My grandfather passed away in his sleep at my grandparent's home in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania some time during the night. He was around 85 years old and I'm told that he was not in too much pain when he died. My aunt (who also lives with them together with my uncle) called mum to let us know around 05:00 this morning. I've spoken to both of them to give my condolences but understandably, they're both very busy making arrangements for the funeral later this afternoon and with letting the rest of the family know. Two other grandchildren are in the US/Canada so it'll be at least a few more hours before news reaches them. I guess it hasn't really sunk in yet but that'll probably happen once all the immediate rush settles down. My heart and love go out to my grandmother who i think is taking it hardest of all, them having both lived and grown together for a very long time.

I'm not really sure how to feel right now. I'm sad of course that he's died, but I can't say I knew him all that well. Even though we usually visit every two years or so, I haven't really spoken to him much since our last trip back in 2007. Grandfather was ill with suspected Alzheimer’s disease, but ironically, he was reportedly getting better following a change of medication about a fortnight ago. I guess fate, or Karma, or whatever you want to call it just works in strange ways like that; either that or they just have a damned weird sense of humour. Anyway, I guess I'm feeling a little remote from it all right now, and not sure whether to be sad, fall to pieces or just be philosophical about it all and accept that these things happen and hope wherever he's moved on to on his next great adventure he's happy and free from pain.

Mum's also upset about it but I guess she's trying to brave it and continue with life as best she can (EDIT: The company she works for have been quite sympathetic about it all and have given her time off until Monday on compassionate grounds. They were quite angry that she even chose to go in in the first place. At least it's good to know they can be understanding when the need calls for it). She's not going to go over to Tanzania, even though I've said its fine by me if she does and she should go over now if she really wants to rather than possibly regret it later. I can't for obvious reasons, which I think and hope everyone will understand.

Well, I have a list of jobs from mum and for myself to work through today, and will probably spend the rest of the time fielding calls from friends and family and generally trying to move on with life with something resembling normality.

Grandfather, rest in peace, wherever you are, Ameen. We love you, always have and forever will.