These images offer just small glimpses of Sue's nearly 63 years of life. They are drawn from my collection compiled over the years I knew her as sister and friend. You aren't seeing Sue as co-worker in a professional office, traveling companion on the byways of France, crew mate aboard "Resolute" or in other aspects of her vibrant life. You aren't seeing her as a daughter sharing a "Barefoot Cruise" in the Caribbean, or , except for a couple of images, as a loving aunt and great aunt.

Each of us has our own stories to tell and memories to savor of Sue. As I selected images to share, I was also reminded that many of us also have stories and memories of Lois, who died April 4, 2003 at the age of 54, and Dad, whom we lost December 18, 1995 at the age of 80. Death is a natural part of living but that doesn't make it any easier when someone you love is gone and you long for just a little more time, another hug, and a chance to speak more words of love.

Sue did not speak willingly of her cancer, but diverted the conversation to the needs of others. That was undeniably Sue, as made so beautifully clear in these words to me on the back of her high school graduation picture: "To Jan, You have a great deal of potential in many areas of life. I'm sure you'll be a success but will find your own happiness by remembering to always try to make others happy. Love, Sue." The standard of excellence she set in kindness to others is high. This world would be a much better place if we all subscribed to Sue's way of walking on life's journey.

A friend shared this quote from Henry Van Dyke who compared death to a sailing ship on the horizon. As it disappears from view for some it is just coming into view for others: "Her diminished size is in me, not in her, and just at the moment when someone at my side says 'There! She's gone!' there are other voices ready to take up the glad shout, 'There! She comes!' And that is dying." Sue has come into view and into the welcoming arms of Dad, Lois, and others who have gone before, but most importantly, into the welcoming embrace of our Creator. Sue made many people happy. No wonder Heaven was glad to take her in and no wonder all of us miss her so.

Blessings, Jan

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