I always see Ivan  as someone knowledgeable and observant. Once, when Ivan and Jean visited Singapore, I invited them to my apartment to stay for a few days. Ivan was curious and observed how Singaporeans went about in our daily lives. He enquired about the rubbish chute, the way I filtered the tap water, and even asked me why I needed to pluck off the leaves of the strawberries before I served them. Ivan was keen to find out and learn, perhaps that was part of the reason why he was so knowledgeable. He knew almost everything, and conversations with Ivan were always enlightening. 

Ivan's sense of humour never failed to  brighten my day whenever I was with him.  He had always been concerned whether I saw a boyfriend on the horizon and kept wondering why the shy guy at the bus stop did not initiate to befriend me. He gave suggestions, of course, and asked me to drop a handkerchief for the guy to pick up. His wittiness really tickled me! Ivan was also nice in helping me to finish up  the extra food on the table. During breakfast one morning, Jean prepared an abundance of food and I could not finish all. Jean suggsted to let Ivan eat, and I vividly remember Ivan saying jokingly, "Thank you, Poh Lin!" Sometimes, he would even make an adorable expression and said, "I'm full!" 

Ivan had been a very good example in keeping a healthy relationship in a marriage. I shared with my mum how gentle and respectful he was towards Jean. To me, Ivan possessed the qualities of a good husband and a good father.

Ivan is like a father, a teacher, and a very good friend to me. He will always live in my heart. ❤