Heath Mason
1974- 1996
Heath was a son, brother, husband, uncle, friend and student. To me he was my brother. When we were young he was what most younger brothers are supposed to be…a pest. He loved to tease, spy and argue with me. I always knew he was going to be strong, he played sports better than most, he was bigger and taller than most, he was outspoken, independent, brave and he was a leader. He had a presence that was real; you always knew that he would tell it like it is. He wasn’t concerned with what other people thought, he was confident and even sometimes a bit cocky.
That is why on February 27th, 1996 when I got that horrific phone call from my dad that Heath was “gone” it seemed impossible. How could a boy so big, so strong, so brave be killed in a car. He was the last person I could ever imagine getting hurt, I mean he had become in my eyes, my “Big, little brother”. A car couldn’t hurt him? This must not be true…
It was.
The years after Heath’s death I came to realize he knew something that most of us don’t. Sure, we’ve all heard it, read on Hallmark cards, “Life is Short, Live Life to the fullest, Everyday is a gift”…. In his short 21 years, he really lived, he hadreal friendships, he stood up for you, had your back always. As a son Heath was close to his parents, he didn’t wait like most of us to do this when they get older, he spent time with them and wasn’t afraid to express how much he loved them. As a husband, yep that’s right a husband, Heath didn’t mess around and shy away from commitment like most boys his age, he knew what love was and wasn’t going to wait, he married the love of his life. As an uncle he played ball with you and carried your pictures in his wallet and made sure you got the biggest stuffed bear when you were born. As a student at OSU Heath took school seriously, so seriously he gave up baseball and was going to be an Architect. As a brother, 14 and 4 years younger than his siblings Heath was a friend, hung out with you, watched sports together, listened to music with you, saw movies together. For me he also was a protector, like brothers are supposed to be (he had the best role model for this) he loved me fiercely and I knew it!
Heath Mason was also an Organ Donor. His life was full and because of his generous spirit he was able to give that gift of life to someone else. This is not something many 21 year olds even think about, but Heath did. He knew he had a lot to share in this life and he didn’t waste a minute of it.
We honor him and walk together.
Wow honey, beautifully written and brought tears to my eyes. You really painted a picture of the kind of person Heath was. Your brother would be proud.
ReplyDeleteJer
Deana,
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tribute to your brother and an encouragement to be an organ donor. I'm sure he is watching over you and misses you as much as you miss him. xoxo , Sue Castle
You captured the essence of Heath entirely with your words. Thank you for such a amazing tribute! Brigit Zaksek
ReplyDeleteYou nailed it little sis. Even though he was my little brother, he was still the man. Love you.
ReplyDeleteDeana,
ReplyDeleteYou couldn't have been more right. Spot on.
Love you. Jenny
What a beautiful tribute to your brother, it brought tears to my eyes for such a young life taken so soon.He seemed like a wonderful person. Love you, Saghar Saadat.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Kerri and I too just lost my baby brother Kent in a car accident. He was 5 years younger. He was my best friend my protecter, a role model for my four sons. Almost in every way you described your brother in this remarkable tribute is how I would describe mine. I felt so compelled to reachout and express that. The part about living life to the fullest just was so like Kent as well he told us he loves us everyday, he had friendships that were remarkable and was truley there for his friends and family he didnt take any of that for granted as well. I am honored that Kent gave the gift of ..LIFE too! I think of the recipents everyday. In my brothers whole life he gave it only made sense that he would give the ultimate one on his way home. I couldnt read this without telling you Heath was an incredible person and I to feel lucky to have a brother just like yours! Sincerly, Kerri
ReplyDeletekgierhart44@aol.com
I dont take the word brother lightly. If I call you brother,you are and there is a reason. I'm older than David Heath Mason.But I looked up to him.R.I.H. Heath,my brother, I love you.
ReplyDeleteIf there is one thing faster than light, it is memory, which can be blessing or curse. The more it once mattered, the faster, clearer and more real it comes, often unbidden upon us. Often, the best action is to live with it, slow down with it, cry with it. I regret not knowing Heath, even though that knowing would have meant sad memories. My thoughts linger, on those who live that memory today, comforted by the life Heath lived and the fine young man he was. Respect...
ReplyDeleteHeath was an angel walking on earth. I had the opportunity to live close to him growing up. I watched Heath in school make time for everyone. Especially those who needed someone to listen. Heath always gave a positive perspective. Everyday I wish I could have been as kind as he was. I am now 46 and cannot say that I have met a more kind or gentle soul. Heath was so athletic, strong and physically able to do anything and everything but his real talent was caring for everyone. Looking back, Heath was an angel full of love. God needed Heath for something new is the only way I can fathom him being taken away so abruptly. I hope his family gets to see this post. Hopefully this confirms their thoughts. He was so special.
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