Aunt Helene

Ben is at the funeral for his great aunt Helene today. The service is in Minnesota, so the boys and I were not able to attend. I wish I could; I loved Helene.

I haven't seen her much in the last few years because of deteriorating health, but during the first years of our marriage seeing Helene was, for me, one of the highlights of visiting my new in-laws. Helene was spunky, funny, delightful company. She had suffered tremendous loss in her lifetime but maintained a sense of faith and optimism. I remember sitting with her at a wedding reception several years ago after Minnesota elected Jesse Ventura as governor. Petite, unassuming, 70+ Helene was so excited about the new governor she could not contain herself. It was awesome.

I have no doubt Helene is with God and released from every sadness and pain of this life. Praise God for that. I will miss her.