For this post, I would like to write about my Uncle Gunnar, who passed away this past July. Gunnar came into our family awhile back - maybe 17 years or so. I remember when we first heard about Gunnar, he was investigating our church, and the missionaries had told us about this amazing, golden investigator. I think from the start, we knew how special Gunnar was. He asked sooooo many questions about the church, and our beliefs and what is taught, and the missionaries loved it. If I'm remembering correctly (which isn't saying much) Gunnar was fully active in his church, and I think may have even been a preacher. When the missionaries stopped by his house, the kind hearted man let them in, after asking if they were Eagle Scouts of course :) (He was active in the Scouting program for most of his life and this was very important to him - Sean only obtained the rank of Life Scout, something which Gunnar good-naturedly would tease him about).
In the end, the things Gunnar heard made sense and the spirit confirmed the truthfulness of the Gospel; he gained a testimony and was baptized. Then he met my lovely Aunt Kathryn, and the rest was history. From the start even until today, our lives have been happier and more full because Gunnar has been a part of it.
Sadly though, back in April, my Uncle Gunnar was diagnosed with leukemia. He took it like a champ, went through chemo, making many trips to Baltimore. Throughout all of this, he lifted the spirits of those around him. While we were in Maryland, we were able to bring Asher to the hospital to visit him, and see him occasionally throughout the time he had left here on earth. (Unfortunately, summer colds were rampant, and we didn't get to see him as much as we'd have liked).
We weren't there for the last few weeks of his life, because our life took us to Mexico, but we heard about the amazing last couple of weeks. He was surrounded by love and good memories as people came from all areas of his life to visit him. He was able to have one last dance with his wife, Kathryn, during a special evening just for him. He was able to share his joy for this life and the people that were in his. His passing was peaceful and we were grateful for this. We will miss him very much, but know he is in a happier place, bringing joy and the gospel to those around him once again :)
Asher and I were able to fly out for the funeral, and were so happy to see our chapel full of so many people whose lives were influenced by Gunnar and his goodness. While it was a sad day, the funeral was a happy celebration of his life and all that he brought to this world. Knowing that we will see him again helps to ease that loss that we will feel in our own lives.
Here are some pictures of our time in Maryland, and setting up for Gunnar's funeral.
Asher with his new suitcase in the airport on our way to Maryland :)
One of the things that I think people will remember about Gunnar, is his many, many, many ties. He had one for every occasion, and I don't just mean holidays. Breast cancer awareness week - he had a tie for that. National pretzel day - he had a tie for that. Did the Redskins win last night - he had a tie for when they won and a different one for when they lost :) In the foyer at church it was decided that we needed to display some of those ties, and why not on a Christmas tree :)
Asher got to hang out with his good friend while we set up - Silly kids :)
All done! At the base of the tree, we borrowed a well known skirt made of ties to complete the look (added after the photo was taken - sorry). My best friend made and wore it in high school. She kindly let us borrow it for this occasion. Thank you, Sara!
We also decorated the trees already in the foyer, with the help of the Sister missionaries.
When it was time for the funeral, we had all the kids ready to go. It was requested, in order to celebrate Gunnar's Swedish heritage, that people wear yellow and blue if they could. A lady in our church whipped up the dress that Andelyne is wearing - so cute!
After the funeral, there was a meal prepared for the family and some close friends. Apparently, it must have been a long day, and this little boy crashed during the meal on my lap. We let him sleep, while we enjoyed the company around us :)
It was a very nice funeral, and we are grateful to have been able to celebrate the amazing life that Gunnar led on this earth.
Gunnar, we feel so blessed to have had you be a part of our lives. You were always a bright light that we could depend on. You were strong, stable, and we knew you would always there for us. We could count on you in all ways, and that in itself is wonderful and comforting. Sean's been behaving himself pretty well, so no need for you to scare him straight yet - but keep an eye on him ;) Thank you for your presence and love in our lives. I hope when our time comes, you will be one of those who will greet us when we arrive in heaven. We love you Gunnar, and miss you so much!
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