Remebrances of Helen

Remebrances of Helen

07/23/2006 11:15 am
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From: Bruce Dravneek



Thoughts & Wishes :

Dear Helen,



The only bad thing about what has happened is that I will have to face you some day and ask forgiveness of you for breaking a long time promise to be here today in person to lead this celebration. Were it at all possible we would have come to join this gathering of family and friends to speak of precious memories that will linger throughout eternity.



My thoughts do not come in chronological order, and my rememberer is not what it used to be, but “I (do) thank my God for every remembrance of you!” They say that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so let me speak of the beauty I saw in you.



· Your transparency – always up front, without guile; sometimes hurting, rarely deliberately hurtful

· Your musical talent – singing with the “Faded Roses”; at the organ, trying to keep up with me and my piano playing of some unknown chorus in some strange key

· Your time – always making time to go to the nursing homes for a service, or being in your place in the Lord’s house just about every time the doors were open; over 235 years of Christian service we said – now that’s a lot of time!

· Your trustworthiness – what you said you would do, you did; a trustworthy Treasurer, be it with pennies or dollars. By the way, I still have that paycheck you gave me that April 1st for $1,000,000, signed by Ronald Reagan!

· Your taste-buds – they never failed; you never fell short of the mark at the stove; real Italian carbs – thanks so much for the calories!

· Your tenacity – resolve, stubbornness (?); your many comebacks when we thought we would lose you. You were one tough cookie!

· Your thoughtfulness – remembering us in times of laughter, and tears; gracious in giving to the Lord and your church family; always looking out for your pastor and his family

· Your thankfulness – for the little things that were done for you, as well as the bigger ones; you never forgot to say “thank you” and show thankfulness, be it with an open hand or a gentle kiss on the cheek accompanied by a warm hug.



It must be great moving without having to pack, or unpack. If you had waited a bit longer, I would have seen you once again. I’m sure you waited as long as you had to and then took the big leap in faith. It was so worth it, wasn’t it! Ronalyn told us she doesn’t want to hear us say, “Sorry about your loss!” She also speculates that you are playing an organ, and singing – probably with Josephine. Whatever - you’re in good company, and some of us may join you soon. Because we love you so, we’ll let you go, but we will not forget!



Much more could be said, but you’re finally free and don’t have to listen to my long sermons any more. “A person can have no better epitaph than that which is inscribed in the hearts of his (or her) friends.” Your epitaph has been written, in bold strokes of love.



We love you, and the family you've left behind!!!

Bruce and Carol Dravneek