On Monday, June 6th at 11:20pm we lost the matriarch of our family at the age of 92. My grandmother, Elizabeth, passed away surrounded by her family. We celebrated her life on Friday, June 10th. The Croatian Choir sang like angels, as Father John told her story of strength, courage and love. It was a beautiful tribute to a woman we adored with all our hearts. The church was full of close family, distant relatives, friends, and coworkers...all who were touched by her love and gentle spirit. Below are photos taken in the last three years, and part of her eulogy I was honored to write and deliver at her service. God Bless You Grandma...we'll miss you each and every day. Love you puno, puno!
90th Surprise Birthday Party
Long time friend Maime and her daughter Kathy
Sister-in-law Marge and her daughter Sue
Lynne Jurlin (nephew's wife)
Cousins Josie and Nancy Bosnich
Selma and Maime...longtime friends of over 80 years
Lindsay Jane and Nona
Kendal's 3rd Birthday with some of her great grandaughters
Lindsay and Nona at her 4th Birthday Party
Christmas Eve 2010
Dear Grandma,
Thank you- For showing me what strength is ~ by working hard all of your life, if it needed to get done, you did it.
Thank you – For showing me the importance of dignity; you held your head high, squared your shoulders and gracefully endured all that came your way.
Thank you for showing me the importance of faith and spirituality; with your dedication to the church and your continued faith in our Lord.
Thank you for showing the value of family and the meaning of dedication; with the care you administered to your ailing and aging parents, your husband, as well as your sisters.
Thank you for showing me what it is like to have a sense of pride; caring about what others think. while maintaining your own strong beliefs and values.
Thank you for showing me the meaning of true beauty; not only did you always look impeccable; your inner beauty and grace shined through.
Thank you for showing me how to cook; and to never underestimate the power of a family gathered around a table, sharing a good meal. Always keeping in mind if you are expecting 10, cook for 30.
Thank for showing me your unwavering love with:
heartfelt cards, phone calls, thoughtful gifts, and being there whenever I needed.
Thank you for showing me there’s nothing better than an old friend; demonstrated by your life-long relationships with so many...especially Cuma Selma and Cuma Maime.
I’ll remember:
Your laugh
Your gift of the gab
Your story sharing
Your mostaciolli, peas, sauerkraut and pineapple upside down cake
Your shopping tips – if there was a bargain you knew where to go
Your tidiness – don’t know anyone else who cleaned their baseboards weekly but you
And more than anything grandma…I’ll miss your presence, today and always.
xo Michelle
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