Schlemazel’s memorial service was today. His niece Laura sent me this write up to share with you all:
Schlemazel was memorialized today in the beautiful French Park in Plymouth MN. The weather was ideal, sunny and in the 60’s. Michael and Edith represented the BJ community. In typical fashion there were no green balloons to be had last minute at Cub Foods due to a shortage of time and helium. The only things left were princesses, welcome to boy or girl and one purple monkey with a banana. The only thing I could think of was the universe and Mark conspired to make a monkey of me as our family last name is Gibbons, one last joke. I had intended to put a nice little booklet together of all of the wonderful comments you all made but I’m afraid family obligations made that impossible. I did have the chance to tell his wife about how I read all 200+ comments you all made 2 nights before he died and how he both laughed and cried as I read. He fell asleep that night knowing he was surrounded by love which is all anyone can ask for. Life is short and can end abruptly and unexpectedly so you don’t get the chance to say goodbye. I am grateful I got to share this community with him and got to say farewell in the best way possible given the circumstances. I am grateful that you all gave us that gift. If you would like to set a meet up sometime in the future. I promise to find a green balloon! — Laura Too
Open thread!