In Memory

I lost a dear family friend on Saturday, January 3rd. Her family isn't holding traditional services, but rather hosting a memorial website. So, rather than going to a funeral, I had to look deep inside and try to express in words to the family the impact of her life on mine. I didn't want to write this letter because I knew just how much it would hurt, to acknowledge the loss of one who leaves nothing but good memories. But it also makes me realize how thankful I am that she and her family were and are a part of my life.

This is my attempt to sum up in a short letter a lifetime of influence.


Gene and Raymond,

I just wanted to let you know how saddened I am by your loss. My prayers are with you at this time. I hope that you know just how much Dorothy and your family means to me.

There has never been a time in my life that you all weren’t there. Your family is an extension of mine and if you don’t know, I love you deeply. In thinking about what to say, many memories of Dorothy over the years come to mind. I have never not known your family. There were times when I was little that I stayed over at your house and you were like parents to me and Ray seemed like a brother. The many family vacations together and the memories of those moments stand out as bright shining rays of hope to a little girl that needed love and laughter. I remember the trip to the dude ranch, swimming in the lake, cabins in the snow and Dorothy making hot cocoa for all of us kids, frozen by the winter cold. I remember the hugs and the laughter from every vacation and trip to your house. I still have the doll Dorothy and Gene bought me from our trip to Baja when I got a stomachache from the seafood. I remember riding in the car with your family, going past the ship graveyard and the wonder I felt that something so big could be destroyed. I remember the feeling of family over shared meals, birthdays and holidays, fights between us kids, St. Bernard dog kisses, rock tumbling, and teddy bears, and mostly being tucked in at night by Dorothy when I stayed over.

I’ll never forget when Dorothy came to visit us in Arizona and how much more deeply I loved her for facing life’s hardships head on. I remember the pride she showed to me when I graduated from high school and how she truly seemed to care about who my friends were and where my life was heading. I am so thankful that during the trying times of my early adulthood, there was never judgment, but always love. There were always Christmas cards and checks for the kids. Not once did your family ever forget my kids for Christmas. I was so blessed to have both Dorothy and Gene at my wedding and her words about Lance have not left me. She was able to see into the heart of people and judge them accordingly. Her wisdom was and always will be valued. Her generosity and love got me through some tough times. Being included in your family influenced me and helped shape the person I am today. The love and encouragement that was freely given will always remain with me.

I will miss Dorothy and grieve her loss as I would grieve the loss of a mother. I love you so much. Thank you for caring for me and leaving an indelible imprint on my life. May God comfort and bless you both.

All my love,

Kimberly