August 11, 2004

Dear Edna and family,

When we moved from Willits, we left part of our hearts there, and now a big part of that is gone. It's rare in this life to find people who are true friends, friends, like Don, who know you well, yet love you anyway.

Herb was very attached to Don. He admired his upbeat, cheerful attitude and willingness to help others, which fit well with Herb's personality.

Don was a wonderful example for me, in always seeing the good in people. I had a hard time seeing any good in some of them. I'll always remember his positive outlook on whatever life brought. He never complained about things that happened, like losing the sight of his eye after cataract surgery.

Don had good insight in evaluating some hard situations that we all went through, yet he was able to give others the benefit of the doubt and lean to the side of love and forgiveness.

Our hearts ache for all of you. We'll miss him, too, and never find a friend like Don. You "kids" will all have precious memories of a dad and a granddad to be proud of-one who loved you unconditionally. Edna you can be thankful for many years of happiness with a wonderful husband. You've been an exemplary couple, and we'll find it hard to think of you without Don.

But if Don were able to comfort you all, I know he'd say, "It's O.K. I've had a good life. I'll take a little nap and meet you soon when Jesus comes."

Our words to him would be, "Goodbye, dear friend, until we meet again."

It's my prayer that we'll all be prepared to be with Don in heaven. Tommy and Randy, the family won't be complete without you. And what would we do without you, Tommy, to pester us? Don won't think it's heaven if we're not all there.

May God bless and comfort all of you in the days ahead, and give you peace.

Our love and prayers,
Lois and Herb