Cathie Beecroft & Erika Garner

 

Dear Frenchie,

Today was the memorial for Cathie Beecroft, and on Tuesday I will attend the funeral of Erika Garner.

Cathie had been dealing with health problems for the past year and a half. Last month, she suffered a brain aneurysm. The doctors told Charlie and the kids that recovery would be extremely difficult and that, even if she survived, she would likely be unable to speak or have any real quality of life. She would need around-the-clock care.

Charlie and the kids were forced to make an unimaginably difficult decision, and they chose to let Cathie go peacefully—to move on to Heaven and begin her new life.

Curtis said he didn’t want to have a traditional funeral where everyone stood up and said only nice things about his mom when everyone knew Cathie was a tough cookie who could sometimes be a little difficult. I laughed because you and I both know exactly what he meant. But honestly, that was part of what we all loved about her.

So instead of a funeral, it felt more like a huge Sixth Ward reunion, which was probably exactly how Cathie would have wanted it. I was so happy to see how many people came.

It felt strange to be back in the cultural hall where you and I spent so many years. That room holds countless memories with some of the best people I have ever known. Being there brought so much of our life together rushing back to me.

Charlie told me how much he loved you. He said he is now going through what I went through two years ago. I tried to comfort him, but I know there are no words that can bring peace when the person you love is suddenly gone. Sometimes, all we can do is sit beside someone and let them know they are not alone.

Tomorrow, I will attend Erika Garner’s funeral. She lived in Las Sendas and was in Utah for a family reunion when she suddenly collapsed while playing pickleball. They believe she may have had a heart attack, but the family is still waiting for the coroner’s report.

Four of our dear friends have left us this week. They are gone from this life, but they will never be forgotten.

I love you, Babe, and I miss you so much.