Celebration of Life!

This week we celebrated the life of a wonderful man, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Death is certainly not a part of life that we look forward to, but it is inevitable that it will come. Papa Norm's youngest sister, Jenny, choose a wonderful theme for the celebration which was carried throughout the event. It comes from a wall hanging that several of our family members have in their homes and goes as follows:

Our family is a circle of strength and love

With every birth and every union the circle grows.

Every joy shared adds more love.

Every crisis faced together makes the circle stronger.

The memorial service was a beautiful tribute to Grandpa Ove, with music by his grandson Brandon, and comments from family members. The message given by Ove's current pastor couldn't have been more perfect and appropriate. Most all of the family members contributed in some way to the service or to the buffet reception afterwards. Many of his favorite foods were served and family traditions such as the Christmas rice pudding were part of the celebration. Family came from Idaho, Illinois, Oregon, and Southern California to be together.

Below one of Papa's cousins, Melody, spends some time with Christopher. She had him laughing so hard.

Christopher and his Daddy.

The casket was made by Papa Norm's youngest brother Larry. What an incredibly beautiful work of art.

Nephew, Jesse, sang "Amazing Grace" acappella at the graveside.

Mike and Claire sharing a quiet moment.


Claire and Chloe with their flowers that all of the great-grandchildren placed on the casket.

Cousin Alexa helps the girls head the right direction.



Our final good-bye.

I'm not sure how much the three year old girls understood of what was going on, but I am sure of one thing. They couldn't help but take in the love, strength, and warmth of a family that were all sharing this grief together. The time spent with cousins and aunts and uncles was priceless. I am so thankful for Easter and our risen Savior and the hope it gives for eternal life. I trust that you had a blessed Easter with those you love.