Chela Draper: Gordon’s death an unimaginable loss

Chela Draper, wife of the late Gordon Draper, yesterday thanked everyone who extended support and expressions of concern to her family, in the wake of his passing. “I want to thank, particularly the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Honourable Prime Minister, Mr Patrick Manning, for his words of comfort, and the commendation of Gordon’s work as a minister in his administration,” said in a statement released yesterday. She said she was also heartened by the words of praise from Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday and Senator Wade Mark.

In the statement, Chela stated that Draper who passed away “peacefully in my arms,” died as he lived — just peacefully. “His peaceful death probably is the only measure of relief that the family feels at this time,” she said, adding: “I know that it will be a very long time before his family and friends all come to grips with the pain that we feel at this moment.” Chela said she was still in a state of disbelief. “Gordon’s passing is an unimaginable loss,” she said. Chela also placed on record her appreciation to the Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner in London, Glenda Morean and members of her staff as well as the staff at the St Mary’s Hospital in Ardington. “The overall support of persons at those institutions went beyond the call of duty, and has certainly gone a long way in easing the pain of the family at this time,” Chela said.