resting peacefully together

The main reason for the trip to South Bend was not to see Notre Dame play Stanford, and it wasn't to visit Cory Lake, and it certainly wasn't to take a trip to the ER in Granger Indiana... it was to fullfill Kurt's Grandfathers wishes of returning to his "home" in South Bend, IN to be laid to rest by the side of his wife Alice who had died 15 years prior to Grandpas passing earlier this year. Kurt's grandfather was nearly 103 years young when we went to be with Jesus and Kurt's Grandmother. He led a long prosperous life as a tool and die maker - working for Studebaker and even Mattel! His wife was a home maker and care taker. Together they had two girls - Arlene and Helen who each had two children. Kurt's grandpa came to America from Germany - and arrived on US soil October 8th 1926 (i am not exactly sure of the year - but know the day very well).

Here is a photo of William and Alice Finkenbrink on their wedding day.

And here they are together again after all these years... together eternally. I sure hope they are having a great time re-connecting and making up for lost time.

There was a lovely service right here in the spot where they were laid to rest. The pastor was wonderful and the words she said were touching and comforting.


Liam was very busy during the service. Luckily we had some extra arms - Auntie Sherri! Liam kept her busy playing with her keys - and checking out all of the tractors that were in the area.

I thought this was a sweet moment, just after the service wrapped up. Helen and Arlene... the two daughters of William and Alice as they shared a hug and probably some memories of their childhood together with their mom and dad.

I haven't been to a lot of memorial services or funerals - but haven't seen this being done before. They brought out some dirt and asked if anyone would like to take a shovel and put some in the hole. Here is Elaine, Diane and Scott.

The grandsons...

We went back to visit a few days after the memorial service. I love this photo of Arlene. She has the perfect expression on her face. Proud and Strong.

This tree will keep the resting spot company. It was the prettiest tree in the park. And was one of the only ones that was starting to change colors - as if to say "I'm ready for you... welcome home"... I will stay here and stand strong to protect you.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you asthe world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.