3-12-2010

March 12, 2010
Dear Friends and Family,
A year ago today, we lost our wonderful daughter and grandson in a terrible truck-train accident in Hartford, Illinois. We have been supported by wonderful friends, family and church. For that we are very grateful. As we cross this moment on our journey of grief, we are reminded of all of the blessings we have received in our thirty-five year marriage. Our children and their spouses would have to be at the top of the list. Heather and Matt’s son, Jack, is also a great reminder of what the future holds for all of us. Matt is our true hero. He has done all he could do to help Jack grow and remember his mother. Matt’s family has done more than we could have asked to help him raise Jack without Heather by his side. Skylor and Christa have had the support of Christa’s Mom, sister, friends, and church. We are so grateful to those who helped raise funds for a scholarship in Heather’s name at Missouri S & T. That Scholarship will be around a long time to remind us that Heather was a caring and intelligent professional geologist, wife, and mother.
So, the question for us after a year, is now what? We have observed from many angles that life goes on and on. No matter how hard it may be, we must move on and have a full life for however long that may be. None of us know how long we have on this earth. We can assume nothing. This we know after losing our Heather: She was loved by all who knew her. We miss her more than we thought possible. We understand without question why Matt was the one Heather chose. We are amazed at the little person their Jack has become. We treasure our friends understanding and support every day. We know we are not the only ones in this world to have suffered such a loss. And... we have a lot to look forward to in the coming years. Skylor and Christa have blessed us with the news that they are expecting on September 4th of this year. We know Heather is pleased with this news as well. We see her smile in every cloud, blade of grass, and flower. All, signs of new beginnings and the coming spring.

Betty