The Icelandic connection - 01.12.2020, Blaðsíða 46

188
ICELANDIC CONNECTION
Vol. 71 #4
be a joy for those who were at the camp.
I recall one old timer, a man who was
getting up in age asking me if I would
play at his funeral, a favorite tune that I
played quite often. As well I was asked
on short notice less than 20 years ago to
play it at a funeral for a local lady. I played
You are My Sunshine on the harmonika.
It was starting to need a little help with
the lungs because it had a few leaks but
somehow I made it and I guess it sounded
pretty good. Through the years, I tried
my best to keep the tradition going and
if somebody wanted me to play it I was
more than willing. I wish I could still play
it but I guess it will live on with Siggi’s
spirit.
I feel so fortunate and so privileged
to have heard Siggi Ben play his old
harmonika. Whenever I pull out the old
squeeze box, I somehow feel he is still
with us in spirit and I have no doubt
his spirit will live on as long as the old
accordion endures.
As time went by, I used to take the
old squeeze box to Betel occasionally. I
played regularly on Wednesday evening
in the old Betel home. That seemed to
be really appreciated. I used to go to the
Minerva Ladies Aid annual visit as well
as the Icelandic National league annual
visit and always took Siggi along. Even
after my fingers got a little numb and stiff
it seemed that if I looked up and asked
Siggi to help me everything would work
out. I feel so blessed to have had Siggi as a
family friend and it is comforting to know
that his spirit lives on.
Consulate of
Iceland
Gordon J. Reykdal
Honorary Consul
10250 - 176 Street
Edmonton Alberta T5S 1L2
CANADA
Cell: 780.497.1480
E-mail: greykdal@gmail.com