It’s Monday. The weather over the weekend was an absolute mess with a mix of rain, sleet, freezing rain, 50 mph winds, and snow. It was one of those Chicago winter days where they say, if you don’t have to be on the road then don’t be on the road. We had to be on the road.
On Saturday I went into the city with my girlfriend and a couple friends to attend a memorial for a good friend’s wife who recently passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. It was held in the amazing Crystal Gardens room on Navy Pier. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a beautiful indoor, one‐acre, botanical garden with lush vegetation that’s just an absolutely beautiful place. Throughout the many flowers, trees, and plants were collections of photos grouped by specific periods in her life. On each of the many tables were cards that displayed quotes from family & friends who remembered special times with her and how she touched so many of their lives. We heard stories from her husband, some quite funny, and several of her close friends. There were also two live performances, one of which was an original song specifically written by a young and extremely talented family member that lifted spirits and brightened the mood for everyone. The proceedings concluded with her husband leading everyone in a touching toast in her memory.
What’s most interesting about this event is the fact that it was entirely planed by her. Everything from the location down to the smallest of details was specified by her. She didn’t have any interest in a traditional memorial service or wake. Instead she wanted her family and friends to gather for a party where everyone could tell stories, laugh, and remember the good times spent together. She was a unique person in every way and will be remembered fondly for her uplifting spirit and kind soul.
Difficult Weekend
On Saturday I went into the city with my girlfriend and a couple friends to attend a memorial for a good friend’s wife who recently passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. It was held in the amazing Crystal Gardens room on Navy Pier. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a beautiful indoor, one‐acre, botanical garden with lush vegetation that’s just an absolutely beautiful place. Throughout the many flowers, trees, and plants were collections of photos grouped by specific periods in her life. On each of the many tables were cards that displayed quotes from family & friends who remembered special times with her and how she touched so many of their lives. We heard stories from her husband, some quite funny, and several of her close friends. There were also two live performances, one of which was an original song specifically written by a young and extremely talented family member that lifted spirits and brightened the mood for everyone. The proceedings concluded with her husband leading everyone in a touching toast in her memory.
What’s most interesting about this event is the fact that it was entirely planed by her. Everything from the location down to the smallest of details was specified by her. She didn’t have any interest in a traditional memorial service or wake. Instead she wanted her family and friends to gather for a party where everyone could tell stories, laugh, and remember the good times spent together. She was a unique person in every way and will be remembered fondly for her uplifting spirit and kind soul.
-keep