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Ruth Wagner Bradshaw's avatar

Emily was a kind, wise, curious person. When she had something to say it was always worth listening to. I think what I will remember most is her genuine love for the pollinators in her garden - she was just so in tune with the beauty of this world. My deepest condolences to you, Mark, and to all Emily's family and friends.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks so much Ruth, nice hearing from you.

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Heather Brebaugh's avatar

We often read about 'blessings' as if they are something to be taken from written words. But it sounds as if Emily was a living blessing. I'm sorry for your loss, Mark. Thank you for sharing her through your thoughts.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Well said Heather, thank you.

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Joelle Lewis's avatar

Oh Mark, I'm so so sorry for your loss. I have been remembering you and Emily in my prayers, hoping that your absence did not mean she had won her final battle. Emily did not lose her life to cancer: she fought like hell to the end, reveling in all the life she had, and finishing to a glorious entry to eternity. You have a lifetime of beautiful memories, but you also face a lifetime of knowing she won't be in anymore. Those are the grief ambushes that knock you sideways, even as you know she is whole and happy. It's a blink for her until you meet again; it's a couple more blinks for those of us here on earth. You don't owe anyone a time table or an explanation or even a welcome into your grief ❤️ thank you so much for sharing this small part of her life, and for letting us see how amazing she was.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you very much Joelle for your heart-felt kind words. I will keep them in mind

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Jeanne Malmgren's avatar

Oh, Mark ... this is beautiful and heartbreaking, all at once. What a special person she was/is/always will be. Blessings to you and your family as you navigate new waters. And thank you for sharing this tribute to your beloved. May the memory of her live on and on and ON.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Jeanne,

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Kim Van Bruggen's avatar

What a beautifully written post. Thank you for sharing your wife’s life and loves with us. I would often think of you Mark. Hoping always the news would be better. I think we could all use the philosophy your wife modelled for you and your family. I know i could use more of that thinking in my life. I’m so sorry for your loss.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you Kim

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Alyssa Sugar's avatar

I really miss getting her daily emails .

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

I can't tell you how much I miss

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Jill Weckesser's avatar

Reading this beautiful tribute, I wept (once again). Sorry Emily, as you asked us not to weep.

This bright soul has gone on to ‘the next great adventure’ while those left behind grieve the loss. But how lucky we are to have known her!

Mark, my deepest condolences to you and your family!

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you very much Jill. I'm glad you got to know her.

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Deborah Farrell's avatar

I only met Emily once maybe twice through your sister, Gay. Gay and I have been best friends for over 40 years. She informed me of Emily's death and also the wonderful writer that I can tell you are. You have my deepest sympathy for your loss Mark, I know what a special couple you were. A very God-loving couple. Peace be with you and your family during this time and moving forward. Sincerely in Christ, Debbie Farrell

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Hi Debbie,

I am so glad to see you here, you've obviously been such a great friend to my favorite older sister. Thank you so much for subscribing and especially for the kind words about Emily and me. Now that I think of it, Gay mentioned you in a positive light in the last week or so, but I can't remember specifics, she might. My head has been spinning. She certainly highly values your friendship as well.

May the love of Christ be with you also, Mark

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J.P. Wing's avatar

My husband and I only met Emily once, when she was the officiant of our legal marriage back in 2011. She was absolutely wonderful, and when we met her I knew that she was a special soul. I was so happy to maintain contact with her via Facebook since that one meeting.

Our deepest condolences to you and your family.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you so much for sharing and your condolences.

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Brian W Wales's avatar

Ever since my wife Anne and I first met Mark and Emily at the Delavan UCC spaghetti dinner, we have enjoyed getting together to laugh and talk about things. We will miss her kind and thoughtful sense of humor. It was always interesting and enjoyable to hear about Mark and Emily's lives before moving to Delavan. Anne learned a lot about Wisconsin's native plants from Emily and will apply that knowledge to our gardens again this spring and summer. Gratefully and lovingly, Brian Wales

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

AND, I look forward to seeing your garden and its stewards this spring and or summer.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thanks so much Brian for the kind words and memories that I also share (Spaghetti dinner memory - like it was yesterday)

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Dolores J  Rothwell's avatar

I always enjoyed Emily's sweet smile in person and then online when you moved away. There was something in her manner that always made you feel loved. Maybe it was the sparkle in her eyes or the pure joy of life she felt but you knew she cared. I know how difficult it must be for you and your family at this time and I have no words that I feel will comfort you. Warmest wishes.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Hi Dolores,

It’s so nice to see your kind words - and yes, she had a beautiful smile and emanated kindness. Your words may not fix anything, but they do indeed lighten my load just a little bit. Thank you and I hope you’re well

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Louise Haynes's avatar

This is such a loving tribute to Emily, Mark. Sending you and all of your family healing thoughts.

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just mud by Ron's avatar

Mark, thanks for sharing your intimate words. Sorry for the loss of your wife and dear friend.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Ron

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Diana van Eyk's avatar

What a beautiful tribute to your wife, Emily, Mark. She sounds like such an amazing woman. My deepest condolences to you and all who will miss her.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Diana,

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Scott Roth's avatar

A beautiful testament to a beautiful life. Wishing you and everyone who loves Emily peace. May her memory be a blessing.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Scott, for reaching out.

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Richard Prichard's avatar

Beautiful tribute Mark. I’m so sorry for your loss.

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Mark VanLaeys's avatar

Thank you, Richard,

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