That’s the kind of guy Peep was.
He was the kind of guy who wanted everything in properly working order. Not because he possessed the mind of an engineer or because he re-discovered a fervor for tinkering; but because he wanted everyone around him – family, friends, total strangers – to always feel contented.
For years, I met Peep for dinner at least once a week. Peep believed that much of our time together occurred by happenstance; but the truth is, I always knew where to find him – bellied up to the bar at one of his son’s restaurants, nurturing a Coors Light and just keeping an eye on things. I’d slink into the chair next to his and we’d talk for hours about life and love and history and culture. Often, it was the best part of my day.
That’s the kind of guy Peep was.
He was the kind of guy who made you feel like no matter what you were about to say, he genuinely wanted to hear it. Not because he could offer a lifetime of anecdotes or because he felt compelled to engage in social pleasantries; but because he cared. And, in his own subtle way, he wanted you to know it.
Recently, I had an intimate conversation with a friend about what he calls: yesterday’s news - the idea that when someone dies, most of us might be sad for a day or two. Then, we will return to the monotony of our daily lives, ostensibly waiting until the next catastrophe comes along. Peep Allisma, however, will never be yesterday’s news.
That’s the kind of guy Peep was.
He was the kind of guy who will always be on the minds of those who knew him. Not because of his cheeky smile or because of that hint of an Estonian accent; but because he was too great a soul with too big a heart.
So, if there is a realm beyond this one, you would be wise to bet that Peep is now bellied to the bar, nurturing a Coors Light and just keep an eye on things. Or, he is somewhere in the back, animatedly searching for a tool and cursing the temperamental thermostat.
Tony Endelman – Author – Forever Friend of Peep Allisma and Family
Preceded in death by wife, Mary Allisma. Survived by children, Tiina (Koffi) Ntchougan-Sonou and Tom (Ashley) Allisma; sister, Malle Salusoo; grandchildren, Sophia, Alexis, Koffi Jr., Rosemary and Willa; many family and friends. VISITATION Tuesday, November 24, from 4-6pm at Westlawn Hillcrest.
GRAVESIDE SERVICE Wednesday, November 25, 11am at Westlawn Hillcrest Memorial Park.
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