A Tribute to Uncle Bob and Aunt Ruth...

Sad news in Roccoland today. We just learned that around 1ish Colorado-time, MeLissa Aunt Ruth and Uncle Bob died in a fatal car accident. Rather than lament their passing, we're going to celebrate their lives with happy memories and stories. And, to do so, MeLissa's popping back into first person because it's just weird to write in the third about your beloved aunt and uncle.

These two people whom I spent more time with as a child than most children have a chance to spend time with are dear to me despite their flaws. I won't say that sometimes I was very frustrated over those flaws, but despite them, they loved me and they were people I could count on if ever in need. They were so good to my family, too. I don't remember ever feeling anything but acceptance and love from them and I appreciate that so much.

When I was young, I remember they lived in a house on a street which I can not remember (Parmenter maybe?), but I remember the house and would recognize it should I ever drive by. My aunt and uncle let me come stay and play with them. My aunt taught me how to macrame. I believe it was she who helped me finish my first plant hanger... I also remember baking cookies and even finding a snake (of which I was deathly afraid - just a garter snake, but still!) with her.

I remember that when my family fell on difficult times (when weren't times difficult actually?), they graciously accepted us as guests for Thanksgiving. I remember my aunt's pumpkin roll...a dream come true of a dessert that we could never get enogh of. And then, there was that mocha cinnamon cake. Can you say to die for? We never left hungry when we came to visit my aunt and uncle...

When I left for college, I remember the sweetness of my Aunt Ruth. She corresponded with me for a while to help me feel closer to home. I still have some of the letter, I think...

As I got older, I rarely saw them...only when I came home to visit if they happened to stop in at my father's appliance store to visit. We also were able to see them for a short time at our home-town reception for our wedding in Lamar the day after the wedding. That was the last time I saw them.

My heart is heavy knowing I'll have to wait until I go to heaven to see them again. The circumstances of their passing are not clear so I also feel sad that we have no guarantee that they died quickly and without suffering. All that we know is my uncle was thrown from the truck and it rolled. In their memory, I ask you to be cautious when driving, slow down and wear your seatbelt at all times. Do it not only for yourself, but your family.

Enjoy the fluffy clouds and sunshine and labor no more dear Aunt Ruth and Uncle Bob - you will be missed by many. Thanks for your kindness and the fond memories you leave behind.