Continued

While I didn't know Dick Merlau well, his family did a great job of keeping his memory alive as they spoke at his service today. Pat Trout, his sister, spoke of trying to keep him in line as big sister! Charles, his brother, spoke of the faith they both shared in Jesus Christ. The daughters and grandchildren had special memories of all the stories he told them...again...and again...and again. They remembered that he loved to play his guitar and sign them to sleep with his lullabys...like "The Gambler and Mama, Don't Let Your Children Grow Up to be Cowboys." He must have been quite a philosopher. Many family members and friends remembered wise sayings of his. He will surely be missed but I suspect he, like Bert, has already found his place in our Fathers house.

A Sad Week at NPUMC...a glorious day in heaven!

It was a sad week for those of us who will miss our friends Bert Armstrong and Dick Merlau. Tuesday I attended a wonderful tribute to Bert Armstrong. Pastor JT and Steve Harding conducted the service and several family members participated sharing memories of love and caring. The beautiful singing by Danielle and Samantha added to the remembrance of Papaw Bert. Mary also bravely spoke showing the strength of faith and also gratitude of the entire family for the ongoing support shown during Bert's illness. Tears came to my eyes as I viewed the football next to Bert in the casket. It had a statement from grandson Jason saying, "Papaw, You play catch with Jesus until I get there." I am quite sure Jesus is ready for Bert...to play catch...and as JT said ..."Maybe to help with the cleanup in heaven..."
Bert will be terribly missed in New Pal and in our church. We all need to recognize that while Bert is gone to his reward, the rest of the family needs our continued love and support.

A Quick General Update

First, I want to share a quick note about our Fellowship dinner held last evening in Fellowship Hall. We had about 50 folks present even though it was rainy and cold. The "cookout" we had included hambergers,with all the trimmings, baked beans, slaw, several types of salads, and potato salads too. There were more desserts than I could taste...well I tried! Everything was fantastic as usual and everyone had a great time. Many thanks to Lee and Denny and Roger McCarty who managed the grill...in the rain! Great job guys!!! Bert Armstrong is back at St. Francis for rehab now and he is happier and closer to going home. Sheila Ellis is in ICU there also and she and Don need our ongoing prayers. Ginny Brosier is recuperting. well and is nearly back to normal. Pam Komendo got a good report from her doctor this week...no big C found in biopsies. Georgia Cassell is due to return home Wednesday from Cyprus Run in Morristown. She is stronger and happier too. Jim and Bonnie have moved to the condos right behind the play area at church. Jim says he plans to be walking over to NPUMC. Doris VanDine asks for prayers as she is having some health issues presently. Katsue Gladback is nearly back to normal and is busy as ever. Oh, there is plenty more...but it's midnight and I can hear my mattress calling! In His Service, Roger