My dad just called me twenty minutes ago to tell me that his sister's husband of 45 yrs died last night.

jesus.

They have six kids and lots of grandkids.

Last year my step-mom's mom passed away a week before xmas. And ten years ago my own mother's father died three weeks before xmas.

crappy.

Condolences, Jen. I hope that you guys can still have a nice Christmas - have everyone focus on pleasant remembrances of your Great Uncle.

Wow, I'm so sorry to hear that. My condolences, Jen. And ditto what Colin said.

Sympathies.

Well said.

Best of luck, Jen. Hope you, Josh and Charli - and your extended family - still have great holiday.

The worst part will be finding the presents that he bought for everyone and opening them.

Edit: sorry, that's not going to cheer you up...

For about 5 years in a row there was a death in my family during the holidays. Both my Grandfathers died on Boxing Day. It was getting to the stage were you're thinking "shit! Who is it this year!". It kinda takes the Merry out of Merry Christmas. Fortunately we've gone about 3 years now without a fatality. Touch wood.

I used to work in insurance and there was always a big spike in deaths around this time of year. I dunno if it's because it's mid-winter or it's just a stressful time of year but it's all to common.