time. The lesson is to be resilient; everybody has tough times.

I believe that public service is noble and that I left my city a little better than when I began. I don't think London is reaching its potential. The city needs to have a passionate conversation about its priorities and future.

I liked most of my life. We make difficult decisions in our lives and must accept the consequences with grace. A lot of good people touched my life and I am grateful to each of them, especially my sisters Lorraine Harvie and Valerie Jean (VJ) Hume and dear friend Carol Stephenson.

I have been cremated, but there will be a little get together for visiting at Harris Funeral Home, 220 St. James Street, on Sunday, October 18 from 2-5 pm. On Monday, October 19 at 11 am, memories will be shared at the London Hunt and Country Club, and I expect Scotch will be there during a reception after. Memorial contributions to the London Public Library, Parkwood Hospital or St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation would be appreciated.