MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2008 04:20 PM, PDT
Marilyn called all the siblings to let them know the nursing staff at Ridgemont Terrace didn't think dad was going to last through the night. Although this last couple of weeks had bee exhausting, Wayne and I knew it was the only thing to do to drive back to Port Orchard and be with the family and mom and dad. I actually was a sweet passing. Bruce, who lives in Grantsville, Ut was on his way, and the youngest sister, Kathy, who lives in Michigan was just leaving to join us. The entire rest of the 8 siblings and some spouses and grandchildren were there throughout the peaceful evening. It was such a sweet mixture of compassion and sadness...but mostly an outpouring of love for this great man. We counseled with the staff to know the best way to involve Leona, Elmer's wife of nearly 60 years who has Alzheimer's. Should she be involved? would it create more confusion and anger for her? The counsel was to involve her in everything. She may have to ask repeatedly about what was happening but that she would get 'closure' this way more that any other. I'm glad we did it that way, too. The evening was filled with priesthood blessing from the men/sons upon dad's head and from the men to the women present...individually. The spirit was sweet and calm and again, filled with love for this man and for each other.