Dad did well through the night. He was up one time but it was uneventful. Kirk spent the night again just in case he was needed. Alicia had to help Dad eat breakfast this morning, but he did eat quite a bit.
Alicia, Kirk, Mom, Dad, and I went to see the doctor this morning to see if we were going to do another round of chemo. Dad’s platelet level had dropped considerably. With this drop and other factors, the doctor said he felt that we had done all we could do. As he was talking with us, the doctor became very emotional. This doctor has now spent a lot of time helping both Mom and Dad with cancer over the years. It was obvious that they have become more than just patients. He was very kind and tried to comfort us as much as possible. After that another doctor came in and met with us for a bit. He tried to give us an idea of what the future held and told us about hospice. This afternoon Alicia, Mom, and I met with a very nice nurse from hospice. She wanted to learn a little about our family and set up a schedule.
This afternoon Dad asked if he could sit outside. It was a beautiful sunny day. We set up two chairs and Dad and I sat on the deck for about an hour. Very few words were said, most of the time he closed his eyes and enjoyed the sun. Dad has always enjoyed being outside in the sun – hence his love for convertibles.
Dad is too weak to see people but he loves hearing from you. We want to take it one step further! We feel the best tribute we can give Dad is to hear what you, his friends, say about him. We are asking for everyone to write a story, funny moment, or something you learned from Dad. We are making a book of this blog for the kids and grandkids and want as many stories as we can get. Nothing is too small!!
You can post your stories by clicking on “comments” at the bottom of this post and signing in or selecting “anonymous.” If that does not work, you can email your comment to me at teague@bengtzen.com and I will put it on the blog for you.
While our family is very sad, many of us have had strong, spiritual, peaceful feelings that our Heavenly Father needs Dad more than we do.
Mom said something the other day that stuck with me. She said she didn’t want anyone in our home to be depressed or negative because “that is not who this family is.” Our family is following the lead of our incredible mother and remaining positive and looking for the good.
Mom, Dad, Brena, and Jaxon (Cory's kids)
Mom and Dad this afternoon
Dad and I sat outside for about an hour.
Dad just sat with his eyes closed enjoying every second of the sun.
Hi Bengtzen Family,
ReplyDeleteSo, I have one story to pass along about Gary and his sense of humor. A bunch of years ago when Gary was Bishop he called me as young men's president. As the president I met with the Bishop frequently to discuss the priests and proposed activities. While discussing one activity I commented that if Gary had a real vehicle like a truck or SUV he could help drive the youth on the summer camp. Gary looked at me with pity in his eyes and said, "honestly, Leland can you see me driving a pickup truck?" Then he just walked away. Several weeks later while at a BYC, Gary looked at me and looked at my Timberland unfinished boat shoes and commented, "Tell me Leland, do you have any real church shoes in your wardrobe?" My answer: "Honestly Bishop, can you see me wearing wingtips?" We had a good laugh about our completely opposite styles.
God speed and blessings as you go through this ordeal.
Leland Myers
PS: Vern Jenkins asked me to convey his love. I told him about the blog; he asked what is a blog? I said it was on the computer. He looked at me one more time as if to ask, "What's a computer?" So I said I would pass his love and message along.
What haven't we learned from Gary Bengtzen? Compassion, joy, unconditional love, testimony, faith. It's hard to start a list because it would take a dictionary to finish it. There is not one negative word to describe Gary. What a great man you are! What a great wife you have, and what a legacy you'll leave for the rest of us. We love you Bengtzen family. If every man were like Gary, there would be true peace on earth!
ReplyDeleteAll our love,
Robyn and Jason
My son goes to Raynee's preschool, and I can't say enough about the spirit in that home or what it has meant for my son and family.
ReplyDeleteThe few times I've crossed paths with Gary, I've seen him helping: getting coins for Raynee to drop in the pool for swimming lessons, greeting guests at the preschool program, finding a seat for my grandma so she could see the Nativity.
My 5-year-old prays for your family every night, and I hope the faith you've nurtured in him will be multiplied and returned to you, bringing strength at this tender time.
I love you like a brother.
ReplyDeleteTim
My daughter goes to Raynee's preschool and along with Anne I have felt so grateful to have her in your home. Your home truly is a home of joy.
ReplyDeleteI haven't had many interactions with Gary, but what I have seen is a husband who truly gives joy and support to his wife in all she is doing. I was so impressed to see such a strong man giving such unfailing support to his wife. It is beautiful.
- Emily Gray
Please know you will all be in our prayers.
I have always been impressed with how much a gentlemen Gary is, always so attentive to his family. I never saw him where he did not ask me how I was doing. He truly cares about people. And it shows in what a wonderful family he has. He has been like a father to my son (Rick) and I appreciate that so very much.
ReplyDeleteOn the humorous side, I can remember he did something at the Jack in the Box when we were all in California for one of Brittani's swim meets and we were all laughing so hard. Ashlie remined me of this time this morning but we could not remember exactly what it was that happened (Rick or Alicia maybe you can). I just remember he made us all laugh so hard.
Just want you to know I love you all and my heart goes out to you. Keep a smile on you face and remember all the good in people and you have a great family.
Love you
Leslie M
I have been following your sweet blog all along & have been so impressed by everyone in your amazing family! I just wanted to say that Nolan & I love you & everyone in your family. My favorite memory is of Gary & Raynee supporting Alicia at Lotoja, you guys were the cutest support crew ever! Thank you for your friendship. My heart goes out to you!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Amanda Finlayson
We love you guys so much. I remember just last fall going to the Bengtzen house for the annual Dinner Group swim party. Gary was so thoughtful and moved around the poolside watching my two little boys (3yr old Timshel and 2yr old James) to make sure that they were okay. He did it quietly, and deliberately, and did not need to be asked. I know this is like all the services he gives to others - quiet, deliberate, and selfless. Thanks for so many great memories and laughs and kindnesses. We are praying for you, Gary, and for all your family to feel peace and love in the embrace of our Savior at this time. Love, Tiffany Ivins Spence & Mitch, Timshel, James, and Kaya
ReplyDeleteHey you two - you are and have always been the most positive people I know. We know how much you love the Lord and we also know how many things you've done to serve Him. He will always bless you - We love you - Fred and Gayle
ReplyDeleteGary & Raynee - I've been commenting every day and haven't ever seen the comments so I asked Natalie to see what I'm doing wrong and now I hope you'll be getting them. Sorry that everything I've said in the past wasn't posted but I hope you know how much we love you - Gayle
ReplyDeleteI think the CONNOLLY'S need some of the BENGTZEN family's amazing strength--this blog has been so sweet and tender and a real testimony builder as well. Thank heaven for the gospel of Jesus Christ and the great plan of happiness that is there for all of us. We have many great memories of our time spent with Gary and Raynee--from quiet dinners together, to the craziness of several SUMMIT'S and all that goes into them, time at the Swalihi branch, many YSA region activities,showers for McCall and Tracy, fun by your pool side--yes many memories, but not near enough. We love you both so much! Our prayers and faith stand firmly with you and your family and all those of us who love you. Dean and Joan
ReplyDeleteI worked for/with Gary for over 13 years at RMP. During that time, we became very close and good friends. At a particular difficult time in my life (my family was going through a legal custody battle), I was struggling and he was keenly aware of it. As I sat in my office one morning, Gary walked in with 5 or 6 other employees. He shut the door and with tears in his eyes, asked me if I would like a blessing. By now and with tears in my eyes, I told him I could really use that. He gave me a blessing and a hug and let me know there were many people supporting me. My spirits were lifted and it was such a comfort. Gary's favorite pen is a Pentel black smooth roller ball pen. He had me buy them by the boxes for him. His handwriting could win an award. We all knew Gary just made work home when he'd take off his shoes and walk around in his stockings. Most of us would soon follow! Each fall when it would start to rain, we'd laugh as we set buckets out to catch water coming through the same old leaks in the roof and we'd make the annual call to the landlord to see if they could come over and fix the leaks. Gary made it a point to walk around RMP everyday and say hello to everyone. He has the greatest respect for his country. He had a flag pole installed at RMP and we flew the U.S & State of Utah flags for years and he made sure we always replaced them when they were worn out. The old flags went to Scout troops so they could learn how to properly dispose of old flags. Gary, Teague & Raynee made sure that every single employee of RMP got acknowledged during their birthday month with a company birthday party and their choice of treats. The presses would stop and all employees were called to the front office to celebrate for a few minutes. Gary, Raynee & Teague made sure that RMP had a wonderful Christmas party and summer party every year. For many years, the summer party was held in their own back yard. Gary & Raynee invited my wife and I to help participate in the sesquicentennial celebration of the pioneers entering the valley. My heart was deeply touched by this and it was an absolute joy working with them for that celebration. Not many people know this, but Gary almost became a cowboy - RMP was owed money and Gary took into consideration trading printing for a horse. After a lengthy drive up the canyon to locate the horse, he finally came back and we decided we'd just rather have a check! We dearly missed Gary & Raynee while they served their mission in France, but knew they were where they should be. These are but a few of the memories I have that will last forever. Gary, thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything.
ReplyDeleteDanny
Memories are God's gift to us all. Without them, our lives would be pretty dull wouldn't they? I mean if you could not recall good times and even sad times, if they were lost forever, how awful that would be.
ReplyDeleteHeavenly Father has blessed us with the ability to say "Oh remember when we did this? Or 'Wasn't that an amazing Christmas last year?" or 'I remember when ... " and we can all chip in and share in that memory.
Gary has made and is making priceless memories for you all. What a joy that will be to you all. Your memories will be sweet and without regret.
I have many memories of Gary and Raynee. Having children who have been taught by Raynee through the swimming lessons. What pleasant summer days those were, watching her throw my little sweeties off the diving board LOL. (for their own good of course) :}}}
I once enlarged a picture of four or five kids bawling their eyes out at the side of the pool, because they were afraid to do what she asked them to do.
Raynee displayed it in her family room for many years.
But, those same children, at the end of the summer were swimming like little fishes, and having a blast. They had finally trusted her enough to do what she asked, and there were big smiles at the end of the summer. (And grateful parents)
When Gary was the Bishop, he was a constant support. Without his help, I'm not sure I would have survived the trials I went through at that time. If fact, without his support and him being in my corner, I know it would have been impossible to deal with. He was always available day or night, when I needed advice or help.
I'll be eternally grateful for his kindness and caring.
Many times as I've sat on my front porch, watching my children play I've seen Gary zooming down Filmore on his way home ... with the top down on his cool car ... going as fast as the speed limit would permit, (maybe a little faster, but ... shhh)
It seemed to me he drove a little faster going south than when he drove north on Filmore Street. He wanted to be home with his family. That is where his heart is and where it always has been.
What more blessing can you have than a husband and father who hurries home each night to be with his children and his wife? There is nothing sweeter and more tender.
I'm grateful for my memories of Gary.
I'm saddened that this trial has come upon him and upond you all.. I'm so sad that he's had to suffer and be in such pain.
I know that Heavenly Father must need him. We might say why now? why at this time? why must this strong giant of a man have to leave his family and his beautiful sweetheart? I don't know, but I think in time, all will be revealed and it will make sense to us.
One thing I will miss about Gary is his chuckle, it's really cute. He has a great sense of humor and is always smiling. I'm sorry he never will get the chance to go from the dark side and become a BYU fan though. However, in his honor I've decided to not jeer at the Utes anymore. When they are playing another team, I'll root for them, it won't be easy, but I'll do it!
But when they are playing BYU, then all bets are off.
I'm happy to know him and happy to be called a friend.
I love you both Gary and Raynee, I don't know much more to say today, except thanks for the memories, for the good times, for sticking with me through the bad times and for being such wonderful people.
We all need great examples in our lives. People who we can look up to and strive to be like.
You guys are the bomb.com!
We love you so much and our prayers are ever with you.
Sally and Chipper
When the Bengtzens were serving their mission in France, thay had once a week a french class. I was the one assigned to teach it, and also a girl from California name Jana. Sister Bengtzen was always very optimistic to learn new things, and Elder Bengtzen didn't like it as much as her, but he was always in class and participated. I have to add that as that class was given in the Institute Building we started and finished it with a prayer (in french obviously).
ReplyDeleteOne day elder Bengtzen wasn't really in a mood to learn anything that has to do with french, so he was really honest and said something like "I'm not doing anything today". His decision was respected and he wasn't ask to participate in that class, he just stayed in the classroom without saying a word.
Before the class was over I asked him to say the closing prayer. I knew he wouldn't say no to a prayer ( He was a missionary!!!) I won't forget his face when I ask him to pray, I'm sure he wasn't expecting it because he was really serious when he said he wouldn't do ANYTHING (I'm not even sure if he was listening to the class). As you would imagine he prayed. I can't remember if he said it in french or english.
Right after his prayer he smiled because he finally did something in the class.
Angie
I have been following the blog now for a couple of weeks. I have been so impressed by the strength of your family, during such a difficult time. You are such wonderful examples to us all!!
ReplyDeleteI loved the Valentines Day post. Gary and Raynee your love and devotion is AMAZING! Gary I want you to know what an amazing man I think you are. I learned quickly while working for you that you were honest, patient, kind and the most caring boss I have ever known. I have never seen such love for employees that you had for those of us who worked at RMP. You are a wonderful example to everyone around you. You have always reminded me so much of my dad (he is the best dad ever!). Everyone who comes in contact with you can feel your awesome spirit. You are an amazing man and I thank you for all that you did for Jake and I when we were first starting out.
Now for the fun Gary story....... When I was working at RMP our first child was born. I was working full time and still trying to nurse Mack. During the two breaks I would go into a room and pump. Gary had a small fridge in his office and he let me keep the milk in his fridge. Every Friday at RMP was doughnut day, I delivered Gary's doughnut and then went back to work. I then had to deliver some papers to
Gary's office as soon as I came in he said thanks for the doughnut and milk. Since I am mostly blond I was confused, what milk I said he said the milk you put in my fridge. He had a straight face then burst out laughing. I was a little stunned I hadn't seen this side of Gary before. Of course it goes without saying Gary didn't drink the breast milk, but the mental image is awesome! I have gone back to this memory several times through the years and I still laugh every time.
Gary & Raynee I love you guys. I am so grateful for your friendship through the years. Thank You!! My prayers and thoughts are with you and you family during this difficult time.
Love-
Jen Wakley
Where do I start? There isn't much that Gary hasn't taught me over the years. The first contact I had of Gary and Raynee was at RMP. The first day Gary was there full time working, I got a call from this lady and I asked if I could tell Gary who was calling and she said to me "Tell him that it is his mistress and make sure everyone hears it." I honestly didn't know if she was joking or telling the truth. So I went in and told him this in front of several others and he just started to laugh. He picked up the call and I later learned of course that it was his incredible wife Raynee.
ReplyDeleteThe lady in yesterday's post indicated that their love is unmatched by anyone and that is do true. I remember walking in on the two of them kissing just a few days after the phone call and I was embarassed but pleased to see the outward emotion and love between the two of them and it has given me hope for todays world and that true love isn't lost upon this earch.
Gary taught me so many things through the years. He taught me all about printing and helped me acquire the love for that industry and get that ink in my blood that will never go away. I have never looked at a printed piece of paper the same way again. He taught me about love and patience and how very important they are in both personal and professional life.
I can remember a few things he told us in our monthly sales meetings like, never move anything around your desk twice, if you pick it up, put it where it goes. Maybe it sounds like a silly little thing, but every time I pick up a piece of paper on my desk and move it from one place to another, I remember his words. They were always full of wisdom and if only I followed them, I wouldn't have so many piles of unknown papers on my desk. Sorry, Gary. I'll do better.
Gary's example has always shown what a man of high integrity he has always been. One of the first things we did when he started at RMP was to find out where we needed to register our phones hold music was at and get that taken care of. I didn't really understand at first, but did you know that you are supposed to have a license to play music on hold on your phones so that you aren't breaking copyright laws. I didn't and I don't know that most people would even think about it, but he wanted to make sure we were being very honest in the business we were in and in every aspect of our business and that is the kind of person that Gary is. Honest and of very high moral character. How can you not love that kind of a person.
Gary and Raynee and family have been family to me and were there for me through so much of the various trials in my life. He was there for me when I watched my own mother suffer from this very same disease that now racks him and what a comfort he was to me through that very difficult time. When she passed away Gary was a great support to me as they have been through so many difficulties from personal tragedies to wonderful blessings like the adoption of my sons. What an incredible group of people.
His courageousness through this battle has been amazing and the love and support of his children has been incredible to watch. I am so thankful that I have had the great pleasure of knowing each of you these past 16 years. You are all an inspiration to so many. I truly appreciate your sharing these very difficult times with all of us no matter how painful I know this is for all of you. You lift us all up by sharing your deep pain and love for this incredible man.
All my love,
Linda Mathews
Well, if nothing is too small, then I must leave a comment! I've been reading the blog since its inception and I've found the examples of love and optimism within your family to be amazing and inspiring.
ReplyDeleteThe gatherings at Gary and Raynee's house during the summer I stayed with Teague's family were a blast; I always marvel at grandparents who have the enthusiasm and stamina of little kids! I also so appreciated their generosity and inclusiveness. I'll always remember that time fondly.
Love and best wishes,
Hannah
I first met Gary and Raynee when we moved to the Imperial I Ward while Gary was the Bishop. Our family lived there for 11 years. Like Sally and many others, Raynee also taught my girls to swim. We still laugh our guts out about the time Raynee was putting the kids in the deep end of the pool. My oldest daughter, who was about 5 at the time, started running away while screaming at the top of her lungs, "HELP ME, she's trying to kill me!!!!" She run way up the street by the time we could catch her. I am sure that was a great morale booster for all the other kids in the class! Regardless, my girls learned to love the water and are excellent swimmers! Though they were very young they remember Raynee so fondly!
ReplyDeleteI have such special memories of living there and the wonderful friendships we made. While living there we went through some extremely trying circumstances as a family. I will never forget how Bishop Bengtzen went out of his way to help us. One of my favorite quotes is from Spencer W. Kimball..."God does notice us, and HE watches over us but it is usually through others that he meets our needs." He can't be there so he sends others to administer to us in our times of need. How grateful I am to Bishop Bengtzen (and Bishop Burdett after him) who listened and then acted and made all the difference in the world for us. How do you even begin to say thank you for that?!?!! I don't know the words!!! I still get so choked up when I think about the many acts of selfless service in our behalf.
I have always been so touched by the love and devotion displayed between Gary and Raynee. My parents too have that special something. I probably took it for granted that most people did, until I grew up! Some of my friends and I were talking about this once and started listing couples that we felt had that deep, enduring love. We were surprised how few couples we could come up with but Gary and Raynee were right at the top of the list!!!!
I was a single Mom for a few years and then got remarried to a wonderful man. We ran into Raynee at a friends wedding. After I introduced my husband to Raynee he remarked, "WOW, her spirit is bigger than life!" So TRUE, and he could feel that the instant he met her.
To all the Bengtzen kids. I watched you grow up and remember cutting some of your hair. How special it is to see what amazing adults you have all become! I have followed the blog from the beginning and want to thank you for so selflessly sharing your inner most tender thoughts and feelings. I have laughed and cried right along with you as you have shared your sweet pictures and your thoughts as you have been experiencing this. You have helped those who are reading to know what very SPECIFIC things to pray for. I have loved the feeling of knowing that I am combining efforts in that manner with SO many others who also love your family. Please know what a difference you have made in the lives of SO MANY!!!
We love you Gary and Raynee and all the Bengtzen family. I know that God is aware of you and watching over you all.
With Much Love,
Lisa McFadden
I posted this on my own blog with a picture of Gary and Raynee...somehow it seemed appropriate to repost it here as well. Love you all.
ReplyDeleteLezli
My uncle Gary and Aunt Raynee. They are amazing, wonderful people that I am privileged to call family. I wasn't raised with them, but that never mattered to either one of them. The love they have for each other and for everyone they wrap their arms around (literally and figuratively) is definitely something out of this world.
Not long ago, my uncle Gary was diagnosed with cancer...and this week, the doctors told him and his sweetheart and kids that they had done all they could do. And while he and his family are as at peace with the eventuality of his death as they can possibly be, I am having a harder time. I know it's not my place to understand the Lord's ways. Or His timetable. I get that. However, as with my father (Gary's brother, who died nearly 17 years ago after only being an active part of my life for 8 months...long story), I want more time. And I want it now. I don't want to wait for eternity to sit with him and listen to his stories and words of wisdom and encouragement.
In a few sacred moments Sunday morning, I had the opportunity to watch my phenomenal uncle do one of the things he does best...love. I watched him fight through pain and confusion to be as present as possible for the minutes we spent together. I watched him marshal his fading resources to make an unforgettable joke about the ridiculous medical mask I had to wear in order to keep him and his family from catching whatever is causing my nasty cough. I felt his hand in mine (so like my father's hand those many years ago), squeezing gently to let me know that he knew I was there, that I loved him, and that he loved me. He didn't have many words for me...good thing we didn't need them. And when I reluctantly released his hand and turned to go, he simply said, "Thank you," and shot me a tired but familiar grin as he settled back to rest. I think we both knew it was the last conversation we were likely to have on this side of the dirt. And neither of us ended it with goodbye...because it isn't. He knows that, and because he is confident, I could be too for that brief time.
In those same sacred moments, I watched my aunt do one of the things she does best too...love. I watched her tender care and concern for my uncle. I saw her doing little things to ensure his comfort. I felt her connection to him that transcends all of this mortal nonsense and becomes something larger than life, and was humbled and honored by the experience. I heard her sweet reassurances that all would be well, and her quiet faith that things were as they should be, and that they would be together again, well and whole, when it was time. Her simple confidence in the Lord's plan lifted and supported me at a time when I expected and wanted to be lifting and supporting her. What a precious gift she is to me.
I don't pretend to have answers about much of anything these days, and I've gone on record with mortals and the Lord that I don't like this one bit. But if I can figure out how to come by even one-tenth of the kind of love and peace that Uncle Gary and Aunt Raynee show and have shown so clearly for as long as I have known them, I'm pretty sure I'll count that as a victory.
I love you, Uncle Gary. I'll be on the team that watches out for your sweetheart and the rest of your crew when it's time for you to go. Thank you for teaching me so much even now. Forever, for always, and no matter what.
A Shoe Thief! We met Gary at Alicia & Rick's house Christmas 2009 one evening preparing stockings for the trip to Mexico. After all the fun filling up the stockings together, Gary and Raynee left to go back to Salt Lake. When we went to leave, my husband, Mike, put his shoes back on and they didn't feel quite right? After a closer inspection, he realized that they were not his shoes afterall. We asked Alicia what could have happened to Mike's shoes, she thought about it and then laughed and said, "I think my Dad's shoes look like that too." Sure enough, after a quick phone call, Gary realized that he had put Mike's shoes on instead of his own and had left wearing them. Luckily, Gary & Raynee hadn't gotten too far and came back to Rick & Alicia's to swap shoes with Mike, for his own, and then were on their way again. We all had a good laugh about this mistaken shoe theft! Following that first meeting, we have met again several times at swim meets, and at this year's Bake Sale for Mexico, and always, we have enjoyed our associations with Gary & Raynee. I have felt the love they have in their home & the love of this great family. Though short, our acquaintance with the Bengtzen family has been a delight! Thank you for sharing this difficult journey with everyone of us through this blog. Our prayers are for your joy & comfort.
ReplyDeleteMichael & Brooks Wynn
Gary brought a wonderful moment of levity to a meeting during some of the more stressful times of the most recent company transition. Having been through one not so pleasant company change, followed by a second that was even less pleasant was starting to take its toll on me. So much so I had broke down crying during the last meeting I had with Gary.
ReplyDeleteA follow up meeting was called for with Gary, my direct boss and myself. I was anxious about the meeting and dreading what was to come. Even more so I was fearful I would not be able to keep my emotions in check.
I walked in and sat down anticipating what was to come. Gary must have known about my concerns and fears.... he pulled out a box of tissues and set them in the middle of the table. My fears were instantly calmed as he and I had a good chuckle. No matter what was to come with the coming changes, I knew at least that Gary thought I was worth keeping.
Thank you Gary for believing in me. Thank you for your understanding and support. More than anything, thank you for being such a wonderful boss, coworker and friend. Brett and I have a deep love and respect for you. Thank you for the tissues!!!! Thank you for everything!
Love you!
Sandy
Dear Gary and Raynee,
ReplyDeleteThank you for being such great friends to me and my family. I have great memories of the dinner group coming to our home since I was a toddler. Even though I wasn't a part of the dinners, I was always excited when it was at our house because of all the extra love and laughter that was felt when you came. Thank you for always taking interest in me and my siblings as if we were your own nieces and nephews (or own children for that matter). You are great examples of people who truly care for and take interest in others. Thanks for all the kindness, love, and generosity you have shown me. We are praying for you and hope you can feel peace through this trial.
Love,
Kristen Favero and family
I have debated on leaving a memory or not. Since I keep thinking about it, I think I will.
ReplyDeleteI did not know Gary as close as many others, but I did have the privilege of working with him in a church calling. I remember him as a kind, gentle, welcoming, and funny man. There was alway laughter in the mtgs. However, one activity stands out more than others.
That was working on the Priesthood Commemoration. This was a huge to-do. Many hours of preparation went into this activity. I remember clearly how seriously Gary took this activity. This was a joint YM/YW activity, but he was very concerned that the boys understood the importance and relevance of the Priesthood.
The last time I saw Gary was at the Preschool Nativity program, where he opened the door and welcomed me into his home.
He watched over the nativity program, with much love and interest. But the thing that stood out the most was of his love for his wife. He was supporting her, and was so proud of what she was teaching the children. He wanted to be a part of what is so important to her.
My son spends 9 hours a week at your home, and we are very thankful and blessed to have the opportunity.
I know that our families are the greatest source of happiness. Our Heavenly Father knows this and has given us the gift of living with them forever.
The gospel of Jesus Christ brings great comfort to our lives, especially it time like these.
Thank you for sharing your family with mine!
Love,
Sarah Dunham