By now most of you know that Len, my husband of 56 years, died on November 28^th from a heart attack. We were in the process of downsizing, selling our home and looking for another to buy. I’m still in that process, but it has been modified. Instead of searching for accommodations for two I’m now searching for a place for four. My daughter and her two sons will be living with me.

It has taken three months to deal with legal matters and finalize survivor benefits. I never gave much thought to having to do this. My idea was to go first. One thing that has been meaningful to me during this time are notes that I received in which the senders tell of a memory of their relationship with Len. These give a fuller picture of him. So I thought I would share how we have known the senders and what their thoughts were.

From Kelley Labus- wife, mother & school psychologist

“What a giant of a man Len was and what an important influence on us early in our marriage. I have such special memories of going to your house for dinner and doing the Experiencing God bible study. When Curt (her husband) first worked at juvenile hall, Len discipled him because Curtis worked weekends and couldn’t get to church. He (Len) was generous, hearty and loving.”

From Betty Shelton – member of Life Group, older people who meet after the Sunday service to discuss the sermon

“Listening to Len speak in Life Group was always a blessing. Appreciated him so much.”

From Mike Neal – dentist, neighbor

He was a wonderful man. We loved his smile and gentle demeanor. I had a tremendous respect for him. I feel like I lost a wise and wonderful influence in my life.”

From Michele Neal – wife, homemaker and supplier of projects for Len

“Len will always have a special place in my heart. He was always so kind to my father. I loved his presence in this neighborhood. He was a very sweet man. We will profoundly miss him.”

Beth Bermudes- widow, before her husband’s death, the four of us traveled together

“Last night I sealed up my card to you and this morning I awoke with a flood of memories of the four of us, Ashland, the Oregon coast, Seattle and much, much more. Christmas 2012, Len invited Richard to make Springerle with him. Richard was so excited that he could hardly contain himself. He couldn’t believe that you just had a small mixer and he planned to take the Kitchen Aide with him the next time that he made Springerle with Len. By Christmas 2013, we were on a different page…”

Richard was diagnosed and died of cancer. Len died before he could make Springerle for this last Christmas. But his 13 year old grandson, Tallen, wanted to carry on the tradition and so he made it with his aunt Tess and with his father, Tad, supervising.