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Steve Harvester's avatar

The celebration of her life, created by Emily, was amazing. I loved it that the wonderful minister thought closing with a circle around the sanctuary would be too difficult for us and we did it anyway, singing “Let there be peace on earth.” Thank you for sharing her ashes with those nearest to her. We’ll hold them safe in Massachusetts until you arrive by motorcycle in the fall and you can join us placing her ashes in our garden.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

So very true Steve - do that which is important regardless of the likelihood you'll be successful!

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Switter’s World's avatar

Mark, it’s hard to add anything that hasn’t already been said, but know that I am thinking of you during this time. I’m here and listening.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks Switter, I’m doin” ok all things considered

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Switter’s World's avatar

“…all things considered” is doing a lot of heavy lifting, I think.

Just know I’m thinking of you, friend.

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Priscilla Merrill's avatar

I finally got a chance to watch this, even though I thought of you all constantly while I was in Banff and the beautiful mountains and waters sending love and empathy. What a lovely service and that love endures all things, hopes all things, believes in All things! The downside for me was that I never really KNEW Emily given our age difference but I feel like Now I do. I envision Paige and her having sweet DEEP conversations “up there.” Peace and Agape’

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks Priscilla - she was and is a gem for certain. I'm glad Emily and Paige have gotten a chance to catch up on quite a few years.

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Carolyn Wolf Gould's avatar

Mark, Thanks for sharing these beautiful words about Emily with the world. Sending my love, Carolyn Wolf-Gould

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Carolyn, and you're welcome. It's nice hearing from you.

Best Regards to you and Chris, Mark

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strogatz's avatar

Thank you for sharing the eulogy for Emily, and the link to her beautiful memorial service. I've shared it with others at UUSO-- as so many remember you both from your time in Oneonta.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you so much. It was a wonderful place and we certainly missed seeing all of our friends there but it’s nice to be remembered.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Such a lovely tribute, Mark. And the room was filled with love, wasn't it? Thanks for including the video. I appreciated so much hearing your voice.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks Sharon - Yes indeed it was filled with love which overflowed downstairs for the reception which followed. I think Emily would have been or is pleased with the tribute.

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Jeanne Malmgren's avatar

So sweet, Mark. So loving. Thank you for sharing Emily with us. I feel wistful, knowing that I missed a chance to know an extraordinary human. I'm so glad you two found each on this earthly plane. And I'm glad you have your words to honor her with.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks so much Jeanne and - "I'm so glad you two found each on this earthly plane. And I'm glad you have your words to honor her with. " Two very important blessings to be mindful of.

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