Thursday, June 05, 2008

Sad News

This morning I am writing from the lobby of a hotel in Festus, MO. Chris and the kids are getting around and we'll be meeting with her sisters, their families and her dad for breakfast in a bit.

Chris' mom ended her long battle with cancer on Wednesday morning. The funeral will be on Saturday. Chris has been here since last Saturday. The kids and I returned home Monday evening and then drove back yesterday after Chris' call. I don't know what today will hold since most of the arrangements have already been made.

Mike, you can expect a call and a trip to Ted Drewe's either today or tomorrow. (I did manage a late trip to TD's Sunday night but didn't know if I should call at 11pm.)

I know that the coming days will be hard for my father-in-law. They were married for 50+ years. It is such a cool thing tho see the outpouring of love from their friends and church family. I'll have to make it a point to keep in touch with Chris' dad more over the coming weeks and months.

I hate to leave you with such a downer post so when you have a few minutes (like 14) take a look at this video. Grab a Kleenex or two and think about the impact that you might have on the lives of the people that you encounter every day.

Live well,
John

9 comments:

Bilbo said...

I lost my mother seven years ago, and so I can relate to what Chris (and you) must be feeling. I'm very sorry for your loss, but I know that your love for each other will help you through this difficult time. Eventually, it gets better.

MSU gal said...

It's odd that I checked your blog this morning. I am on my way to a funeral for a friend.

I am sorry to hear of your loss. God bless and keep your family in his care.

Anonymous said...

Love you guys lots... I'll be keeping Chris' family in my prayers.

Kevin Gilmore said...

John,

I'm sorry for your loss. I'm glad your father-in-law has such good support.

Yes, the video was a well spent 14 minutes. Thank you.

Kevin

John A Hill said...

Thanks all, for your thoughts and prayers

Mike said...

Bummer.

I'm usually up past midnight. Call anytime. I'll email you my cell phone.

Sicilian said...

Your post made me tear up again. . . . . it has not been a year yet since I lost my mom. . . . I am so sorry. .. . I can only say that after watching my mom suffer for a year. . . . I was relieved that the pain was over. . .. God Bless you and yours.
Ciao

Amanda said...

John, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It must be such a hard time for you and your family.

Richard's mother passed away about 3 years ago after a terrible time with Parkinsons (yes, a supposedly manageable disease). It really helped to know that she wasn't suffering anymore.

Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

John A Hill said...

Thanks again for everyone's thoughts and prayers.

Visitation today, funeral tomorrow then back home and back to getting on with living life.