Oma 1930-2010

She was a beautiful German woman who spoke English and Spanish and relished Chinese food. She loved the color green, poetry and naps in the afternoon. She collected buttons and painted beautiful flowers with watercolors. She treated me like a daughter, and welcomed each new grandchild with the love and enthusiasm that marks a person who values life. Her faith was an inspiration to many, and the reason her children walk with God. Always ready for a good political discussion, Oma would engage whoever would be willing in a lively discussion about the issues of the day. She taught Emma how to cut a carrot, how to set a table, and how to sew a sock. She taught me how to make cole slaw, how to be more thrifty, how to be hospitable. She taught Ken how to work, and he is now teaching our boys how to work. Her hands were never idle, and our home is blessed with the beautiful rugs she made out of what others deemed rags. All were welcome at her table and Saturday hamburgers were a delicious tradition. She was the center of every family gathering, and always made sure we started with prayer.

Life will not be the same without her. From the time my kids have been able to walk, they have all marched down to Oma's to find something interesting to do. And they were never disappointed. She's been a friend and a mother, and I will miss the way she doted on me. One look in my eyes and she could tell if I was feeling under the weather, or sad, or just tired. I will miss our conversations about God and faith. I will miss her smile and her soft, warm cheek. I wish I could have kissed it one last time.

I love you, Oma. Enjoy your well-deserved rest with your heavenly Father.