My Aunt Pat visited me - way up here in cold Minnesota. Yesterday, I was rummaging through my closet when, by chance, I picked up a sweater that I hadn't used - or even seen - in years. All of a sudden, I remembered from where this sweater came. It had been knitted over many hours, with much love, by Aunt Pat - who had just passed away two days earlier. I put the sweater on and took a walk, with that beautiful sweater protecting me from the cold Minnesota winter.
Aunt Pat was all about warmth and love. And she expressed herself so well through her artistic talents. As a child I always looked forward to visiting my cousins, the Hoplers. I remember well Aunt Pat's great, infectious laugh (and her great tuna fish sandwiches!). Her home was my second home.
Although my family has lived far from Aunt Pat for many years, we all have strong feelings for her. My daughter Emily told me, "I remember her as a funny, warm, and endearing woman. My favorite painting ever is the one she did of me, Daniel and David playing on the beach :)"
Daniel agreed that this picture "uncannily" captured the personalities of he and his siblings.
David said, "Pat was always a joy to be around and I don't think I ever saw her without a smile. She spoke her mind and was aggressively friendly/loving. I will miss her!"
My wife Nancy added, "I loved Aunt Pat for her zest for life, perpetual optimism and candor. She was a warm and open person to everyone."
While Aunt Pat was an amazingly lovable and talented person, she also was very strong. She endured much pain - in her heart and body - yet remained, as my family clearly saw a warm, open, loving person. I admired her strength of character.
I loved her much for my entire life and will greatly miss her. The good news is that I can I look forward to my future walks in the warmth of her sweater.
My heartfelt condolences to my cousins Donna and Julie and their families.
With much love,
Bill Jarrett
