January 01, 2011
I know you both love the calendars Carlene made this year. They are the best yet! We love you both.
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
January 01, 2011
1-1-11 Happy New Year
Eternal love~~~~~~~
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
December 31, 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR DAD AND MOM,
2010 is now over, 2011 is all about family and making beautiful memories. We all love you dad and mom.
Lewis Children
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
December 26, 2010
Dad & Mom,
Christmas was wonderful, Vicky, David, Lori and I were all together. Roxanne and Carlene are in our hearts. We are family and we are united. We are all stronger than ever before. 2010 was life changing for all of us for the better. We promise to continue to honor you and to love each other as you so wanted for your children. We are the strongest we have ever been. This is all thanks to you for your guidance. David is happy and healthy and as handsome as you daddy, Vicky is doing amazing, she looks great. Lori is doing wonderful with her little girls. Amanda is so beautiful. Gabby is our angel. We have all reached out to Roxanne, we love her so. Carlene is my heart, you were right all along; we are the "twins". She is an amazing woman; her kids idolize her like we do you. She looks amazing! Cannot believe she is in her 50's you would never know it. Can't wait to be with her again in February for our "special" vacation we have planned. Your children love you so very much. Thank you for opening our eyes and realizing that "family" is what it is all about.
Eternal love,
Your Children,
Roxanne, Carlene, Vicky, Debbie, David & Lori.
~
Lewis Children,
California
December 22, 2010
Good Morning Dad & Mom,
Lori and the girls arrived safely, it is wonderful having a house full again. 2010 was good to me. (Thank you)!! Last night I baked your favorite "caution" cookies for you. Carlene made those "famous" calendars. They are beautiful! I have made some great strides this year and I owe it to your hearts. "Thank you" for raising me to have morals and a heart so full of love.
I love you and miss you both so much.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 18, 2010
6 more days to Christmas dad, I pick up our Lori & the girls today. We will ALL be together. Although Carlene and Roxanne will not be with us in person they are with us in our hearts. Eternal love to you!
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 17, 2010
One more week... Tap, Tap, Tap at the top of the stairs... are you awake? Did you even get 20 winks? Thank you for instilling the wonder of Christmas in us all. You will be with us smiling with that twinkle in your eyes each year until we are all home with you again.
~
Victoria Lewis,
Modesto, California
December 15, 2010
10 More Day to Christmas daddy!
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 14, 2010
11 More days to Christmas daddy! :)
Love You
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 13, 2010
12 More days to Christmas dad.
Love you
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
December 08, 2010
It’s been awhile Mom & Dad but you are always on my mind and in my heart. All your kids: Roxanne, Debbie, David, Lori, Vicky & myself love you and miss you so much. Our lives have not been the same since you joined our Johnny. We are the family you both wanted us to be and i know you are watching and looking over us. I love you dearly.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 07, 2010
I'm sorry, like I said so much has happened since my last entry. I also want you to know that Roxanne is doing well too. Our family is trying so hard to deal with the loss of you. We have united together and united is where we will stay.
Eternal Love
Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 06, 2010
The Holidays are once again approaching us. The memories are so intense. You made Christmas for us kids the best. We all love Christmas and will always carry on the LEWIS tradition. So much has happened since my last entry. I know you have been with me dad, you have been in my dreams. Your children are doing well, we are all united. Lori is coming home for the holidays with the girls (please continue to help guide our Manna mom) David has been through so much, he is stronger than ever. He is better than ever. He is in love and happy. Vicky is a new woman, I know you are so proud of her; we spend a lot of time together. Carlene is my twin, inside and out. We are so much alike; we got each other back no matter what. We will be going on our cruise in February to make more of our beautiful memories. Memories are what we are left with. Warm beautiful memories. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the memories of you.
Your only
Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 01, 2010
Happy Anniversary to my Hero Daddy and my Angel Mother. May you only be laughing and loving for all eternity.
Please help me mom and dad, I need your help!!!
Your only Debbie
~
Belmont, California
May 01, 2010
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. Oh how I wish you were both still here with us. I really needed you yesterday. Some of your children have gone above and beyond and it was amazing. But you are looking upon us and I know you are with me. I miss you both terribly and until your 5 children come home to rest with you please be our angels. Love always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 26, 2010
Mom & Dad,
All your children know that you two were the best parents to us kids. You taught us to love, cherish and honor. You taught us morals. Some people grow up with no morals at all.
For that, all the Lewis' are forever grateful. You raised us kids to not dwell on what others say or think and to be ourselves, live good and he happy. We all are very close and loving and we have you both to thank for that. Oh we may have a squabble here or there but nothing we don't work out.
I know you know this for you are always looking upon us kids but Debbie has all the pictures of all our generations and you have our solemn vow that this will be kept in the Lewis family and handed down to generations to come. As those were your wishes. How wonderful is that?
We miss you Mom, Dad and Johnny and we always will. No worries Dad I have your strength and nothing tears me down. I got that from you! Helping others with being thoughtful loving and considerate is what you both taught us kids. And people are thanking us all the time! We give those thanks back to you both!
With all my love, your daughter Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 16, 2010
Happy Birthday Brother Johnny, you are missed so deeply. thank you for all the memories you left behind for us. You were taken away way too early in life. You lived life to the fullest, you were crazy, fun, and had a heart of gold. May you have eternal happiness, something you so deserve. I love you Johnny, please kiss mom and dad for me, tell them I am fine and I miss them and love them so much.
Your sister,
~
Debbie,
Belmont, California
April 16, 2010
My dearest big brother Johnny, You are missed more and more all the time. God took you far too young and we miss you so much. Happy Birthday Johnny you will never be forgotten. Thank you for the time I did have with you and we did have them didn’t we? I love you & miss you dearly.
Your sister, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 09, 2010
Happy Birthday Daddy. You are always here beside me, playing your music through the nights and holding my hand every time I need you. Thank you for being a constant strength to me and for watching over all of us. For teaching us to love with all our hearts. Your love lives on through each of us forever. I love you....
~
Victoria
April 09, 2010
Oh Daddy, today is your birthday. I celebrate you each and every day. Words cannot express how much I miss you, I miss our daily talks, I miss coming up to see your beautiful blue eyes, I miss your jokes, your laughter, your wisdom, but most of all I miss your arms wrapped around me. So much has happened I wish I could share with you. You always gave me strength and encouraged me to follow my heart. You gave me your heart daddy. Your huge beautiful heart, you gave it to me. Thank you!!!!! Thank you for everything. Please continue to watch over us kids and help guide us in the right direction.
Eternal Love daddy, a very happy birthday, I know mom and Johnny will make it a special one for you. I hope you are still dancing.
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
April 09, 2010
I write this to you today dad letting you know that I never call on you "only" in a time of need. I always know you have your arms around me. No matter what. MY family knows that you are with us 24/7 nonstop. I can say my life has never been the same since we lost you and mom and Johnny. Today is your birthday and I listened to your most favorite song all the way to work. Does everyone know what your most favorite song is? Please know you have nobody to hold except our beautiful mama and Johnny. When we get to be with you at that time you can hold us forever. I love you Dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 08, 2010
Dad,
No words we write can ever say
How much we miss you every day.
As time goes by, the loneliness grows;
How we miss you, nobody knows!
We think of you in silence,
We often speak your name,
But all we have are memories
And photos in a frame.
No one knows our sorrow,
No one sees us weep,
But the love we have for you
Is in our heart to keep.
We’ve never stopped loving you
We're sure we never will;
Deep inside our heart,
You are with us still.
Heartaches in this world are many
But ours are worse than any.
Our hearts still ache as we whisper low,
“We need you and we miss you so.”
The things we feel so deeply
Are often the hardest to say,
But we just can’t keep quiet any more,
So we’ll tell you anyway.
There is a place in our heart
That no one else can fill,
We love you so, Dad,
And we always will.
Eternally in your heart your true twin daughters, Debbie & Carlene
~
Debbie & Carlene Schletter Orloff,
Belmont, California
April 03, 2010
Another year come and gone, Carlene and I just got back from a wonderful vacation together, the memories we hold in our hearts are priceless. We are so much alike in so many ways; This was our 9th year together of meeting each year for vacation. Oh the fun we have, the non-stop laughter, each year we would share with you and show you all the pictures and tell you all about it. Kauai was breath taking. It also gave us the time to reminisce of so many things. "thank you" mom and dad for giving us each other, we are more alike and should have been the true "twins" all along.
Eternal Love for ever and ever AMEN!!!
~
Daddy’s Girl,
California
March 20, 2010
What a beautiful day it is today. My mind takes me back to a day in the past. Sparkling waters of the Delta. Wind Mill Cove, to be exact. The weather was perfect, not a cloud in those Baby Blue California Sky’s! How I wish I could go back to that wondrous time in my mind.......a time when life was much simpler, yet ever so special. A time of You and Me! I miss You so much Johnny! I feel Blessed to call You my Brother. SO much of You still lives on inside me. Thank You for being ALL that You are and for always letting me tag along, no matter what! Boy, they don't teach that in school!
In Loving Memories......
~
Lori Rangel,
Bothell, Washington
March 20, 2010
You're very welcome Sandy. I’m so glad you are able to feel them guiding you thru life.....I know you are having a tough time right now, but if you listen closely, you will hear the answers. This will ALL eventually pass and you will come around! Mom and Dad taught me to always have confidence and I'd like to give some of that to you.! Thank you Mom & Dad for always loving ALL of us, no matter what, even when we go astray!
~
Lori Rangel,
Bothell, Washington
March 17, 2010
Mom, Please watch over Sandy. She needs your guidance right now! I love and miss you and Dad so very much. Wish you were still here with us. Things would be so much better for all of us!
~
Lori Rangel,
Bothell, Washington
March 17, 2010
Thank you for being here with me every day and for surrounding me with your love and concern.
~
Victoria Lewis,
Modesto, California
March 16, 2010
Missing you every day of my life. Loving you with every ounce of my life. I dream of you all the time.
UNITL~~~~~
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 31, 2010
Not a day goes by that I don't think of my brother. I still really miss him and wish I could hear his voice, his laugh again. I love you Johnny. Rest in eternal peace Johnny.
~
Carlene Lewis,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 02, 2010
In many ways I believe 2010 will bring much closure to many of us. Sometimes we all just go through the motions of our everyday life. Down deep we are devastated still by all your passing on. None of us were ready for this. We still have a difficult time accepting. Please look over us this year and help guide us. I did the calendars once again and once again it just does not feel the same as when you mom & dad were with us. I will continue to do these until I cannot. I am blessed to hold so many wonderful memories in my heart. Until our family is as one.....I love and miss you.
Your daughter Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 02, 2010
Another New Year "2010" Life continues. I miss you so very much. Times are changing, family coming together. Mom we will do it! There will be peace.
Eternal love
forever & ever
Amen
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 27, 2009
Christmas has come and gone, the memories imbedded in our hearts and mind. The calendars, the laughter, the jokes, the yummy food, the sharing and giving, the joy of being with family, the love!!! The love you gave us to give to others. You made Christmas all these things and more. Thank you for the upbringing on love and happiness. You are sorely missed and loved and cherished. Our lives go on until~~~~ Please continue to watch over all of us and keep us all safe. help to bring our family closer this year then the year before. Eternal love Mom, Dad, & our beloved Johnny
~
Daddy’s girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 24, 2009
Another Christmas without you Mom & Dad & Johnny. You know last night all the kids were over and I had them all sit around as I told them some wonderful memories I hold in my heart. It is important to me that they remember these moments in my life along with me. As much as I am sad to not have you for me to call on Christmas day I will still talk with you. I will reminisce of our good times and fond memories. I miss you all dearly and I love you. Merry Christmas Mom Dad & Johnny.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 19, 2009
I just have to share this for Mike looks just like "Our Johnny". Grandma said he looked just like Johnny when she saw him as a baby.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 14, 2009
I love you and miss you more each and every day. Holidays fast approaching, wonderful memories, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the precious memories, no one can ever take them away.
Eternal love
~
daddysgirl,
Belmont, California
November 24, 2009
You have been so heavy on my mind lately more than usual. I miss you so much and am having a very difficult time coping with the fact that I have not seen you in six years to the date. I pray each night, (faithfully) for you and mom. So much has happened that I wish I could sit down and share them all with you. I would give anything to hear your wisdom, to tell me it's all going to be ok. I try to stay strong and help everyone out; I still struggle with my own demons.
You would be so proud of Ralph and I dad, we are doing it! We are one! We have worked so hard and it is paying off. I wish you were here to share in this adventure with us. Your knowledge would have paid off. Thanksgiving day is fast approaching, and then Christmas. Memories dad, thank you for the memories.
Eternal love
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2009
How can I find the words......
To let you know how much I care?......
To Thank-you, Dad, for all you’ve done,......
For always being there.......
You’ve been friend as well as father,......
Walking with me all through life,......
Through the joy and through the laughter,......
Through the heartache and the strife.......
You’re the best I could have hoped for,......
And with gratitude I see.........
The sweet lifetime of devotion,......
You invested here in me.......
I am proud to be your daughter,......
Thankful for the times we’ve had,......
And with all that is within me,......
I feel blessed that you’re my Dad.
I miss you so badly dad. Love always your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 07, 2009
I love and miss you with all my heart and soul
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 06, 2009
Mom, spending time with you on your birthday was very meaningful to all your children. I was happy to be telling you all the things they wanted you to know. I know that you are watching over us all the time. There is not a day that goes by without me thinking about you and the many times we shared. You were such an inspiration to me. When I am feeling weary, I talk to you and imagine your replies. You always knew what to say. Each of us has very special memories of you. I lie in your bed each night and feel you come and lay down beside me, only then do I fall asleep contented. I see you in every room and often look over to see you sitting in your chair, watching tv (lifetime movies) or teasing pepi before you give him his own lolli-pop. He would lie at your feet holding the sucker with his front paws. I remember all our talks and discussions, our revelations, sorrows and good times. I thank you so much for being a co-parent to Shirliza. She holds you in her heart. Maybe next year we will see a child from her. Thank you for the friendship, counsel and unending love you had in such great supply. Thank you for teaching us all how to love. You blessed me with sisters and brothers that love and care for each other. I thank you also for giving Dad and me the time together to overcome all our differences and to become a close friend to him. I know you are both happy and you are making a home where one day all of us will be living with you again. Until then..... I love you deeply.
~
Victoria Lewis,
Modesto, California
August 04, 2009
Mama,
How did you find the energy, Mom
To do all the things you did,
To be teacher, nurse and counselor
To me, when I was a kid.
How did you do it all, Mom,
Be a chauffeur, cook and friend,
Yet find time to be a playmate,
I just can’t comprehend.
I see now it was love, Mom
That made you come whenever I'd call,
Your inexhaustible love, Mom
And I thank you for it all.
Happy Birthday to my only Mama and I love you so much!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 03, 2009
Happy Birthday Mom,
I wish, oh how I wish, I wish that we could be together again. I miss you more today than I did yesterday. It doesn't get easier mom. I love you so much. David made us a snow ball cake, did you like it? Mom you are my heart. I miss you and love you forever and ever
Amen~~~~
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 17, 2009
Elvis, aprons, popcorn & Hershey bars, glass of Pepsi, Frisch’s Big Boy, Southland 75 drive-in, potato salad, snowball cake, tic tacs, naps, having me brush her hair, saving my from the Sohiemes, Dairy Queen foot long mustard dogs, McDonald's, Elvis, singing Loretta Lynn songs, dancing to Elvis, wigs, Nettie, Muggy, Grandma. night gowns, slippers, cookies, nicknamed my Travis, dedicated a song "I Can Help" to me, Reno, coming to Mike's wedding waiting to see him dedicate a song to his dad: priceless, dancing with all us girls, sleeping together and me giggling have the night, roses, adored and loved her mother, salami, ring bologna and Colby cheese, "Wait until your father gets home", loving, strong, stubborn, caring, gorgeous smile and now resting in peace. I love you Mom and I miss you terribly.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 12, 2009
OMG, dad is it really true, are you my guardian angel? I am speechless!! I love you with all my heart and soul. you are forever inside of me daddy
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
July 05, 2009
Today I was at a restaurant eating and I looked over and seen a man eating all alone and you dad came to my mind, I started to cry. So many good memories yes and this is what keeps me going. We will always miss you just as my kids will miss me and it goes on. We are just never ready for loss. I love you Mom & Dad and I miss you both.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 03, 2009
Happy 4th of July Dad & Mom,
Another one come and gone. Today 3 of your children will be together making memories. We will laugh (cuz of David) smile (cuz of Vicky), and scratch our heads (cuz of me). We will celebrate another occasion without you!! We miss you so much. Time does not heal, you were right mom, you were always right.
Eternal Love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
June 21, 2009
Happy Father’s day to my very special beautiful handsome daddy.
Oh how I wish we could be together. I miss everything about you. Life is so fast, many heartbreaks. I miss our daily talks dad, I miss your wisdom and your strength. I miss you telling me every day how beautiful I am and how proud you are of me. I miss you telling me everything would be ok.
Today they celebrate fathers, I celebrate you every day. You are so much a part of me.
Until~~~~
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
June 21, 2009
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY DADDY. I HAVE SO MANY MEMORIES AND SO MUCH I'D LOVE TO SHARE WITH YOU. YOUR CRASH IS ABOUT TO BECOME A DADDY. YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF HIM. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH~ ROXANNE
June 21, 2009
Blue eyes, smile, fishing, Louie & Sons, Watching Cinderella late at night with you with Sandy, Snails, advice, wisdom, knowledge, love notes to our mama, pitching pennies, swimming pool (Kercher) getting night crawlers, fighting for us girls to wear pants under our skirts/dresses to school and winning, cinnamon rolls, flowers, crafts, Big Boy, Southland 75, Having Muggy babysit 8 kids so you & mom could have some time alone, dreaming, loving our mama for 50+ years, being strict, working hard all your life, smiling when you see me show up to your door and crying when I left. Being so strong in your little girls eyes, loving each and every one of us the same.
This is a drop in a bucket of water that you have given to me dad, my life holds emptiness inside with you gone and I will never 'get used' to your being gone. I know you are resting right beside our mama and our Johnny but today especially I celebrate you Dad. I love you so much!
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 12, 2009
when i go to view the guest book of john and Shirley Lewis it says right below this box ... add photo to this entry ... well as long as you have a photo in your computer or a web cam it is possible to do that anymore advice you need on that I’d be glad to share that with you .....Bob
~
Bob Mcclellan,
dallas, Texas
May 11, 2009
Mom you were celebrated on Mother’s Day:
Hello Sisters, I want to wish you all a very special mother’s day . Look deep into your hearts and you will all find many good memories that our mother gave to each of us with all her love. Find only good and happy memories, you will see her eyes looking at you with care and love. You will see her smile, You will see her sing and you will see her dance. When you look deep and see these memories you will feel her love for that will never fade. Be happy and feel joy for her this day put all sadness aside. You will all feel her inside of you for the rest of our lives.
Now take a look around you and give others this love you have inside they may have not been as lucky as we are. A hug or a kiss or just a simple word , it’s an emotion that to many of us hide. I love you all and hope you all have a good mother’s day.
I looked deep inside and I saw mom run through the living room and at 220 east 40th and with Elvis music blasting and to my surprise she leaped real high and did a jumping karate kick to this music and it’s a memory that will always make me smile.
I love you David Wayne Lewis
I remember so much, I could go on and on. But I would like share when we all lived on 220 E 40th Ave San Mateo, and mom worked at Los Prados Inn, she would come home and David, Lori and my self would have her a ice code diet Pepsi ready for her, one of us (who ever could get to her first) would run and take off her shoes and put her feet up, then we would turn on Elvis and out on a dancing show for her. Mom loved it. She later told me she couldn't wait to come home each night to see what us kids came up with. So many memories.
Any one else care to share a memory??
Love to you all
Debbie
This has got to be the best Mother's Day so far. Although we are all miles apart, we have joined together in the heart. I know Mom is smiling down on all of us today and is that a happy tear in the corner of her eye? These memories are all so wonderful but I think there is one memory that we all will laugh when we think about it. David's house on Northampton. Two others have yet to reply.....
Victoria Ann The Rotten Tomato Can.
I remember on Kercher I always got to go grocery shopping with Mom cause afterwards we would hit up DQ for the foot long chili dog. I remember Mom coming to MN and her & I snuck down to the casino while Gary was at work and I handed Mom $500 the look on her face was priceless. we got home before Gary did and then Gary says "Hey anyone want to go to the casino tonight"? Mom & I looked at each other giggled and said "sure sounds like fun"!
I love you Mom, Carlene
Thank you David for this beautiful E-mail! U r rite and this is something I do quite often. Mom is in my thoughts and lives in my memory on a daily basis. Me and my girls do a few and say a few little things on a regular basis and we say" this is for Grandma'" or if we have a choice of color of something, we always pick Purple "for Grandma". It has always been important to me to share as much as I can with my girls about their grandparents, it helps keep their memory alive and always lets Gabby and Amanda know where they come from, were I came from. Poor little Gabby wus too young to remember MOM, she remembers her Bop Pop a little, but sharing all that I do with them, every day of our lives, has helped even Gabby feel and know about her wonderful Grandparents that are up in heaven rite now.
Sharing time: I'll never forget that night at the dinner table when MOM held up a spoonful of vanilla pudding and teased DAD, like she was gunna flick it on him. DAD said, I dare u!!! And MOM did, boy, all us kids just held are breath, scarred to breath or say anything, till DAD burst out in laughter!!!! Then we all joined in laughing too!!! That was a funny, and yet a happy memory that I just pulled out of my brain to share with you.
I hope that every one of us can find a happy memory of theirs and share it with the rest of us this year in tribute to our MOTHER, SHIRLEY ANN LEWIS.
I love you momma!!! Thank you for everything and then some, you deserve it!
Thank you everyone for sharing! Mom truly must be smiling down on us. These are some priceless memories~! I think we gave MOM a Happy Mother’s Day this year.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 10, 2009
Happy Mother’s Day Mom
Another day come and gone
Another day of my insides crying for you
Another day of missing you
Another day of asking why?
Another day of thinking
Another day of yearning
Another day, Another day
I would give anything to be with you Mom, I miss our daily talks, I miss your smile, and your laughter. I can only pray that you are at peace my beautiful mother, Thank you for everything you have ever done for me and for making me the woman I am today
UNTIL--------
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 09, 2009
If I knew as a child what I know now, Mom,
I know I wouldn't have made things
so hard for you.
I would have understood
that you were looking out for my best interest.
even though it may not have seemed so at the time.
I would have known how difficult it is to let go,
to stand back and let someone you love
learn from their mistakes.
I would have realized
how fortunate I was to have a mother
who was always there for me,
even after an argument,
even after I'd said things
I shouldn't have.
While it's too late for a lot of things
it's never too late for me to tell you
that I appreciate how loving you are,
how giving you've always been
and that even though I may not always be good at showing it,
I love you very much. Happy Mother's Day Mom
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 08, 2009
wow the memories must be great ...thanks you guys for posting pictures it’s nice to see you guys if that’s the only way i can see you. i know your parents are resting in eternal peace ...god bless you all. Bob McClellan
~
ROBERT MCCLELLAN,
DALLAS, Texas
May 01, 2009
May 1st 1953 this day made history to the Lewis children, for this is the day that you both became one. This is the day that bound you both together for all eternity. Thank you for loving each other so deeply and purely. You created 8 beautiful children who will carry on your legacy. we will continue to love like you taught us. We will continue to miss you and mourn you. Until~~~
Enjoy your day, you have my eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 01, 2009
Happy 56th anniversary Mom & Dad. Dad you were in my dreams last night,. Thank you for holding my hands while I was crying. Your eyes said it all. I know you are both in each other’s arms and you are dancing and Grandma is sitting there watching with the biggest smile on her face. I love you both with all my heart.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 16, 2009
Happy birthday Johnny. I wish I could have you back in my life. I miss you so much. I know you are resting in eternal peace with our parents. But I want to feel selfish today and I want you in my everyday life. I will never forget all our memories Johnny. I have so many of them with you. Not everyone can say they have these so I am blessed. You would be 53 today. I just miss you big brother. I love you for always.
You’re Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 12, 2009
Happy Easter to you all. May you find all your eggs today. How proud you must be daddy, for all of your kids have not let you down. We are stronger than ever for each other. Your wish came true.
Eternal love
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
April 09, 2009
We little knew that morning
That God would call your name.
In life we loved you dearly;
In death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone,
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide,
And though we cannot see you,
You are always by our side.
Our family chain is broken
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.
How I miss you Dad so much. I have all your emails and yes I went through them today. What memories I have and thankful for each of them. Happy Birthday Dad and I love very much! Your Only Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 09, 2009
Happy Birthday to my Hero, to my best friend, to the smartest man I will ever know, to my beloved daddy.
Was that you this morning daddy?
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
April 08, 2009
Happy Birthday Daddy,
Another year, come and gone. Another year without you. I would give anything to spend one day with you, one hour, even one moment. I miss you daddy. So much has happened to me since you left me. I wish to call you and tell you all about it. You were my rock daddy. I hope you have a great birthday. I bet you asked for a snowball cake and Johnny got the first piece. Please hug mom and know that you are loved and missed more than ever.
Eternal love to you
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
March 30, 2009
Would it have been easier had I been ready to lose my parents? I don't think so, not at all. I do not think anyone can be ready. Mom & Dad my heart aches from not having you two still with us. Some days worse than others. Your little Hottie got married mama. Please reach out and touch him with his new wife and bless them. I love and miss you both terribly.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
|
February 27, 2009
It is that time of year again Mom & Dad. Debbie & I will be meeting again on vacation to make the memories we make each year. I know I don’t need to ask you both to be with us for you both are with us all the time. I miss you both so much. I have so many "I wish I would have...." but I cannot go back. I love you Mom, Dad & Johnny.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 26, 2009
My heart misses you more and more each and every day. Know that you are so deeply loved and missed.
Until~~~
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine’s day to you, Mom I hope are dancing with our dad, I miss you so deeply. Love to you always and forever
Amen
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
February 05, 2009
A new year!!! You are so missed; time will never heal my broken heart. Please guide all of your children in this 2009 year. We all have a piece of your hearts, and you each took a piece of our hearts when you left us.
Know that you are so missed and so deeply loved.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 16, 2009
God only knows how much I miss you! Sometimes I don’t know how I make it day by day.
You both took my heart when you left,
Eternal love to you
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 31, 2008
Another year has come and gone. I pray mom & dad that you will continue to watch over each one of your children as we hit 2009 with a bang. Give us the strength we will each need to walk up any hills we may need to climb. We all are still coping with losing both of you. May we all keep in touch and grow closer and closer as a family.
Always,
Carlene
~
Carlene ORLOFF,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 25, 2008
Another Christmas day finds me "thinking". Carlene made those famous calendars of hers. Once again she outdid herself. I know you are smiling at them with a look of awe on your faces. AS you seen, we spent the holidays together no matter what. Today we will visit with our brother and make more memories. Oh how I wish! I wish I had one more chance! I wish I had one more touch, I wish I had one more hug, I wish I had one more~~~ I love you so much and miss you more than my heart can take. The tears NEVER stop. I was taught never give up, so I will Never give up. A very Merry Christmas to you all in heaven.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 24, 2008
I did the calendars mom & dad. Debbie says you would be real pleased with them. It has not been the same making them since we have lost you. I guess I was mainly making the calendars mostly for you both. I have such memories of Debbie sharing with me your reactions while looking at them. I am very lucky to have such memories. I miss you and I miss talking with you. We are trying real hard but none of us kids were remotely prepared for a loss of such magnitude. We all miss you both so much. I love you Mom & Dad & Johnny. Merry Christmas.
~
Carlene ORLOFF,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 14, 2008
I love you all with all my heart! You are so missed. I pray each night for you. The holidays bring out so many old memories of you. My how you made our Christmas' magical. Your legacy lives on in us and we live on through our children. Wish you were here, eternal love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2008
My handsome daddy,
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I miss you more today than yesterday. You were my rock daddy, you were my strength, you are my heart. Today marks 5 long lonely years without you. Those beautiful baby blue eyes, your handsome face, your big smile. Your knowledge, your advice, your strong arms wrapped around me. Mt heart cries for you daddy. So much has happened since you left. I have needed your advice and your wisdom. I hope you are guiding me in the right direction daddy. I hope all of us kids are making you proud; you loved us all so much and were afraid of "our" family falling apart. You and Mom did better than that. We are strong dad. we all love each other and are there for one another no matter what.
From my heart to yours.
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2008
It has been a very long 5 years dad since we lost you. It is just as hard today as it was 5 years ago. Oh how I miss you so bad, how I long to call you and email you. Each of your children still has a very hard time dealing with your being gone. It just was not supposed to happen. You said you would be with us until you were 100. I miss you so much dad and I love so much!!
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene ORLOFF,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 17, 2008
I cannot believe it will soon be 5 years since I was able to speak to you dad, let alone see you. My life is empty without you in it. I still catch myself so many times talking out loud asking you questions. You are the smartest man I will ever have the privilege of knowing. I miss you something terrible dad. I love you with all my heart.
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 05, 2008
Eternal Love to you
always and forever
Amen
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
October 10, 2008
Thinking of you always, my heart is just plain aching for you. Johnny, David and I went to your old home and the memories that David shared with me about you two are priceless. My gosh the crap you both pulled. I miss you Johnny, life robbed you at such a tender young age. I love you, I hope you are being good for mom and dad. please wrap your arms around them and hug each of them for your brother and all of your sisters, can you kiss mom on the cheek from all of us like we always used to do?
Until~~~~
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
October 08, 2008
Here I am watching TV and forever thinking about you both. I just miss you both always and I love you. Always, Carlene
~
Carlene ORLOFF,
COTTAGE GROVE, Minnesota
September 21, 2008
Eternal Love to you!
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 26, 2008
Well I will be having surgery 'again' this Friday. If is is at all possible mom & dad while I am under please come to me. I always keep you both & Johnny in my dreams and in the silent darkness of my nights. I know you will all be with me. I miss you and I love you all so deeply.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 16, 2008
I bet heaven is celebrating ELVIS today mom. Can you tell him he will always be the king, and I look forward to meeting him when my time has come? What does dad think of him? You are so deeply missed mom, I will hold in my heart our special times of when you took me to see your ELVIS. I will never forget watching you, I watched you more then I watched him. I love you momma.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 04, 2008
Happy Birthday Momma,
I hope you are dancing with that beautiful smile on your face. Heaven is so lucky to have you, all you wanted was to be happy and peaceful and no more pain. You got your wish. I love you so much mom an miss you more and more
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 04, 2008
Happy Birthday Mom I always mixed up yours and Debbie's birthday dates I am so sorry. Time has certainly been flying by. My life will never be the same without my mom and I truly believed (as most children do) that my parents would be with me forever. I know you are resting in dad's arms and smiling at our Johnny. Your life was cut short and that is and has been so hard for us kids to deal with...it just did not have to be. I miss you mom and I love you so. Happy Birthday Mom
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 03, 2008
Hi Mom,
I cannot believe you turn 73 today. At 66 you looked 50. I bet you are more beautiful than ever, As they say time stands still in heaven. I miss you so much mom. Your children still live on through you, as today all my sisters and my brother either sent me emails, or called me and sang to me. Vicky was the first; she called me at 6:30 AM!!! This time of year is just not right; we always did our birthdays together. Will I ever see you again mom? will you come visit me in my dreams? Will you brush up against me and let me smell you, can you hug Johnny for me. Will you wrap your arms around my daddy and tell him that I miss him and love him to pieces. Will you do those things for me? This is my birthday wish.
David gave me a card last night and wrote in it that I was the strength of the family, I try to be strong, but nobody sees inside of me. I cry for you daily. I miss your smile, your smell, your touch, your voice, your laughter. I miss you terribly.
Until~~~~~
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 20, 2008
Today my baby boy gets married, I hope that I can feel your arms wrapped around me and help hold me up. You both would be so proud of the man he has become. I am so proud of him. Thank you for never giving up on him and loving him.
Love to you both
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
June 15, 2008
Dad,
This day they dedicate to fathers all around this world. They didn't know you. I dedicate every day to you. You were worshiped by your wife and children. You are the braviest man I will ever know in my lifetime. You were put on this earth to bear children. You treated each one of us equally. You loved each one us the same. Your life was hard daddy, but you showed each one of your children to never walk away, never give up but mostly you taught us to love with our hearts. I love you so completely and so deeply. My heart and soul is yours dad. Only yours. Eternal love
P.S. please tell mom that i listened to ELVIS all weekend long and cried happy tears, the memories are still tucked away inside. Every so often I let some escape. The pain is real, so very very real.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
June 14, 2008
Happy Father's Day
Did I ever say thank you
for all the toys you mended,
games we played,
outings to the park,
and the way you
always tried to cheer
me when I was down?
Did I ever say thank you for
the sacrifices you made
so I could be involved
in so many enriching
activities?
Did I ever say thank you for
working so hard
to provide for our family?
Did I ever say thank you
for having such faith in me
and always being there
when I needed you?
Most of all,
Did I ever say thank you for caring?
Thank you for loving me?
DAD, I LOVE YOU
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 06, 2008
I miss you mom & dad so much. Some days more than others are more painful I don't know why maybe I am not as busy or something. None of us kids will ever forget you both. Sometimes when I think of the reality of you both being in heaven I get dizzy and anxious for I just want you here on earth with us, alive and happy. But I have so many wonderful memories and that alone is helping me day by day. Till we are all in each other's arm together...your daughter...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 23, 2008
Dad,
As I stare at your picture each night before I close my eyes, I pray that somehow you will come to me. I miss you more than ever dad, you were my world, you filled my days with laughter, your wisdom overwhelmed me, your deep piercing blue eyes loved me. You will always be the most handsome man in my heart. Many years back I gave you a flower that sang, you cried and told me that you loved it, then I would get phone calls from you and when I said "hello" I would hear the song in my ear. I hope you can hear me now dad, know how much I love you and miss you.
You are my sunshine
My only sunshine
You make me happy
When skies are gray
You'll never know dad
How much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away.
Eternal love daddy
Always and forever
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 11, 2008
Happy Mother’s Day Momma
See what your baby did for you and for her sisters and brothers. We love you so deeply mom. We wish we could all be together today. As half of your kids gather at my house to celebrate you, know that you are missed and loved and cherished. A very happy mother’s day to our very special mother
~
The Lewis Children,
California
May 10, 2008
Happy Mother's Day Mama. Life is not the same anymore mama. Please let us know you are with us every day. We all need to know this. I love you mom.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 01, 2008
May 1st. Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. Boy do I miss you both so much. If you are trying to say something to Sandy please keep trying. We will always believe.
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 28, 2008
I love you so deeply. What is it you are trying to relay to Barbie? What is it? Are you all OK?
Please watch over all your children and keep us all safe and healthy.
Eternal Love
~
Daddy’s Girl,
California
April 16, 2008
Happy Birthday Johnny. Mom & Dad I bet you all are having a wonderful celebration. At least believing in that gives me more comfort in your being gone. Johnny I just listened to the song that I dedicated to you and man did I reminiscing over our memories, A life cut so short. It wasn't fair Johnny. I love you and until we meet again...your sister, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 08, 2008
Happy Birthday Daddy
Today I celebrate your life, for this very special day 77 years ago you were brought into this world, your jet black hair, your deep blue eyes. God toured you to meet a very young beautiful red head fiery woman; you fell in love and created 8 children who worshiped you both.
You brought us up to love, cherish and honor you both. Our birthdays were to celebrate life. We all loved so hard and so deep we did not think of death. When death came we all stood in shock. We cannot be together now we can't see you, we cannot touch you, BUT we will never stop loving you and missing you.
Today I celebrate you, I hope you know how much you are loved. Happy Birthday dad. I think mom made you a snowball cake for your birthday and Johnny ate most of it. Please keep our home warm and safe for us, we will all be together one day. Oh what a day that will be. Until then please know dad, just please hear me when I talk to you every night before I close my eyes and drift off to sleep. Please watch over your children. Keep us all safe dad. I need your help.
You have half my heart in heaven with you. The other half down here is trying so hard.
You have my eternal love daddy
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
April 08, 2008
Happy birthday Dad. I never ever imagined I would live my life every day as I am without you and mom. But I am and we all do. Even if we don't want to. I still do not want to accept that you are gone. Today dad I celebrate you and I think about all my memories that I hold in my heart. I miss you dad. I still have the snails in my garden. I always will. I love you always and happy birthday. Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 02, 2008
Mom and Dad,
I am so sorry is all I can say. You were right dad, you were always right. I give up. I have tried so hard, but no more. I cannot describe the pain inside of me, why! There is nothing more that I will do.
I will live my life and will never stop thinking of you and loving you. Until we can be together, don't forget me. We will be together one day.
Eternal love
~
Debbie,
California
March 07, 2008
Dear Mom & Dad...tomorrow Sandy & I will celebrate you both bringing us into your life’s. I wish I could remember more when we were real little. Man did we get into mischief or what. It had to have been a real challenge to tell us apart all those years. I still don't fully know how you came up with my name though.
Debbie & I had a lot of fun in Mazatlan. We saw an Elvis impersonator but get this he looks like Jim Carry.
I love you and yes I think of you and hold you both in my heart daily.
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 12, 2008
It is almost that time of year once again Mom & Dad that Debbie & I go on our exotic vacation together. I always felt guilty that I was taking a week and spending it with Debbie rather than with my parents. But when we got home we shared it all with you both. This time neither of us can share it with you so that means you'll just have to be there with us in spirit. We are both very lucky to be able to get together like we do once a year and make memories. It has made us as close to one another as sisters and best friends could ever imagine being. It is so true that we miss you every moment of our days, it is true we cannot bring you back, it is true we have to accept that you are together and at peace. You had your time and GOD called you home. Be with us Mom & Dad while we go on this trip. Let us feel you with us. Show us a sign or something please.
I love you to eternity and back, your daughter (who still speaks her mind) Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 01, 2008
Dear God,
I was wondering if you could help me? You see I haven't had any contact with my parents since you called them home. I miss them beyond words. Can you let me know how they are? Can you wrap your arms around them and let them feel my love? Can you whisper in their ears how much they are loved and missed? Can you do this for me god? I never ask much from anyone. I am the giver, I always have been. If you could do this one thing for me, I promise to continue to be the loving caring giving person that my parents created. Please give me some sort of sign that you have done this for me.
Eternal love
and eternal Thanks
~
Debbie Schletter,
California
January 21, 2008
I love you so much, there isn't a day that goes by that my heart doesn't ache for you. Life is so strange, hours turn into days, days turn into months and then to years. Mom you told me when grandma passed away that time doesn't heal your broken heart. I believe you, my heart will never heal from losing you. I can only hope that you are all at peace, and that there is no more pain in your new world. You all suffered so much. I will never forget your smiles, those beautiful smiles. Please continue to watch over your children. God knows how much we all love you and miss you.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 01, 2008
Life is short and a precious gift. May each one of us kids always live each day to its fullest. There is no doubt that we all miss you and still grieve over our loss. We all pray that you are able to be there for us when our time comes with open arms. This is when we will all be together.
Yes It is a new year. Happy New Year Dad, Mom and Johnny. I love you all so much.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 31, 2007
Another year come and gone. where has the time gone. I miss you so much. My heart will ache for you for all time. Please continue to watch over your children and guide them to do "right" Remind us of the love that you instilled in each of us. Happy New Year to you, I hope you are all at peace and know that you are missed more than eternity
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 24, 2007
Another Christmas comes and goes and you know what...you are always with me. I know you are always with each one of us kids. I find myself talking about our Christmas' growing up and how you dad went out of your way to make sleigh marks on the roof. No wonder I believed in Santa for so long. When we lost you each one of our lives changed. Once changed there is no going back. I miss you Mom your passing was so not right. You should have been with us for many more years. Your kids love you and miss you terribly. Dad you were the strength of this family and yes each one of us kids loved and adored you. Johnny I really miss you. Your life was cut so short. I have a web site dedicated for you and I also have one for mom & dad. Be with us until we come to you. Merry Christmas and I miss and love you dearly.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas, today we will celebrate this wonderful holiday together as a family. We will laugh and we will cry. We will feel our loss when we start to open our presents. We will all sit down and open up our beautiful calendars and the memories will come rushing back, a few of us will look around to look for you both. You taught us to never give up, to stay strong and love our family. I am not ashamed to say, I have come close to giving up, I have come close to being too weak, but I have never stopped loving my family. Today we will carry on the LEWIS Christmas as you taught us, we will all gather and eat cold cuts, and David is our new cinnamon roll maker. (He even made them without raisons) I must say that touched my heart more then he will know. Two of my sisters will join me and we will celebrate what you taught us.
2008 will bring your kids more challenges, more pain, more happiness and more love. No matter how much time goes by our love for you will never fade, it will grow. Merry Christmas to you all, I ask of you only one thing, that is to please watch over us all and guide us, and give us the strength to endure what lies ahead.
Eternal love
~
Debbie AKA Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 18, 2007
Today I was reminded in a special way to always look for the good in everyone that I touch each and every day. Someone did such a nice gesture today and the first thing I thought of was my mom and dad. It was and has been what you both have taught us kids all along. God sure speaks in mysterious ways. I believe it was you both reminding me today. I thank you for this and for being with me today I miss you both so much. I love you mom and dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 13, 2007
"THANK YOU" I know we are doing the "right" thing now. Thank you so much for showing me that it will all be alright. You raised me to love my family so deeply. when it is my time to come home to you, I know they will all say "Debbie loved her family more than anything". I made a promise to you both and i will always keep it. Please keep giving me the strength to stay strong for everyone.
I love you so deeply and miss you terribly.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2007
Thanksgiving was beautiful; as I worked side by side with my husband cooking so many beautiful memories were rushing through my head. I prayed for health and happiness for everyone. I thanked everyone who came to our home, I wished my sisters who could not be with us health and happiness. We always spent Thanksgiving together. Dad you sitting at the head of the table a fork in each hand hitting the table saying "I want to eat". Mom you would be sitting next to dad with your beautiful smile. We would all say thanks and enjoy each other’s company and eat until we couldn't move. Oh what I would give to do this again, just one more time. But one more time wouldn't be good enough I would only want more. I love you all so much and miss you more and more. Until we meet again you have my eternal love.
~
Daddy's Girl
November 22, 2007
As I awake to another sad holiday my heart swells as the tears run from my eyes. The thought of thanking you for giving is all I can think of. So I thank you for giving me your will to forgive this I have passed on to my children. I thank you for giving me the strength to never give up. I thank you for giving me six sisters and one brother they are all part of my heart. I thank you giving me the power to care, this I have passed on to so many. I thank you for giving me part of your selves this I share with the world. Thank you for teaching me to give. As I wipe another tear I thank you for giving me no fear to show my emotions. Together we are as you are both alive within my heart and my soul.
Thank you for giving.
Love, David Wayne Lewis
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
November 21, 2007
Thanksgiving....last night as I lay in the dark listening to my husband lightly snoring I took a trip down memory lane. Reminiscing about my family memories of thanksgiving. At first I had to really search my memory banks for the last thanksgiving I had as a family with my family was when I was 16 years old. Slowly the details came back to me. The mashed potatoes, turkey, mom’s delicious stuffing, the homemade pies. Above all that I remember the most that we sat at the table together as a family. I always missed my family even more as the holidays neared. This year my thanksgiving will be with my children and grandchildren and my memories of my family will also be with me at all times.
Happy Thanksgiving Mom & Dad & Johnny I love you all so very much.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 18, 2007
Oh my beautiful daddy,
Four years and not a day that goes by that I do not think of you, Not a day that goes by that I don't ache for you. I miss you more and more. It DOES NOT get easier as "they" say. When I pray to you it seems things work out, so I would like to think you are always listening and watching over your kids. Some days are harder than others. Now we are faced with the holidays approaching us, you were the holiday’s daddy; I will NEVER forget your face, or your heart. You are and always will be my HERO.
Eternal Love to you my very beautiful father of mine.
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
November 13, 2007
I see I wrote I lost mom on Nov. 17th and it was entered in error by me, for when I think of losing mom or dad I think of both of them together.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 12, 2007
I am here, like you, because we share a loss. I lost my precious Mom on Nov. 17th. It happened suddenly & unexpectedly. I miss her so much and feel like I just don't know how to live without her. Her passing has left such a huge void in my life & the lives of my siblings. Nothing seems right without her around. I am afraid & alone & sometimes don't know how I will go on without her. Losing my mom the entire ordeal is like a blur. One day at a time is what I hear people tell me and that is the only way to make it through each day.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 09, 2007
Thank you for allowing me to "BELIEVE" You are here with us, thank you. Please continue to help your children.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 07, 2007
My very precious mom and dad,
Where are you when I need you the most in my life. I hope you can help me to hold this family together, we are falling apart, please help me. You gave me both a part of your heart; I love with my full heart. Please watch over your kids and help each of them in this very trying time for us all.
Eternal love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 14, 2007
Mama
I caused you a lot pain and I didn't care, but you still loved me.
Please forgive me Mama.
I hurt you in so many ways but you were always there for me.
Please forgive me Mama.
When you gave me advice, I didn't listen and I have so many regrets.
Please forgive me Mama.
If I knew then what I know now, I would have told you every day how much I loved you.
Please forgive me Mama.
When you were growing older, I didn't want to hear about your aches and pains. You waited for my calls and visits that never came.
I always made excuses why I couldn't be there for you.
Please forgive me Mama.
I know now there is no greater love like your love Mama, and how much I need you right now to hold me and kiss me and tell me you forgive me.
Now that I am older, I realize why I should have been there for you when you needed me.
Please forgive me Mama.
I need you now Mama. How I long to see your beautiful smile and feel your loving touch and tell me everything will be all right like you used to.
Please forgive me Mama.
Can you hear me Mama as I say these words? Can you hear what I am saying? Can you hear how much I love you and how much I miss you?
I don't know when the good lord is coming for me, but I hope you will be waiting, so I could hug you and hold you in my arms and tell you how much I love you.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
September 03, 2007
Please watch over your family Mom and Dad, we need you more than ever.
Your loved is felt from every direction, please embrace us now.
~
Lewis Children
August 27, 2007
It is OK in every sense of the word. Some seem to kick back and wait for their life to be fixed or taken care of, we know or I should say I know that was never your intent Mom & Dad. When you two left this world some gave up. Don't be upset but rather send your angels to let them know you are seeing everything.
Yes we all miss you and sometimes I wish I were with you now. But until the time comes please know that I love you always...
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 23, 2007
Another month comes and goes. So much going on. When will it ever stop? I beg you to help me cope.
I miss you so deeply, I love you for eternity
~
Daddy’s Girl Belmont,
California
August 12, 2007
I miss you so much. I love you with every ounce of me.
Please help me to watch over our family.
Eternal love
~
Daddy’s Girl,
Belmont, California
August 06, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM,
I wrote you such a long message, however it was not printed. But you know exactly what I said.
I love you forever
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 03, 2007
Happy Birthday Mom.
What are you doing for your birthday
Are you celebrating and laughing today
Flying as high as you’ve ever been
Are you lacking anything
I hope you are doing everything
That makes you happy
Slipping in and out of the clouds, maybe
Catching up with your sister
Chatting it up with your mother
Stopping by to see your dad
To visit with our Johnny sure would be grand
Are you feeling the love sent to you from down here
Do you know we still wish you near
All I want for you is happiness
Happy Birthday Mom, and God Bless
I love you dearly,
With all my love,
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 17, 2007
To My Mom on this day
Today is my mom’s 5th anniversary of joining Johnny.
In the past five years, I have struggled to express my love and thanks. I decided to write this (e-mail) letter today explaining what she (my momma) means to me and what it has meant to be her daughter. Mom and Dad: What a sad day it is today Mom, I sit at work AND GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS OF ‘WORK’. I think to myself this is not right my mom is in California just give her a call, and then reality sets in and gets my heart under control. I wanted to let you know what it meant for me to be your daughter. Throughout my life, I have never doubted your love. I have never doubted your support. And perhaps most importantly, I have never once doubted that we 8 kids were the luckiest children in the world by having you and dad as our parents. Despite your marital problems, I saw the strength of your love for each other. Never once have I questioned your love for each other. It is as evident and constant as the sun rising every morning. The constant bedrock of my life has been Mom working on a crossword at the kitchen table and Dad watching the game with his eyes closed in his recliner. That stability never fails to make me smile nor give me comfort when I think of it. Looking back, I am grateful for all of your contributions to shaping my life. Some of my earliest memories are of Dad's special cinnamon rolls and Mom you ironing clothes for extra milk money for us kids. 1 basket full of clothes earned her 50 cents. Going for that foot long hot dog….mustard and relish you would always request. Giving each of us kids a quarter to go up to Andy’s. You’re going along with the family fishing trips, the crazy slide Southland 75 and how could I forget; Frisch’s? What it means to be a parent is something I cherish and I tried as best I could with my own children and I wish I had known that raising children is quite a responsibility. And how I wish my own children had the chance to know you as I have. To feel a grandmother’s love. Your love. I know my teenage years were incredibly difficult for you. But I always knew that you were there for me. I knew that no matter how bad it got, I could count on you to be there. Like all children, especially teenagers, I pushed you away at times. But what I knew then as much as I know now is that even though I pushed you away, you would still be right there, exactly where I needed you. With your love, I was able to shed those dark times and become the woman I am today. As I grow older, I realize with each passing day how special it was to have you as my mom. You have been the example I hope to be to my children, and I thank you for everything you have done. No matter what you did or didn’t do it was the best you knew how at the time. I want you to know that I love you with all of my heart and of how proud I am to be your daughter. I wish I could have known you when you were a young woman. I still hear the song you dedicated to me Mom. It brings tears to my eyes and so many questions to my heart. You always made me stay in to brush your hair every day while you napped; sometimes I was mad because I wanted to go outside and play. Now I am glad I was asked. Growing up I lived each day as if you and dad both were invincible. Growing old? Having health problems? No way that was not going to ever enter as a thought therefore I was not prepared to lose any of you. It is sad in a way but losing you has pushed me to make a difference in my children and grandchildren’s life. I don’t want to be forgotten I think that is what scares me. I promise to my last breath I will not forget you. I miss you mom. And no losing someone you love does not get better with time.
With all my love,
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 16, 2007
Mom, Where are you? Where did you go? I can't see you, I miss you so much. I remember it as yesterday, we were having a diet Pepsi and laughing, I washed your hair, but would always correct you by saying "washed". So many laughs, so many tears, so many wonderful memories. Life was so unfair to you momma. You out of anyone I will ever know did not deserve what happened to you. You were born and put on this earth to give life to so many beautiful children. Your children adored you, we worshiped the ground you walked mother. I miss your voice mom, sometimes I am afraid I will not remember, but then you appear in my dreams and there you are. I am thankful for my life with you; I have so many memories, so many movies, pictures and so much laughter. Life is hard for a woman without her mother, I wish I could talk with you; I have so much to tell you. You told me that you would always be with me. Mom, where are you?
God I love you more than life itself
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 16, 2007
Mom it has been 5 years since you were taken from us. Life has not been the same. The only comfort I have is knowing you and dad are together with our Johnny. I love you Mom and I miss you every day.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 15, 2007
Mamma,
I remember being told that each of us had to go to you and tell you that it alright for you to go. That you did not have to hold on any longer. Us kids would take care of one another and Dad.
As I walked towards your side it seemed like forever. I did not want to tell you it was alright, I was feeling pretty greedy. I wanted you. I wanted you to stay with us. With me.
But as I looked at dad he nodded for me to tell you. So I did. I asked you to forgive me for all the bad I did. I wanted you to open your eyes just one more time. I wanted you to hear me say "Mom I Love You".
We always heard the hearing is the last to go so I ran out to the car got my CD player and Lori had an Elvis CD. We let you listen to Elvis as you slipped away from us. The angels loved welcoming you to heaven.
You see we or I should say I have to know this for it helps with the years of grieving.
Saying I miss you doesn't do the phrase justice. I hold an empty spot within my soul. I wasn't ready to lose our Johnny and I certainly was not ready to lose you.
I get angry Mom because you never had to go. It all could have been prevented. That is what makes me hurt every day.
By you Dad or Johnny not coming to us kids really starts making me second guess 'faith'.
The only comfort I have is that you have no more pain, sadness or bad memories. My comfort is that you are with your parents and Dad and Johnny.
I Love You Mom. I Love you to infinity!
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 12, 2007
I love you all with all of my heart and soul. You are all so missed. I can only hope that you are all at peace and pain free and loving your new home. Please wait for me with open arms when my time has come.
Eternal Love
~
Daddy’s Girl,
California
June 17, 2007
My Dear Sweet Beautiful Precious daddy of mine, oh how I miss you so terribly. Dad, life is so hard without you, so many times I wish, I just wish that you would answer when I email you or call you on your phone, so many times. I do know you are very proud of your children; we all stand by one another and will never allow anyone to hurt the other. This is all you and mom ever wanted. Since you left us, so many of our lives have changed drastically, some for the better some for the worse. But one thing will never ever change, that is the love we have for each other and for you. Oh dad, I miss you so deeply. I stare at your picture every day of my life, I see you looking back at me. I listen to your voice so I will never forget the sound. I call David a lot, I hear your voice in him. and I hear your wisdom from him. Today on father’s day I bought an RV, so many memories came rushing toward me of you, I know your dream was to own one and travel the world. Every time I will be in it I will salute you my beautiful father of mine. So many changes, so many decisions, and no one to tell me that it will all be ok. I miss your encouraging words dad; you were the only one who ever gave that to me. You were so proud of me. I am honored that I did you right. No regrets daddy. I miss "our times, and our talks" God dad I miss you so much. Today I say "HAPPY FATHERS DAY" TO THE MOST BEAUTIFULEST MAN I WILL EVER KNOW.
Eternal Love to you forever and ever
~
Daddy's Girl
June 17, 2007
If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever Dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 17, 2007
I am my father's daughter. I honor you Dad not just today because it is father's day but all my days. I have my regrets inside I wish I could have done more or said this or that. I have said a million times over I am so thankful for all the times I chose to come out to spend time with you & mom.
I have 350+ emails saved that you & I shared and I offer to my family anyone who would like me to share them let me know. It kind of tells a story of sorts and dad certainly is a wonderful story to be told.
I have not been back to California since you passed away dad and I promise I am working on coming out there. I miss you deeply and I love you wholeheartedly.
Happy Father's Day Dad from your Car 54
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 17, 2007
Sorry Dad, we never had the time
Sorry Dad, we never made the time
Sorry Dad, we never took the time
Sorry Dad, We never knew how hard it was to be a Dad
Sorry Dad, For many things
I 'm not sorry about one thing and that is that you were my Dad.
I miss you, I love you and Will always walk in your footsteps.
Thank you Dad for being the best you could. #David Wayne Lewis
~
David Lewis,
California
June 10, 2007
Mom and Dad,
Please help me to erase the pain I have reflected onto my daughter, sisters and brother. I don't ask you to help me because I will gather my "Lewis" strength and get over this great pain. I know you are both with me as I feel your presence daily. Please remember, "831" eight letters, three words, one meaning.......I Love You!
~
Victoria Lewis,
Modesto, California
June 09, 2007
Oh Momma, I am so very sorry. There is nothing left for me to do.
I wish you were here to help me. Where are you guys when I need you the most.
I miss you and love you so much
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 13, 2007
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY MOMMA
I was in Modesto yesterday and went to visit you where we laid your body to rest. It was so over whelming. I sat in my car and stared at your headstone, so many memories mom, I will never get over the empty feeling I have inside of me. I will carry this with me forever. You made me love you so deeply that I am lost without you. I asked you how was I going to live without you once and you looked at me and said I will always be with you Debbie, you told me that I was one of a kind and that I was your special Debbie. I want you to know that you are the special one mom; you always were and always will be.
Heaven is so lucky to have you mom, I wish we could be together today like we used to, I would be doing your hair and putting on a little lipstick, and you would look at me and tell me that you feel beautiful. You were always beautiful to me mom. Thank you for loving me and thank you for being my very special mom.
Eternal love to you
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 11, 2007
Today I take my hat off to you Mom. I look back at your life, when you were a child and the parenting knowledge that was never given to you. It's alright though we all learn as long as we are parents. I believe you did your very best with us kids that you knew how. Eight of us more than likely overwhelmed you and dad. I can't even imagine. I miss you and I often go back in time and revisit so many of my safe memories. You & I have so many and I thank you for them. I am sorry you never had much time for YOU. I love you always Mama you are my only Mom.
Happy Mother's Day from your daughter in MN, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 01, 2007
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad. You are missed so very much. Thank you for joining your lives together 54 years ago and bringing 8 children into this world. Thank you for your examples of love that you both have instilled in each of us. I know you are happy together and that helps me to strive for goodness so I can one day be welcomed home into your waiting arms. Please continue to look over all of us. I will imagine you both dancing to Elvis singing, "The Wonder of You." Oh, what a picture! My love for you will go on forever and ever, amen.
~
Victoria Guadamuz,
Modesto
April 30, 2007
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
May you both be wrapped in each other’s arms while dancing the night away. Thank you both for loving each other enough to have 8 beautiful children who love each other. 8 children who adored you both. 8 children who one by one will join you when the time is right. Life is hard, this we know, but one day we will all be together forever.
Please don't forget me, I yearn for you both.
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 30, 2007
Happy 54th anniversary Mom & Dad. I miss you both so much. None of our lives have been the same since the angels called you home.
I love you and miss you more every day. Happy Anniversary. 54 years together forever and always.
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 17, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNNY
Time is flying by, but I hope it stands still for you. 11 years since you went to sleep, so many unanswered questions. I will never know! So much has changed, I often wonder what you would be like today, you are so missed, but never forgotten. Mom was never the same when you left us, but now I know her heart is healed. Our loss your gain, I know mom made you your special snowball cake today, will you save us all a piece, you know how we all loved that cake. Our little Lori turns 40 tomorrow, please help her. We all love you Johnny. Please kiss mom and dad for me and tell them how much they are loved and missed. Your little sister loves her big brother forever
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 16, 2007
Johnny somewhere in my dreams tonight
I'll see you standing there
You look at me with your smile
"Hi Weenie, you look so good"
You say you were chosen for his garden
His preciously handpicked bouquet
"God really needed me,
That's why I couldn't stay"
It's said to be that angels
Are sent from above
I've always had my angel
My brother - whose heart was filled with love
Wherever the ocean meets the sky
There will be memories of you and I
(and I thank GOD that I am lucky enough to have many of them)
When I look up at that sky so blue
I will see so many visions of you
"While there's a heart in me, you'll always be a part of me."
Happy 51st birthday Johnny. Oh how I miss you and I have learned just how unfair life is. To comfort my own 'being' I will know that you went first to ready the heavens for our mom and dad. I know the three of you are together.
I'm sorry for so many of your painful times. I wish I had stayed in Callie and spent more time with you.
I will always cherish my last visit with you. The time we spent the day with you at your place. I miss you always Johnny and that will never go away. I love you dearly!
Your sister, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 10, 2007
Dearest Daddy,
How do I say Happy Birthday to you today?
Am I to shout out, as loud as I can?
Or do I whisper your name, very quietly, ever so low?
For to know you, is to love you and to feel you ever close is to know and feel love....
So I know....that you must be, always close to me,
Never far from us, for if you were......
The love we have for you, those embers that burn for you,
That keep us forever yearning for you,
Somehow could ease the pain......
But NO, nothing' can ease that pain!
The pain we still feel, the day we lost the Greatest Man who ever lived!!!
So today and EVERY day, I celebrate you father.
Happy Birthday to the greatest man I've ever known!
Thank you for loving my Momma,
Thank you for loving your kids,
Thank you for being my daddy!
Forever & Ever, Amen!
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Modesto, California
April 09, 2007
Happy Birthday Dad. This morning I closed my eyes and I felt your arms around me hugging me. I got to hear your voice yesterday I am so grateful you left our Debbie so many voice messages. I was afraid I would forget your voice now I won’t.
I tell myself all the time that there is a reason for everything. With that being said I know you are with Mom and Johnny and you have no more pain.
I am with much greedy feelings today wanting you to be with me and inside my heart I try to reason with the fact that you will be with each of your children today.
I am still feeling your arms around me dad. Thank you. I miss you so much only those who have lost a parent know this feeling.
Please I am begging you dad come to me show me there is a heaven. Please.
With love and your arms around me, I love you always dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 08, 2007
"Happy Easter"
to my family who now lives in heaven. You are all so deeply missed. Life is full of challenges, I must say this is one challenge that has beaten me. You are so missed, I yearn for you. I ache for you, I hurt for you. Daddy, please, do what you said you would do, only if you could. Please help me to believe. How am I ever to know???
Eternal love for ever and ever AMEN
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 05, 2007
MY DADDY
HE WAS SO SPECIAL,
HE WAS SO RARE,
IF ANYONE NEEDED HELP,
HE WAS ALWAYS THERE,
HE WAS SO PATIENT,
HE WAS SO SMART,
AND HE LOVED EVERYONE
WITH ALL HIS HEART.
HE WAS SO GENTLE,
HE WAS SO WISE,
I OFTEN THOUGHT,
HE WAS AN ANGEL IN DISQUISE.
HE WAS MY DADDY,
AND I WAS PROUD,
AND I KNOW HE LIVES ON,
BEHIND THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CLOUD.
WRITTEN WITH MUCH LOVE,
~
ROXANNE BAYLOR,
BYRDSTOWN, Tennessee
April 05, 2007
Oh Dad...so many images come to mind
whenever I speak your name;
It seems without you in my life
things have never been the same.
What happened to those lazy days
when I was just a child;
When my life was consumed in you
in your love, and in your smile.
What happened to all those times
when I always looked to you;
No matter what happened in my life
you could make my gray skies blue.
Dad, some days I hear your voice
and turn to see your face;
Yet in my turning...it seems
the sound has been erased.
Dad, who will I turn to for answers
when life does not make sense;
Who will be there to hold me close
when the pieces just don't fit.
Oh, Dad, if I could turn back time
and once more hear your voice;
I'd tell you that out of all the dads
you would still be my choice.
Please always know I love you
and no one can take your place;
Years may come and go
but your memory will never be erased.
Today, Jesus, as You are listening
in your home above;
Would you go and find my dad
and give him all my love.
Happy 76th Daddy. With so much love I miss you so deeply.
P.S. The snails are back dad!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 31, 2007
I love you so deeply. Time is flying by, you are so missed. I yearn to see your faces, to hear your voices, to feel your arms around me. It does not get easier as they all say, it gets harder and harder for me. Please come visit me in my dreams, let me see you and feel you.
Eternal Love
~
daddy’s girl,
Belmont, California
March 08, 2007
"50" years ago today I was born. How very special we have been our entire life. 50 years and it does not seem like it. I know you mom and dad is with ME on this day and Johnny I am sure you are with me - we are going to party!
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't miss you or want to call you or email or try to put a quick one over you Dad. You always knew everything. Thank you for loving one another enough to bring us into your lives. I can feel both of you with me all day. I love you all.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 08, 2007
Thank you for creating the most wonderful Mother a son could have....I ask for nothing but your blessing on her 50th Birthday. You have created such a wonderful family. I will always remember all the good times
~
Michael Chamberlain,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 26, 2007
I just want you to know I tell everyone everyday my parents made me who I am and every one everyday are saddened that they didn’t have great parents like I did. Thank you both as you walk with me every day.
~
David Lewis,
A.C., California
February 22, 2007
Well, your Children’s lives sure are changing. Who would have ever thought Vicky would be where she is today. She is living; she so deserves this happiness and attention. I know you must be so proud, and your younger son David, Mom I know you are smiling from ear to ear, we are all so happy for him. You knew all along, well he is finally really happy; he has his kids and is dating. He deserves this. Your twins are so beautiful and are now turning 50, they look so young (they take after you mom) Roxanne is hanging in there, don't hear too much from her these days, I know she has her hands full, please watch over her. Then there is Lori, she will be ok, she just needs to find it within herself once again and she will be just fine. As for me, well dad and mom, I miss you both more than I can even begin to say. Life will never be the same. I have so much to share with you; I would give anything to pick up that darn phone and talk to you and hear your encouragement and your words of wisdom. But that is not going to happen. I pray for you all the time, I pray that you are safe and warm and pain free. Please continue to watch over your children, you were always there for us and now no more.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 18, 2007
I love you so very, very much
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 14, 2007
Oh Momma,
Did you see it, were there with me last night? I did it. I allowed Elvis to put your favorite color scarf (lavender)around my neck while singing "the wonder of you" I looked up at him and said "this is all for you momma". I love you mom, so many beautiful memories came back to me last night. Happy tears! I see you and I sitting at our first show together, I can't remember Elvis at that show, I was blown away by you, you were such a vibrant woman when you went to see your idol.
Oh momma, thank you for so many wonderful memories that I will cherish until the day I join you
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 04, 2007
As I enter this entry into this loving tribute it is entered to ask for as many angels as possible to comfort our Debbie. Dad I know Debbie is the last one you ever would want to suffer anything. She has the biggest heart in this family, she has done nothing but take care of everyone. It is now time, although she will not ask for it, for us to do something for her. She is under an immense amount of stress and I pray please send angels to be with our Debbie to help her cross the road that is before her.
Please I pray endlessly.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 29, 2006
It is about that time...another year has passed us all by. As much as we all try it is not the same. But we fight with everything to keep the Christmas spirit that you both instilled into all your kids alive. We miss you and yes I did the calendars for this year. It is a calendar done in honor of you...Johnny. I still cannot believe you have been gone for 10 years now. I think if you could have you would have come to one of us by now. Thank you all for so many wonderful memories that I grasp with all my soul to never forget.
Until we meet and join together...You’re Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 24, 2006
A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO MY HERO DADDY AND MY ANGEL MOMMA.
I miss you so very much. I try so hard to make the best of Christmas each year, but it's not the same and it never will be.
I have so much to be grateful for, I am blessed to have all of my sisters and my brother around me at all times, I am blessed with my health (thank you mom!) I am blessed with my marriage and my career, I am blessed to have had you in in my life for 40 years, but it is not enough, I am lost without you, my heart aches and yearns for you day after day after day. When does it get easier? Some say it does, I don't think so.
My life has changed, I can't just pick up that phone and call you like I did several times a day, I can't see you smile, or your blue eyes, I can't listen to Elvis to this day, I still smell your cologne each night before I go to bed. I can't see you, I just can't see you anymore!!!
I will be with my family tomorrow and we will laugh and cry and celebrate what you taught us, Thank you for giving me the gift of life and thank you for giving me your beautiful warm loving hearts. Thank you for my wonderful childhood and Christmas.
Christmas is what you made for us, each of us. We all love and treasure Christmas, we all try and make the best of it, Vicky has been so excited that she has not been able to sleep, my brother and I have come to have a beautiful relationship (thank you mom), and then there is our little Lori, Mom we both know what we wanted for her, well she has made me cry such beautiful tears these last few days, we know she has it in her now don't we.I tried to give a little of each of you to my family this year.
So thank you from my heart to yours for everything.
Merry Christmas.
I wish I wish with all my might
I wish I wish for you both tonight
If I had one wish what would it be
If I had one wish it would be for you to come back to me.
A very Merry Christmas to my daddy and my mommy.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 21, 2006
Momma, please help me. Where are you?
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 16, 2006
My beautiful parents of mine.
My mind just won't stop, please make it stop. My heart will not stop aching for you. I miss you both so much.
Christmas~~ you both made this time of year so overly special for us kids, we grew up with so much love and laughter and caring and giving. Each one of us celebrate Christmas to the fullest, oh the memories of taking each of you shopping and watching you each pick out that "special" gift for each other, then watching you watch the other open it up and the expression on their face. as I got older it all was about watching the expressions on faces. It is not the gift it is the giving. You taught me to love with my whole heart and this is what I do. I love with my entire heart and sometimes it is very difficult.
We all struggle; it seems that Christmas is the hardest time for me. I will never forget watching you both open up those beautiful calendars that Carlene makes each and every year, she puts her whole heart into these, and each year she hopes for approval, little does she know that these are the most anticipated gift of them all. I see your faces and your tears and your laughter and your smiles all wrapped up in one while flipping through these pages.
Your children have bonded in a way that I know has made both of you very happy and at peace.
You wrote me a poem back in 1995 that hangs proudly on my wall, I wanted to quote a few lines from it.
OH MY GOD, MY GOOD GOD PRAY, WHERE WOULD WE BE
IF GOD HAD NOT MADE YOU FOR YOUR MOTHER AND ME.
You both have my heart forever and always~~~AMEN
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 29, 2006
My dear sweet beautiful Mother,
I miss you so much, I remember our last day together, I laid with you on your bed and I held you, I cried silently knowing that you would soon leave me, you rubbed my hand and told me that it would be ok. You told me how much you loved me, and how proud you were of me, and how you would always be with me. Momma, that day feels like a lifetime ago, I miss you so much. I know you are now pain free. Thank you for watching over your children, times have been tough mom, I am sure there are rough roads ahead, but mom I know you are so proud of all of your kids, for we truly love, respect and are there for one another, Please share with daddy that his dream did come true.
Eternal love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 22, 2006
Three years ago you joined our Mama and our Johnny. We miss you so deeply now...us kids well we have your pictures and our memories and those are stored deeply inside our hearts, minds and souls.
At this time I pray Dear GOD...please take our dad by the hand keep him joined always with mama and Johnny. Don't leave him alone and keep him warm at night.
We miss you Dad...your memory is our inheritance now. We will try to be strong and be the family you always dreamed of. We love you...dear dad...your daughter...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 17, 2006
6 years ago today I walked around the corner and the look on your face when you saw me is forever embedded in my mind. What a day Mom & Dad. We got to see you both renew your vows of love for one another. Oh how you both are missed so much. The memories I hold are the pictures I have taken and hold dear. I love you both forever.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 30, 2006
Wow what a day we need truly need some angels around us today. My head is just spinning and the worry is out of control and all I can think of is to pray for Angels to be with our Chad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 22, 2006
Hello Mother & Father,
I'm just thinking of you, as I often do, missing you, so very, very much! Ever so thankful for having had you both for those wonderful years that we did. Thank you for always watching over us all, as you do and for giving me the strength to start over again and succeed. I didn’t think I had it in me. I know that you must be at my side during times of strife, for it doesn't seem to faze me, as it would have in the past. I'm not weak any more, like I thought I was. I've come a long way in such a short time, I've shocked myself. I've had the great support of my loving siblings to help along the way. I'm forever indebted to you both for giving us all such blessings and each other. Please come to me somehow, soon. Let me see and feel your beautiful faces and hold your hands again. If only for a little while, I could feel your energy.
I love you Momma and Daddy.
Lori
~
Lori Rangel,
Modesto, California
October 17, 2006
I pray to you to please wrap your arms around our Sandy and help her to stay healthy. I pray you give Vicky & Lori the strength they need to endure what is before them. I pray that you help guide David and keep in safe. I pray that you be with Debbie for she needs you so she can start to heal.
We love you and miss you all so much
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 10, 2006
You truly are "Our Angels" you are so missed and so loved by ALL of your children. Dad you must be so happy with how your children are sticking together and loving one another and being there for each other. This is what you wanted from day one. Mom, your heart was pure and you passed that on to all of us kids. So thank you Parents from the bottom of our hearts.
Eternal Love
Lewis Children
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 29, 2006
Angels among us that is what you are. Thank you for being with your children this week especially. We miss you 'so' much. It has been too long now yet we still do not want the acceptance.
Please keep your arms around us. We love you and miss you.
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
September 28, 2006
Thank you Mom and Dad, Thank you so much!
These kids love their dad so much and are so very happy now! So thank you so much
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 26, 2006
Dad & Mom,
PLEASE I beg of you please be us this week. We need you so much! You both knew all along and you were right so please help make it all right!
Eternal Love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
September 24, 2006
Dad & Mom & Johnny,
Thank you for showering my dreams last night of all three of you, I cannot remember you all being with me like that in the last 10 years. Life is so hard at times without you. you are all truly so missed. Your kids are staying the strong family that you so worried about. We all love each other and no matter what happen when one of us needs help we are all there to help out. You both did such a wonderful job in raising us and loving us. In return all we can do is make you proud. P.S. Thank you Johnny for not changing one bit!
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
September 14, 2006
Dad & Mom,
Today my little brother, your son reached out to me for the first time in a long time. He is a fine man, and I thank you both for giving him to me. I will be there for him and he will survive, he is a Lewis. He does not deserve what he is being dealt. Please shadow him and help him through this difficult time in his life. He loves his children more than anything in this world, we all know this. And his children love him just as much. Please don't let anyone hurt him; he is too fine of a man to have to go through anything. Thank you for being my parents and for loving me.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 14, 2006
As I sit here today I think deeply of you and I pray please place your hands over each of us kids and let us know you are by our side especially at our lowest of times.
It is a scary thing to watch the seasons change, the grandkids celebrate birthdays, and just the everyday life ...what I felt would change when you left us it keeps right on going. When we join you will we be remembered at what point in one’s life are we forgotten?
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
September 09, 2006
Oh Momma and Daddy,
I miss you more than anything in this world, I try so hard to stay strong and to just go on. Some days it seems impossible to go on. My heart is so heavy over loosing you. I wish!! Oh how I wish! Life is so stressful. But somehow time goes on and the days pass me by, and the days turn into months and then years.
Where are you?
I need you
I miss you
I LOVE YOU
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 09, 2006
Happy Birthday Grandma. I know you Mom and Dad are with her especially today. I want to share that the memories from you surprising us kids on Kercher St to Gary & I coming down to help you and Grandpa with the VA and cutting his hair and getting you groceries and most of all the fishing trips we all shared. Every time you cast your fishing pole you would always say "dud". It was priceless. I cherish every one of those memories. I'll always love you Grandma happy 89th birthday,
Your granddaughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 05, 2006
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY,
GOD ONLY KNOWS HOW DEEPLY YOU ARE MISSED. I FEEL YOU CLOSE TO ME SOMETIMES AND I HOPE YOU ARE PROUD OF HOW STRONG WE ARE ALL TRYING TO BE. I AM TRYING TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE IN GOOD SHAPE. I AM TRYING TO MAKE IT THE WAY YOU WOULD HAVE WANTED TO HAVE IT DECORATED. YOU TOLD ME OFTEN HOW YOU WISHED I COULD DECORATE YOUR HOME. IT IS TAKING ME A LONG TIME MOM, BUT I WILL KEEP TRYING UNTIL IT IS DONE. I KNOW HOW PROUD YOU WERE OF YOUR BEDROOM AND BATHROOM SO I WILL KEEP THEM THAT WAY FOR YOU. EVERY NIGHT I LAY IN YOUR BED AND FEEL YOU CLOSE YOUR ARMS AROUND ME. YOU SUFFERED SO VERY MUCH IN YOUR TIME HERE. I PRAY THAT YOU ARE HAPPY AND SEEING GRANDPA DANCING WITH GRANDMA. I REMEMBER HOW MUCH YOU ENJOYED THAT WHEN YOU WERE YOUNGER.
DID YOU HEAR THE ELVIS MUSIC I PLAYED FOR YOU TODAY? I WANT TO THINK YOU DID. MOM, I MISS YOU SO MUCH. I MISS YOUR SMILES AND YOUR SPECIAL WAY OF COMMUNICATING WITH ME WITHOUT SAYING A WORD. I MISS SITTING UP LATE WITH YOU TO WATCH "LIFETIME." I KEEP A BOX OF YOUR JUJU BEES IN THE DRAWER THAT YOU ALWAYS PLACED THEM IN. I SEE YOU EVERYWHERE HERE. MAYBE THAT IS WHY I FEEL OKAY LIVING ALONE HERE. I FEEL YOU AND DAD AROUND ME. EVERY ROOM, EVERY CHAIR, EVERY DISH, EVERYTHING, MAKES ME THINK OF YOU BOTH. OH HOW I WISH FOR ONE MORE HUG FROM YOU. ONE MORE TIME OF HEARING YOU SAY "I LOVE YOU." ONE MORE TRIP SNEAKING TO McDonalds FOR AN ICE CREAM CONE AND GOOD CONVERSATIONS. I TREASURE THE MANY MEMORIES THAT YOU HAVE LEFT ALL OF US WITH.
UNTIL THAT WONDERFUL DAY WHEN I AM TAKEN TO YOU MOM, I WILL LOVE YOU WITH EVERY BREATH I TAKE.
~
VICTOR---IA
August 04, 2006
Happy Birthday Mom.
So much to say. I know you are with us all every day. You are never more than a heartbeat away.
I love you Mom please hold on to Dad & Johnny. Continue to be our angel.
Happy Birthday, Sent lovingly...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 03, 2006
OH Mamma,
Happy Birthday to my very special precious Mother of mine. Today was very hard for me as you well know. Each birthday has been since you left me. I miss you so much mom, why???? The traditions will carry on forever, as I heard from everyone today. I ache for you mom. I often think of how you would look today, for today you turn 71, I cannot believe it. My heart hurts. HOW GREAT THOU ART MOM. For I am going to love you forever and ever AMEN.
When no one else understands me when everything I do is wrong, you give me hope and inspiration, you give me strength to carry on. That’s the wonder of you!!! Happy Birthday mom, may you feel my lips when I kiss you tonight in my dreams. Please tell dad I love him with all of my heart, give him a big hug mom, will you please do that for me?
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 03, 2006
Dearest Mother,
As I think back over my life, I can't help but remember so very many happy times we have all shared with you over the years. Those years are the "Most Special" years of my life. As well as others in this family, must feel the same way.
Our lives will never be the same without you here to share them with. But I, and we, are forever grateful to you Mamma, for all you have done for us and for all that still "Lives On" in us, for all that you are! Our love will always hold us close to each other.
We will never be alone! Oh, but I miss you so! I love you ever so much Momma, and the pain, well I just can't describe the pain. I thank you for all the patients you always managed to have for me. I'm sorry, I didn’t always listen. I have learned so much since then.
I now have a new start in life and I'm taking it with all my heart. A heart that hurts so much sometimes, for you and a few others. But you always told us that life wasn't always going to be a bowl of cherries. And more importantly, to always be there for one another, we "are" all that is left of you!
Thank you for giving me life. Thank you for giving me so many siblings, such special friends we are. I try to explain to my own daughters how very important it is to stick together and always back one another. I know they will be very close, always.
I love you Mother, have a beautiful birthday today! And Debbie, you too. I have so many thanks to you Debbie, I am beyond words.
Thanks for all of those "Special Angels" you have sent my way. I am forever indebted to you!
Loving Wishes,
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Modesto, California
July 29, 2006
THANK YOU MOM AND DAD FOR WATCHING OVER ALL OF US AND A SPECIAL THANK YOU FOR HELPING LORI TO GET A NEW HOME. A PLACE WHERE SHE CAN BE HAPPY AND RAISE HER GIRLS SAFELY. WE WILL ALL HELP HER TO COME BACK TO THE "LORI" SHE ONCE WAS, BUT EVEN STRONGER.
~
VICTORIA LEWIS,
MODESTO, California
July 27, 2006
Thank you Mom and Dad, thank you so much, thank you for hearing me and thank you for your help.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 17, 2006
Just to see you, hear you, feel you, hold you One more time.....
What is real ~ what isn't? What do I 'want’ to accept, what I can't! These are my words to you on this day
A day where I shouldn't be sad I should celebrate you! it is hard no matter what they say. I miss you so much and a huge part of me wants to 'make believe' you are no doubt by each of your children's side. I am so sorry mom that your life was cut so short ~~ it is so unfair! We all ask why? And we will do so for all our years. I love you Mom forever more. For now I choose to go back to my 'make believe' world when you were still with us.
Dancing to Elvis, hair in pin curls, brushing your hair till you fell asleep, sneaking a sip of Pepsi (Like how did you know when we took a drink) DQ and the mustard dogs. Popcorn and Hershey bars. The look on your face when I would sneak in the back door to visit you. Frisch's Big Boy! Allergic to the sun, loving your children...waiting for Sandy & me to get home before you went home~~~~Priceless!
So many memories Mom I love you! I will try to not be sad today especially but should tears drop from these eyes it will be from the shear loneliness of my life without you!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 16, 2006
Hello to Heaven Mom,
As you know your three youngest girls went to an Elvis impersonator concert today, This guy was so much like the "real" Elvis, it brought back so many memories, memories that you and I shared, memories that will be forever beaded in my heart and mind. Memories of a part of you that was so surreal mom, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me these memories. As I sat and watched my sisters in front of me moving and clapping and dancing in their chairs, so much came rushing through me, Then he sang "burning love" I said "ok mom this is for you" but what we were not expecting is for him to sing "how great thou art" you were with us at that moment, we each seen the light around this man as he sang "your" song.
THANK YOU MOMMA, THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH FOR BEING THERE WITH US TODAY"
I had to ask Lori "do you see it" and she did. Later I asked Vicky and she said "yes Debbie, I seen it too" Oh momma, I love you so much and miss you more than ever before. I miss your smile and your touch, I miss your smile and your laughter, I miss your hugs and your comforting words.
I miss all of you,
Please kiss daddy for me, and tell him I am not afraid, and I am waiting.
Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 04, 2006
Why is it getting harder and harder? You are both visiting me in my dreams but they are sad dreams, I pray so hard to be able to wrap my arms around you both and kiss you and tell you that "I love you" I know you both know how much you mean to me. As I know how much I mean to you. Life should not be this hard, oh momma you told me it would be.
so much sadness and so many tears.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 18, 2006
Daddy, where are you? I miss you so deeply; the pain is still so fresh and so real. I try so hard to put the thoughts out of my mind, some days are harder than others. I listen to the song you dedicated to me and cry with each and every word, I remember like it was just yesterday when you handed me the cassette and told me that these words that I was about to hear were your words to me. I could not believe this beautiful song that was given to me by you. You cried and I cried, then we hugged each other and held on to one another, you then whispered into my ear that you loved me so much, and that I would always be "Daddy’s Girl" Thank You Dad My dad! My best friend, my strength, my rock! I love you more than anything in this world. Thank you for loving me so much and teaching me from right and wrong, Thank you for guiding me in the right direction, thank you for giving me the heart that I have to love and cherish with. Thank you for being my dad! Dad today and every day I celebrate you, for if it were not for you there would be no me.
Happy Father’s day daddy
from your little girl
XOXOXOX
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
June 16, 2006
Another day is near that we will be reminded that although you are in our hearts you are not with us to smile and look back into our eyes.
My soul cries out in pain when a loved one is wrenched from my life. Here one day. Gone the next. We sit with empty hearts and empty hands and tears wash down our face, shocked by the finality of it. Death is a part of life. No one is immune to the pain of losing a loved one. Whether it is a mother or father, a brother, sister or friend, a neighbor, co-worker or an old faithful pet. The void is there. The pain and shock are there. The anger. The despair.
We are left behind, struggling to find our way on this huge planet, once death has struck in our homes and in our hearts; the void will always and forever be there.
The mystery is complicated by the fact that the sun still comes up in the morning whether we want it to or not. The birds still sing. The clock still chimes at every hour on the hour. The pages of the calendar still flip by one by one, albeit maybe slower than before. But the old saying still holds true: "Life DOES go on."
How long does the pain last? That depends. How long will I continue to love you? I will always love you and cherish our memories, so no, the pain will never completely go away. But it will fade in time to a tolerable level. One day peace will be restored to my soul.
Dad your life was full of meaning and purpose. It isn’t that your children can’t accept the fact that you are gone it is that we don’t want to accept the fact. By doing that – that would mean we would have to deal with it. For now Dad we will reminisce of all our wonderful memories. The entire father’s day’s that we celebrated with you. We celebrate YOU once again Dad for to us you are the best father ever!
I love you Dad and Happy Father’s Day.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 07, 2006
I love you and miss you with all of my heart!
Amen
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 31, 2006
I send this prayer to you mom & dad & Johnny to give Sandy the strength to get past this trying time in her life. She was just given some news and she needs all of you right now.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 29, 2006
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY DAD & MOM
Another holiday come and gone, seems like that is what happens regardless of everything.
My heart aches for you all the time, life is hard and sad.
I try so hard to be strong, I try to stay upbeat and laugh when inside I am crying. This will never change for me. They say time heals the pain, who said that?
Everyone is doing ok, Vicky is thriving, I got to see David and he looked strong and healthy, Roxanne sent out an email she takes each day at a time, Carlene is your Carlene, such a breath of fresh air. Lori will always need guidance and all of our strength, a little girl so lost. She is strong so please help her find the strength she needs.
I miss and love you so deeply. Always remember that I am here should you want to show me. Help me to have some peace in my heart.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 12, 2006
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY MOM
Another year has come and gone, yet I still long for you, everyone around me is celebrating with their mothers this weekend, I feel so alone, sometimes scared, Oh how I wish!!! I hope that you are finally free momma, you did not deserve what you were dealt.
I love you so deeply & miss you more than I can say
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 11, 2006
I dial the phone and listen as it rings
I want to hear mom's voice
and the joy that it brings
Only it isn’t mom who answers
It is GOD and he asks "What is it I need so much"?
“I need to speak to mom just one more time if you please,
For it’s been too long and I need her touch".
God asks me to hold for a moment
Time slows to this everlasting moment
That seems to last so long
I want to talk to mom I want her to hear my song.
Then a voice comes on the phone but it isn’t mom
It is GOD and he says “Honey you sing to your mom, go ahead sing your song for She is listening every day, every moment to each of her children”.
"Oh God", I say, "I feel like I have been singing for such a long time, and praying and pleading Mom please come home to me. I need you and I miss you And I am calling to say Happy Mother’s Day".
"As children Mom we took our parents for granted. You are the best and if I could hear your voice just one more time…GOD please we have so much to talk about, For Mom....she would be so proud".
The phone…it just stopped ringing. Mom is right by my side.
"Thank you God"
Happy Mother's Day Mom I love you!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 01, 2006
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. Today is 53 years that you said your vows. Your song being "Forever and Ever; Amen" was written for the two of you. I love you Mom & Dad. I wouldn't have wanted any other parents but you. You both are this families 'heroes'. You are where each of us get our strength. You both have raised us all with a deep family love. We just need a little bit more help dealing with losing you both. Is is unfair for us to want you back? Of course it is. We are totally grateful that you both are not in any more pain and are together Forever and Ever; Amen.
Till we meet....Always loving and missing you...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 30, 2006
WOW 53 years! May 1ST
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY DAD AND MOM together forever was "your" saying. it is so true, your love for one another was pure and priceless, you taught me so much, you taught me to love and respect and never to give up. I carry these things with me each day. So much has happened, I wish we could sit down and talk, Mom I would give anything to wash your hair again, and dad to rub your legs and put lotion all over them would be heaven. Oh the memories are always rushing through my mind. Thank goodness for "my" memories.
Ralph and I are strong, we are getting stronger and stronger, dad he misses you and your fatherly image to him. you both always made him feel like a son to you both. Dad, I ended up with my own little Taco dog, I named her Chloe, everyone just loves her she is all white and she would have melted your heart, and yes Pepi loves her. We just finished with our front yard, I wish you could see it, Ralph out did himself again. Work is good, so busy! The world goes on, some days are better than others.
I miss you both so much.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for loving me the way you did, and for giving me my sisters and brothers, thank you for everything. HAPPY 53RD ANNIVERSARY
Eternal love,
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 25, 2006
Just thinking about you all and life. I miss you and none of us were ready for such a tragedy in our lives. We pray that you all are at peace and with one another.
Lovingly, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 18, 2006
Happy Birthday Mommy and Uncle Johnny!
We Love U both very much!
Love,
Panda Poo & Gabby Too!
~
Gabby & Manna Rangel,
Milpitas, California
April 17, 2006
Happy Easter Mom & Dad,
Today was a good day, everything turned out great. I fixed all your favorites and few of mine too. Debbie and Ralph came over for dinner and we all enjoyed ourselves. Just one thing was missing!
All of YOU!!!I love you and I miss you. Thank you Jesus, for saving us all from our sin's
Amen,
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
April 16, 2006
To our brother, Johnny
Whom I've love very much,
If only there was a way,
For us to get in touch
I would ask you why,
Why did you have to die?
Lying in your motor home that night,
With your bible in your hand,
GOD took your home,
For that I will never understand.
You did what the doctors said,
We didn't get a chance to say goodbye,
So for the rest of my life,
I will always ask why,
Why did you have to go?
I will never forget you,
I will love you instead,
For the rest of my life,
You will always be our brother,
And to take your place,
There could never be another.
I dedicate this to our brother; Johnny
It has been 10 years now since you went to heaven. Today your birthday you would turn 50
Oh how I miss you. Sent lovingly, your sister Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 16, 2006
"Happy Easter" dad, mom and big brother. Happy 50th Johnny. WOW! It seems no matter what goes on time does not stop, it keeps going and going. So much has happened, and so much continues to happen. The only peace is that you are all together and looking after us all and you are all laughing and pain free. This is comfort. The pain is so alive and so real. It never goes away it never stops. I can finally talk about you and it brings a smile to my face instead of tears. You all knew you were going to leave this earth, you each made sure that you told all of us that you loved us so much. Dad, I remember your last words to me were that you loved me so much, Mom, you and I were laying on your bed with my arms wrapped around you and you heard me softly crying for you, you were rubbing my hand while trying to comfort me and told me it would all be ok. And Brother John, you called me the night before you went to heaven and left a message on my machine that you were thinking of me and that you loved me. I know each one of you went to heaven knowing how much I loved you as well.
I will NEVER stop missing you or longing for you, but for now I must live my life until we meet again.
Oh yes we will meet again and what a party that will be,
ETERNAL LOVE
Daddy's Girl,
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 16, 2006
Dearest Brother John,
So here's your birthday, yes, it's that time again. Not quite the same tho', No, never again. Once I remember, oh so long ago, you and me, with all the rest, just "Rock'N" the house till the break of dawn. Just kids back then, in such a hurry to grow up. In a world so full around us, wish we would have slowed up. Slowed down, took a break, stopped and really smelled those roses. Take those extra moments so taken for granted along the way to say those things we mean to and need the most. Like, I love you and you look nice and "Hay! That pimple isn't REALLY that big!" You know, just live a little and laugh a lot, but not at each other, of course! Wish we had more of our "yesterdays" to spend together today. But we don't always have a choice about some things, only the desire, want and need to change them.
Happy Birthday Brother, I love you so very much, will never live this day the same.
Always Missing You!
Your Baby Sister,
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
April 15, 2006
I cannot believe it has been 10 years since you left us Johnny. I have not forgotten you. Happy Birthday to you. Today (16th) you would have turned 50. I miss you every day. Love always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 10, 2006
Hi my Bop-Pop!
It's your very favorite baby!
Love,
Gabby
~
Gabrielle Rangel,
Milpitas, California
April 09, 2006
As I sit back closing my eyes my mind drifts off to 'your day' Dad. You are sitting at the table or in your lazy boy knowing that without a doubt each and every one of your children would call you. Well I am calling you and I am saying "Dad I love you as much today as the day I was born. Happy Birthday Dad. I miss you and I cannot wait to see you".
My eyes open...crap I am just going to close my eyes again. I like that memory.
So Happy Birthday to you. This world as we know it is hard to exist without you and mom with us.
We miss you I miss you and I love you!
Your daughter, Carlene # 4 1/2
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 09, 2006
Hello Father,
How you doing? It's been a long time, since I've held you so close in my arms. How's your new life and my Momma? Hope your doing fine. You're just as lovely as you used to be. What I'm trying to say is I love you and I miss you. And yes Daddy, I'm doing OK.
But it's MIDNITE!!! And I miss you!!!I miss you!!! Uh huh!!!
Happy Birthday Daddy. I hope you are having a great day! Maybe fishing with Johnny and your brothers. I'm sure Momma made you something good to eat, maybe her famous Potato Salad. Boy, what I would do to be there? I'd even bate my own hook, with a work-rag of course!!!
I'm forever loving and missing you dearest Father of mine.
Your Baby Girl,
Lori Nadine #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
April 09, 2006
HAPPY 75TH BIRTHDAY DADDY
I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEART
FROM DADDY'S GIRL
~
DADDY'S GIRL,
California
April 09, 2006
(written to the tune of: Hello Darlin')
Hello Daddy,
How you doing? It's been a long time, since I held you so close in my arms. How’s your new life and my Momma? Are you both doing fine? You're just as lovely as you used to be.
What I'm trying to say is I love you and I miss you. And yes Daddy, I'm doing OK.
Now it's Midnight and I miss you!!! I miss you!!! Uh huh!!!
Oh how you are missed!!!
Happy Birthday Daddy! And thank you for being my father. Hope you do something fun on your day. Maybe fishing with Johnny and your brothers and eating Momma's Potato Salad. I'd do anything to be there. I'd even bate my own hook (with a work-rag, of course)!
Forever Loving You,
Your Baby Girl,
Lori #8
April 09, 2006
Happy Birthday Bop-Pop
From Only Me! I love you.
Your Gabby
April 04, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there are no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 24, 2006
Yes Mom & Dad we did have a fantastic vacation in the Bahamas. When Debbie & I seen each other it was the first time we seen each other since you left us Dad to join Mom. We just cried and held each other and hugged. Then we made memories. I did walk right into a glass door; almost knocked myself out. We drank (lots) and loved the food and the comedy shows. We had a blast. We are already planning our next vacation and although we can no longer share all the details with you in person somehow I feel you both are always looking upon your children and you see everything.
I love you and missing you desperately have become a daily incident.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 22, 2006
Dad & Mom,
Another trip has come and gone, Carlene and I had so much fun in the Bahamas, we laughed so hard our tummies ached, (Carlene ran into a closed door) we danced together, we cried together and most of all we loved being with each other. I often thought of how much you would love to hear our stories, your big blue eyes so full of questions and how generally happy you were for us. I miss running home to tell you all about it. It just was not the same. I missed Lori and Vicky so much while I was gone. I was so excited to see them and talk with them and tell them all about it.
I will never get over loosing you both; I have eternal love for you always
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
March 15, 2006
Brother John,
Was driving along the coast last night with my girls, going down Hwy.#1 thru Pacifica, your old stomping grounds, thoughts of you flooded my mind. Ended up driving up Manor Drive to Lewis' Lane! I remember those good 'old days! I miss U Bro.
Love, Lor-E-Gee
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
March 12, 2006
Just sitting here thinking about you both and missing you extra much today. I wish you were here to see my girls. Amanda is becoming a young lady before my eyes and our little Gabby would just blow your minds. I have been truly blessed with my beautiful little girls. I live my life for them and their futures. I miss you so very much and will see you someday on the other side.
P.S. Please watch over my Debbie and Weener and bring them back home safely from their vacation in the Bahamas’
Your Daughter,
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
March 08, 2006
Thank you Mom & Dad for my life. 49 years ago today I was one of two surprises. Mom you always told me God gave you & dad a special gift: Twins. I love you both!
Your daughter...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 06, 2006
Dad you were in my dreams last night...please help me to remember what the dream was. You were giving me something and trying to tell me something please help me to remember.
I love you and miss you and your beautiful blue eye and all our emails.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 04, 2006
I MISS YOU SO MUCH IT IS KILLING ME.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
February 22, 2006
Dearest Mom & Dad,
Please continue to watch over us all and lead us in the right directions. Roxanne and Randy need your love, help and guidance the most right now. Please shower them with the strength of your arms and the love in your hearts. Help to send a Miracle their way to help Randy heal more as time goes by and to give Roxanne the courage to continue on. Please help bless Vicki with better health and my Debbie with beautiful smiles. Help the twins keep warm and watch over David as he has teenage woe's going on. Please comfort us on the coldest of nights with your ever loving and warm embracing love. Please help me to continue giving my girls the love and guidance that they so much need. It's a crazy world we live in today. I just wish we dint have to do it without you two by our sides. I love you so very much dear parents on mine.
Always & Forever,
Your Baby, Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
February 16, 2006
Oh Momma,
As you know I just got back from Temecula with Ralph, we had such a wonderful time, As I sat at the slot machines, I allowed my thoughts to travel back to you sitting at that same slot machine right next to me. I saw your small face and that huge smile of yours as you pulled on that handle. I miss you so much mom, my life is empty without you in it. You were always there for me, you always brought me up, you made every day worth going on for me.
When will the pain ever ease up mom? You told me that when Grandma passed on that your world stopped, I did not understand, I do now, you never got over her loss, as I will NEVER get over loosing you.
Please come visit me in my dreams Mommy, I need you.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
February 14, 2006
"Dear Mom"
I wish I could spend this Day with you but I can't, so I am writing a letter instead. I understand so many things now that I didn't understand when I was growing up. I didn't know how hurt you were by some of the things I said and did until I was hurt the same way by my own children.
Until I traveled that road myself, I had no idea how hard you worked, with never a complaint, or the burdens you carried doing the everyday things I took for granted. I didn't know how many times I could have made you happy by just saying, "I love you Mom" - or, "I appreciate what you are trying to do for me" - but I know now because it means the world to hear those words from my own children. It took me all my life to learn what a mother is.
I wish there was some way I could let you know now how much I appreciate your years of sacrifice and unselfishness, your efforts to keep us on the right track, and everything you did to help us children grow up straight and strong.
Thanks Mom, you're the greatest. Happy Valentine's Day Mom.
Signed, Your daughter Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 07, 2006
Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Lord hear our prayers, watch over our Randy, give our sister the strength she will need and bring their family closer together than they have ever been.
Amen.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 06, 2006
Mom and Dad,
Please watch over your oldest daughter, she needs all of your support and strength. No matter what happens we are family and will take care of each other. "Thank you" from the bottom of my heart for raising us kids to do the right thing.
Please help Roxanne, give her the strength to cope with this very tragic situation that has been thrown her way.
eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
California
January 29, 2006
Hi Bop Pop!
My wish came true! I got U for my Grandpa, even if just for a little while! That saves it! And my Grandma gave me Fishy-Clay. Grandma has my heart! I love U and I miss U all the way up in the sky to heaven! I love U and GOD too!
Your Grand-Baby,
Gabby Jonae Rangel
~
Gabby Rangel,
Milpitas, California
January 25, 2006
Another year has fast approached me and still I cannot bring myself to go to Modesto. I just can't! You both know why.
Dad I did not grieve for momma, I had to be strong for you, I could not break because the worst thing I ever seen was you cry, this crushed my heart, my big strong handsome father cry! Unheard of. It is now my turn to cry, but lord knows that I can't. I know when I do that I will never be able to stop. I miss you guys so much I cannot bare it. I am still waiting and will until then eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
January 25, 2006
Boy this is just not easy for us kids. Exactly who are we supposed to turn to when we need advice or direction? Dad you always listened so intently and when you answered you made the world sunny again for me. I miss that, I miss those times.
I just found out some information regarding one of my kids and the first thing I would have done was call you for advice. Instead I am so sick to my stomach. Please help me and my children through this hard time in their life.
I will do my best to be there for both of them but this is not going to be easy. Maybe you can help me help them. Please.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 09, 2006
Saturday night I had a dream of you Mom & Dad. In my dream I was trying and trying to get to you and I kept hearing myself say "Mom's not ready to go yet" Dad was in another room and this looked to be somewhat of a hospital although I am not 100% sure. Then there was a bad storm all the while I am trying to get to you. When I did get to you Mom you were laying there half sitting up like in a bed and it appeared that there was storm debris all over but you were fine. I kept asking you if you were afraid and all you kept saying Mom was that you were not ready to go. I can't and don't want this remembrance of this dream to go away for it's like I got to see you and Dad and I talked to you. Dad kept asking me if you were alright. I am just trying to figure the meaning of this dream.
With all my love always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 08, 2006
Just wanted to remind you that I love you and let you know I'm trying and really hoping for a much more successful and happy year. It's all about love and there just isn't enough of it in this world!
I miss ALL of you so very much!
Your Baby,
#8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
January 01, 2006
Happy New Year Mom and Dad!
Time just keeps passing by, my heart aches for you today as much as it did the day you both left me.
My life will always have emptiness without you here. I miss you more than words can express, I long to hear your voice and for you to tell me; it all will be ok. This year was very enduring for me, some things were thrown my way that I did not think I could handle, but I did. I was scared and cold and hungry. My fears took me to a higher level than ever before. I am still that frighten little girl you left behind, however I am a "Lewis" and I am a fighter, this you know!
Why you guys? WHY! So many questions, with no answers.
Out of everyone, I thought I would be the one, but as of today NOTHING!
I will not give up on hope and faith, for this is all I have now.
Eternal love for you
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
January 01, 2006
WHAT CAN I SAY...THIS YEAR HAS JUST ENDED AND A BRAND NEW ONE LIES AHEAD. WHAT WILL THIS NEW YEAR BRING TO ALL OF US? I KNOW YOU WILL BE HERE WATCHING OVER US ALL. HELPING US TO CONTINUE TO LOVE EACH OTHER AND BE STRONG FOR ONE ANOTHER. YOU GAVE US ALL OUR OWN INDIVIDUAL PERSONALITIES AND HEARTS, MOM AND DAD. PLEASE FOLLOW US THROUGH THIS YEARS UPS AND DOWNS. HELP US OVER THE HARD TIMES AND JOIN US DURING THE HAPPY, LOVING AND SPECIAL TIMES. WE CARRY YOU WITHIN OUR HEARTS AND WILL LOVE YOU THROUGH ETERNITY. I THANK YOU FOR HELPING US MAKE IT THROUGH ANOTHER CHRISTMAS WITHOUT YOU BOTH HERE. I HAVE GREAT PLANS FOR THIS COMING YEAR. MY GOALS WILL BE DIFFICULT TO ACHIEVE BUT IF YOU ARE WITH ME I KNOW I WILL BE ABLE TO DO THIS. I THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE I HAVE RECEIVED FROM ALL MY SIBLINGS. AND I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIONSHIP THAT YOU HAVE SENT TO ME WHEN I NEEDED IT MOST. THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME MY THREE YOUNGER SIBLINGS THAT ARE ALWAYS NEARBY, TAKING CARE OF ME AND MY EMOTIONS. I WILL TRY TO SHED LESS TEARS THIS YEAR AND I WILL BE AS GOOD AS I CAN UNTIL I COME HOME TO YOU AND JOHNNY.
~
VICTORIA GUADAMUZ/LEWIS,
MODESTO, California
December 30, 2005
This morning as I got off the bus I was walking the pathway to our office and I am looking at how beautiful the trees look with all the freshly fallen snow. I notice how 'white' everything is. I then bend down and pick up a huge handful of snow in my gloved hand and it seemed to form a perfect snowball. I quietly said "Here's one for you Mom & Dad" and I threw it clear across the courtyard.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 30, 2005
Well it is the end of another year Mom & Dad. Travis leaves back to the ship on Jan 1st. It was so nice to see him and spend time with him. Mom he is still a little hottie. This year has been pretty fulfilling for me with the kids, and my wonderful grandchildren and the remodeling and of course my family. It has its voids as well. Those voids will always be with me. I am very grateful that I spent as much time coming out there and calling and emailing you both as I did. I will always wish I did more. I have some of the most wonderful memories, isn't that what it is all about? I miss you both so much. And Johnny...I have not forgotten you...you and I had that special connection and so many wild times. Memories again!
Here's to you always with all my love, your daughter and sister...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 27, 2005
MERRY CHRISTMAS MOM AND DAD AND JOHNNY.
CHRISTMAS CAME AND WENT, IT WAS NOT THE SAME I LOOKED AT VICKY AND LORI AND WE JUST DIDN'T DARE GO THERE. WE EACH KNEW IF WE SAID A WORD WE WOULD ALL LOOSE IT. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR GIVING ME SUCH LOVING SISTERS, WE HAVE GROWN SO CLOSE TO ONE ANOTHER. PLEASE, I BEG OF YOU, PLEASE, PLEASE HELP US TO BE HEALTHY AND TO GUIDE US THROUGH THIS NEXT YEAR,
ETERNAL LOVE
XOXOXO
~
Daddy's Girl,
California
December 25, 2005
MERRY CHRISTMAS GRANDMA AND GRANDPA. I MISS YOU AN AFULL LOT. TODAY WE'RE LEAVING FOR DISNEYLAND! PATCHES & PETE (MY CATS) OPENED THEIR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS ALREADY. PATCHES PLAYED W/THEIR TOY ALREADY AND LOVED IT. IT WAS SOOOOOOOOOO CUTE! PETE HASN'T PLAYED W/IT YET THOUGH, THAT SEEMS KIND OF THE OPOSIT WAY AROUND FOR HOW THEY USUALLY ARE! I'M GONNA GO NOW BYE. I LOVE YOU BOTH VERY MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
~
Mandy Rangel,
Milpitas, California
December 23, 2005
Merry Christmas Mom & Dad & Johnny. My fondest memories take me back to Kercher Street. You always told me Dad "You haven't got nothing if you don't got memories." You also always said the same thing to me about 'Dreams'. I live by that each and every day.
Debbie already peaked at the calendar you know and she says you both would have loved it. I tried.
Life is an odd thing you know. That why it is so important to have 'purpose' in between birth and death.
We are all doing the best we can and we all love one another. Sure we will have our differences from time to time but that is why we are our own individuals. And you know me 'the Rebel'. Every family has one.
Dad on Kercher I so remember how you made tracks in the snow and sleigh marks on the roof, man you had us kids drawn in so deep.
I am glad I was able to share your last Christmas with you.
Travis came home on leave Mom he got in from Pearl today safely. I will always remember how you admired and loved him and also how you nicknamed him "Hottie".
I love you and miss you all so much.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 23, 2005
I believe too!
Thank you for being the best Santa there ever was.
Oh how I miss you!
~
Daddy's Girl
December 21, 2005
Who said there was NO SANTA??? Dad, I still BELIEVE!!!
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
December 21, 2005
Dad...We all just found out that your brother has joined you & mom on May 16th. Some of us never met Uncle Emmett but I was lucky in meeting him. He seemed like such a fun guy and so happy. I am sure he has been visiting you & mom.
Thank you Dad for giving each one of us kids the vision of what Christmas is all about. I still remember so well just how devastated I was when I found out there was no real Santa.
Please mom & dad touch our lives during this holiday season. Merry Christmas and I love you both.
Your daughter, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 19, 2005
Saturday night I had a dream...you were both in my dream. Oh I cannot say how wonderful you both looked and how happy I was to see you. I kept asking you both so many questions but neither one of you would answer in fact neither one of you talked throughout my entire dream. That part puzzles me I can only guess that you both intend for me to find my own answers.
Sunday morning I dint want to get out of bed. I kept trying to fall back to sleep so I could spend as much time as possible with you both.
Mom & Dad when you have time again can you visit me again I promise I won’t ask any questions but should you want to say something please do.
I sent the 2006 calendars out Mom & Dad. You both would have loved this calendar. You would have laughed so hard. Please keep me inspired to continue this legacy. Please.
With all my love, your daughter...Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 11, 2005
MOM AND DAD,
I MISS YOU BOTH SO VERY MUCH. I WALK THROUGH THESE ROOMS OF YOUR HOUSE AND THINK OF YOU. I SEE YOU SITTING IN YOUR FAVORITE CHAIRS, DOING WHATEVER TASK IS AT HAND. AS I WORK ON THINGS WITH MY PAIN FILLED HANDS, I THINK OF HOW YOUR HANDS FELT (FULL OF ARTHRITIS) AND HOW YOU NEVER COMPLAINED. AS I WALK OR STAND I FEEL THE PAIN AND BURNING IN MY FEET AND I REMEMBER HOW MUCH WORSE YOUR FEET HURT, STILL YOU NEVER COMPLAINED. I SIT HERE ALONE AND LONELY, FULLY ANTISIPATING A CALL FROM A LOVED ONE AND KNOW YOUR YEARNING TO HEAR FROM EACH OF THEM ALSO. I WATCH A FAVORITE GAME OR SHOW ON TV AND VISUALIZE YOU IN THE CHAIR NEXT TO BE, I GLANCE YOUR WAY AND SEE THE EVER PRESENT SMILE THAT ALWAYS COMFORTED ME AND LET ME KNOW EVERYTHING WOULD BE OKAY. WHEN I LOOK INTO THE EYES OF MY SISTERS AND BROTHER, I SEE THE LOVE AND ANGUISH OF THE LOSS THEY ARE FEELING FOR YOU... I FEEL THE SAME WAY. I HEAR A QUOTE OR A SONG AND IMAGINE YOUR REACTIONS, THE WAY YOU MOVED, THE WORDS EVOKED, THE FAVORITE SAYINGS, THE SOUND OF YOUR VOICE, THE SOUND OF YOUR LAUGHTER. WHEN I AM FEELING LOW I CLOSE MY EYES AND FEEL YOUR ARMS AROUND ME HUGGING ME, OR YOUR HAND STRETCHED OUT TO ENFOLD MINE. THE STRENGTH YOU GAVE ME TO GO ON WHEN MY BODY AND SPIRIT WERE FAR FROM WELL. I DRAW ON YOUR LOVE TO HELP ME MAKE IT THROUGH THOSE VERY HARD DAYS AND NIGHTS. I WANT TO TELL YOU HOW VERY MUCH I MISS YOU AND HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU. BUT MOST OF ALL I WANT YOU TO KNOW HOW RICH I AM BECAUSE OF THE LOVE IN YOUR HEARTS THAT EXTENDED OUR FAMILY TO TEN. MY SISTERS AND BROTHER HAVE BEEN AT MY SIDE TO HELP ME TO GO ON LIVING AND FEELING THE LOVE YOU INSTILLED IN EACH ONE OF US. WE ALL HAVE OUR OWN MISGIVINGS BUT WE ARE ALL TRYING TO STICK TOGETHER AND BE THE "FAMILY" YOU ALWAYS WANTED. "ALWAYS AND FOREVER" IS WHAT WE ALL HAVE BASED OUR LIVES ON. THANK YOU MOM. THANK YOU DAD.
~
VICTORIA GUADAMUZ/LEWIS,
MODESTO, California
December 09, 2005
The end of 2005 is right upon us. Some may tend to think that to enter something into this memory book is not necessary but I say this is a great way to share thoughts and feelings about this and that when you just feel you need to say something.
Us kids still and always will have our little problems...that is life. This is no reflection of our parents. I for one have lost that 'Christmas Happy' feeling. When we lost you Mom & Dad we (us kids) lost a lot. Time...just is not something I can grasp and hold in the palm of my hand. You are both missed so badly.
Please place your hands over Lori...for she has some very serious decisions to make. Place them over David so that he will embrace me back into his life. Place them over Debbie so that her stress will be no more. Place them over Vicky to give her the daily strength she needs. As far as Sandy & I well even though we are in another state once you are done blessing the family maybe you can shoot over this way and bless us as well.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 26, 2005
Oh Momma,
Yesterday I was so emotional for you, I wished you could have wrapped your arms around me and let me hear those three little words out of your mouth. I took Amanda to see Santa and she asked him to have you come visit her and her mom, this is a little girl whose room is all decorated of you on every wall. Her heart is as big as yours. She will never forget you mom, you had a MAJOR impact on her short little life. We all miss you mom so much, thanksgiving came and went, and soon Christmas will do the same. Life will never be the same without you.
~
Debbie Schletter,
California
November 23, 2005
When I have no one to turn to
And I am feeling kind of low,
When there is no one to talk to
And nowhere I want to go,
I will search deep within myself
It is the love inside my heart
That lets me know dad that you and Mom are there
A smile then appears upon my face
And the sun begins to shine.
I hear your voice, so soft and sweet
Saying, 'Carlene everything will be just fine'
I may feel that I am alone
But I am never by myself at all.
Dad whenever I need you near
All I have to do is call.
You are loved as much today in spirit as you were loved in life.
I miss you so badly Dad. I love you with all my heart.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 23, 2005
DAD,
WHAT CAN I SAY? I SIT HERE EVERY DAY IN WHAT USED TO BE YOUR BEDROOM. I CLOSE MY EYES AND PICTURE YOU HERE. I SIT IN YOUR CHAIR AND REMEMBER YOU SITTING WITH ME AND WATCHING "OUR" SHOWS. I MISS OUR CONVERSATIONS. I WILL ALWAYS TREASURE THE SPECIAL TIME WE HAD WITH EACH OTHER AND THE CLOSNESS THAT WE SHARED. I AM SO HAPPY THAT MOM ASKED ME TO TAKE CARE OF YOU AND THAT EVERYTHING I DID FOR YOU OR WITH YOU WAS DONE WITH PURE LOVE. ALL THE THINGS THAT HAD KEPT US STRANGERS FOR SO LONG, JUST DISAPEARED AND NO LONGER TOUCHED OUR LIVES. I THANK YOU DAD FOR ALL THE THINGS YOU TOOK THE TIME TO TEACH ME AND TO HELP ME TO LEARN. THANK YOU FOR TREATING ME LIKE AN EQUAL AND FOR TRUSTING IN MY JUDGEMENT. I THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME PEPI. HE HAS BEEN A GREAT COMFORT TO ME AND I TRY TO LOVE HIM AS MUCH AS YOU DID. IT HAS BEEN TWO YEARS SINCE MOMMA CALLED YOU TO HER. IT FEELS LIKE YESTERDAY AND IT ALSO FEELS LIKE FOREVER. SO DADDY PLEASE HOLD ONTO OUR JOHNNY AND DANCE WITH OUR MOMMY UNTIL WE CAN ALL BE TOGETHER WITH YOU AGAIN.
~
VICTORIA GUADAMUZ,
MODESTO, California
November 22, 2005
I miss you and love you with all of my heart. I cannot believe it has been two years dad.
Two years dad, where are you?
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 21, 2005
DAD, YOU ARE MY HERO
When I was little,
you held me in your arms,
and always kept me safe,
from every day's passing harm.
When I look up into your deep blue eyes,
and feel your sweet embrace,
I look up to the sky above,
and thank the Lord, for the angel
he sent down to earth,
is now, and will forever be
my wonderful and caring dad.
Now that I am older,
my life is changing more every day,
but I still love you,
for you are my hero,
and that will never change.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 16, 2005
Guess I am more like you Mom than I realized. I thought I could but I can't, and you know what? That is alright I know it is because of anyone you and Dad both know and understand.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 15, 2005
I do not know where to begin here, so much inside that needs to come out. Thank you for being with me. So much happened, you both know how scared I was. I am a different person now. I learned life is so precious, we will all be ok now. You can look down and smile and know in your hearts that you did well. Dad, I was lying in bed last night and said "oh my god it's been almost two years since I last seen your face, or touched your hand, or kissed your cheek, two years since I heard your voice, seen your smile, or heard your laughter, two very long years since I looked into those beautiful blue eyes of yours and told you how much I love you. Two years!!! I miss you so much. I love you forever and a day.
I hope you are still dancing with mom. I know you are at peace now.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
November 11, 2005
Mom & Dad I did not think I could do this but will give it a try. The person to thank is Debbie. For if she is able to do it; I certainly can to, especially being the older sister and all. I know you two will bless both of us. Dad I believe this is what you wanted all along.
Mom there is so much 'unknown' and maybe over the weeks and months we can rebuild what was lost. I ask that you stand by Debbie & me as we step carefully towards our journey. Guide us and show us the way.
I love you both; you are missed so badly it is so hard to accept.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 07, 2005
You know it goes to show how heavy you are on my mind Dad, I know you joined our Mamma on the 23rd and that is what I meant to say in my message directly below but I happened to look at my calendar and seen that on the 17th you and Mom renewed your vows. I was blessed in having the opportunity of being there to celebrate your happy event with you. I still ask on the 23rd of this month that all light a candle in your memory. Let us focus on the many happy times of your life and not allow sadness in. I love you Dad and I miss you terribly.
Your Only Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 04, 2005
It will soon be 2 years Dad that you joined our Mama. I have many words that are deep that I want to say...you are the only one in our family that understood. Remember Dad we would talk for hours about such things that nobody would think to talk about. I loved that about you. So smart you knew something about everything.
I ask each family member to choose a time (since we are all in different time zones) and light a candle in Dad's memory on the 17th. by your loving daughter Carlene
I think I always took for granted, what I thought I'd never lose. Because I never thought it would happen, until I heard the dreaded news. They say you were chosen for his garden, His preciously handpicked bouquet. So us kids. We are supposed to believe that "God really needed him, that’s why he couldn't stay." Saying goodbye is never easy,
It's the hardest thing to do. But what hurts me even more Is that I did not have the chance to say it to you. So today, Jesus, as you are listening in your home above; would you go and find my dad, And give him all my love!
Dad I pray help us accept the unacceptable.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 28, 2005
OMG Debbie is home. After speaking with her this morning I know she angels watching over her. She is such a loving person with a purity within herself that just does not exist these days. If she makes a promise she follows through without question. She made a pact and she arrived home safely, Mom & Dad please I pray to you let her know right away if she has to follow through with this pact. I do not know if I will be able to follow but this isn't about me please show her a sign or something I beg please let her know. Amen.
Love always, I will wait to see
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 27, 2005
Thank you for watching over my Debbie and bringing her back home to us! Although bruised and scarred from such devastation, my Debbie is alive! We will help her thru this Mom and Dad, I know it will take some time, but she will be alright, she is strong, like you Dad. Thank you for watching over her!
Amen,
Lori, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
October 27, 2005
I have to say "Thank You" to our 3 special Angels, thank you with all my heart. You watched over Debbie & Ralph and they are at this moment on a plane on their way home. Please comfort her as much as you can Dad she is still going to need a lot of comfort for this was so traumatizing for her.
Welcome Home Debbie we all love you! If I could have traded places with you I would have in a second. I am so sorry that you had to endure what you did!
Your Only Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 26, 2005
"When someone you love becomes a memory ~ the memory becomes a treasure"
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 25, 2005
THANK YOU, OUR THREE ANGELS FOR WATCHING OVER DEBBIE AND RALPH. WE KNOW HOW MUCH SHE ESPECIALLY NEEDED YOU DAD. LORI AND I WILL BE AT THE AIR PORT ON THURSDAY EVENING TO WELCOME HER BACK HOME. WE WILL TAKE GOOD CARE OF HER.
~
VICTORIA GUADAMUZ,
MODESTO, California
October 25, 2005
Thank you Grandpa & Grandma & Jonny for looking out for Debbie and Ralph. God Bless you.
~
Michael Chamberlain,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 24, 2005
I prayed for angels to keep our Debbie safe. Thank you Mom, Dad & Johnny. I know you were all there with her.
How tragic to go through something like this, although I am thrilled beyond words that Debbie & Ralph are safe I just wish I could be at the airport to welcome them when they do get home and just hold her.
"Angels" you were over her.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 22, 2005
Please comfort & embrace our Debbie and Ralph, as they endure the terrible catastrophe in Cancun, Mexico of hurricane Wilma. Please help bring her back to us safe and sound! I cannot do life without her, she is my rock! We all love and need her so much! She is the only one holding us together and right now she needs us so! Please GOD! Hear our prayers and watch over my sister and bring her home safely to me! Mom and Dad, please help comfort her, if it is at all possible! Give her the strength she needs right now to make it back home.
It is time to pray again!
Always Loving You,
Lori, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Milpitas, California
October 21, 2005
We have all been sitting here with so much worry over our Debbie. We don’t know if she evacuated or if they chose to stay at the Hotel. This is just so bad. Cancun is feeling the effects of Hurricane Wilma and it has not reached them yet. The destruction will be massive. I sent in a prayer yesterday for our family of 3 angels to be with Debbie. I plead please Mom Dad Johnny keep Debbie safe from any harm and let her not be scared. Let us hear from her as soon as she is able to. Dad Debbie needs you right now please hear her prayers. This I pray with all my heart for our entire family.
Amen.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 20, 2005
If ever we need angels we need them right now. Please help us to ensure Debbie gets home safe. She needs your hands around her right now to save her from the Hurricane that is headed towards them. Please Mom & Dad & Johnny reach out and keep her safe.
Amen.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 16, 2005
We all know that life is hard. We have all had our share of ups and downs. Our lives as we know it has not been the same since we lost you three. I wonder all the time I there really is a heaven. I want to believe there is. Can you help with that? I love you and I miss you terribly.
Always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 14, 2005
Hello,
Well I am heading off to Cancun for a week of relaxation and some time away to do a lot of thinking. My mind has been playing tricks on me lately. God how I wish I could pick up that phone and have you tell me "everything will be ok Debbie" I try to be strong, for everyone around me. I miss you so much, my heart will never stop hurting over you.
I love you with every breath that I take.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
October 03, 2005
My Dearest Daddy,
Oh how I wish for one more conversation with you. I miss you so much dad. So much has happened since you went to sleep. I remember the last day I spent with you, I will never forget those baby blue eyes of yours looking at me and telling me that you loved me, I knew how much you loved me dad, no doubt about that at all in my heart. I miss our talks and I miss sitting with you and trying to surprise you, when I never could, you would always figure it out. I miss going places and calling you and telling you all about them. I miss so much of you. I miss your emails dad, I miss your daily phone calls, I miss your laughter and your smile. I have so many wonderful memories that I will carry with me forever.
Thank you for being my dad.
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
California
September 23, 2005
I love you so deeply, my heart hurts so bad over loosing you. Vicky is striving, and Lori is coming along just fine, she will be just fine. Amanda would just fill your heart with love and sunshine and hope for the future, Gabrielle would just melt your hearts away. She is so precious. Carlene is the same happy go lucky woman, Thank you for giving me them as my family. AS for me, I am getting stronger, you would be so proud of me, I can drive over a bridge by myself now, I went and had my wisdom teeth pulled (With Vicky holding my hand). Ralph is doing good, we just bought a new building, dad you would be so proud of him, he is so successful, and loves me to pieces. Mom, Lori has huge tomatoes plants in her back yard and I thought of how much you loved them. Life is hard, but we go on until it ends.
Eternal Love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
September 22, 2005
A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like a loving family, Amen... But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of family love you've granted to me.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
September 17, 2005
Thank you for holding my hand dad, I did it.
I love you and miss you so deeply
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
September 16, 2005
Dad we ask you today to hold on to your children's hands as we need you.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 31, 2005
Parents
A young woman was sitting on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking
iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As they talked about life, about
marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of
adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and
turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.
"Don't forget your parents," she advised, swirling the tea leaves to
the bottom of her glass. "They'll be more important as you get older. No
matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the
children you'll have, you are still going to need your parents.
Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them. And
remember that “parents" are not only your friends, but your hero your
confidant, and your life line.." 'What a funny piece of advice,' the young woman thought. 'Haven't I
just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a
married woman, for goodness sake, a grownup, not a young girl who needs
Parents! Surely my husband and the family we'll start will be all I
need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her Mother; she kept in contact with her parents and
visited them more each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she
gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking
about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a
child, parents are the mainstays of her life. After 47 years of living
in this world, here is what I've learned:
Times passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Love waxes and wanes.
Hearts break.
Careers end.
Jobs come and go.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Men don't call when they say they will.
BUT parents are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are
between you. A parent is never farther away than needing them can
reach. When you have to walk that lonesome valley, and you have to walk it
for yourself, your parents will be on the valley's rim, cheering you
on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and
waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even
break the rules and walk beside you. Or come in and carry you out. The world
wouldn't be the same without them, and neither would I.
When I began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the
incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we
would need each other. Every day, we need each other still.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 23, 2005
DADDY WHERE ARE YOU?
~
Daddy's Girl
August 12, 2005
I love you so much.
I miss you so much.
I wish I could turn back time and hug you and kiss you just one more time.
Eternal Love
~
Debbie Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
August 09, 2005
Mom & Dad I know it was so touch on you to have 7 children and then to lose Johnny the way we did had to of been the most unbearable thing a parent can through. But you still have 6 children who love you and miss you so much.
I love you always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 04, 2005
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMMA,
I CAN NOT BELIEVE THAT TODAY YOU TURN 70. I KNOW YOU LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL AND YOU ARE SO HAPPY.
I HAD SO MANY FRIENDS AND MY FAMILY'S SUPPORT YESTERDAY, WHICH WAS VERY HARD FOR ME. I CRIED FOR YOU SO HARD YESTERDAY. SOMEHOW I THINK YOU WERE WITH ME THOUGH.
VICKY GOT THE NEWS SHE HAS SO DESPERATLY NEEDED TO HEAR. SHE WILL SURVIVE AS WE ALL WILL, WE ARE STRONG AND WE ARE LEWIS'S.
AMANDA TALKS ABOUT YOU SO MUCH MOM, SHE WRITES HER SCHOOL STORIES ABOUT YOU AND TALKS ABOUT THINGS THAT BLOW ME AWAY THAT SHE REMEMBERS ABOUT YOU. YOU ARE SO SPECIAL TO HER TO LITTLE HEART.
I KNOW LORI IS MAKING YOU PROUD, SHE IS MAKING ME SO PROUD OF HER. SHE IS HOME AND PLANS ON STAYING HOME.
GABBY IS JUST PRICELESS, THIS IS ALL I NEED TO SAY ABOUT HER.
THE TWINS ARE COPING AND TRYING TO STAY STRONG.
I DON'T HEAR NOR SEE MY BROTHER, HE HAS A BUSY LIFE, SO I CAN NOT SAY WHAT HE IS UP TO.
ME, WELL I LIVE IN MY OFFICE AT HOME, I HAVE MADE IT KIND OF A SHRINE OF YOU AND DAD AND YES ELVIS. I LOVE SITTING IN THERE EACH NIGHT AND TALKING TO YOU AND DAD (PLEASE KISS HIM FOR ME)
AS FOR JOHNNY, I THINK ABOUT HIM AND MISS HIM, IT HAS BEEN SO LONG SINCE HE LEFT, THEY SAY IT GETS EASIER, MOM YOU WERE RIGHT, YOU TOLD ME THAT IT GETS HARDER AND HARDER. I DID NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU WERE SAYING BUT I DO NOW.
LIFE HURTS WITHOUT YOU AROUND.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND WOULD YOU PLEASE
**DANCE WITH MY FATHER AGAIN**
YOUR ONLY DEBBIE
~
Debbie,
California
August 04, 2005
Happy Birthday Mama. If you took all your kids' wishes and put them in the palm of your hand you would see that not one day goes by that we don't have you in our hearts and on our mind. I miss being able to call you and to hear your voice. Debbie is right - just one more time Mom with you & Dad along with Lori's rainbow - what a party we would all have. Our days are hard, more so for some than others. The other day I had my 24/7 ELVIS music on the satellite station and said to Gary how much you would have loved being able to listen to Elvis like that all day long with no interruptions. So you see Mama not one day goes by that you’re not thought of and loved and missed so much. I love you Mom please dance with Dad and once with our Johnny.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 03, 2005
Dearest Mother of mine,
I wish I could send you a RAINBOW so big and bright that I could slide down to the other side with my girls by my side, just to spend this one day with you. We would hold you so tight and sing to each other and laugh and laugh the day away! Just to see your beautiful smile and shining blue eyes that sparkled so bright! Oh, what a day that would be! We love you Momma, not a day goes by without loving thoughts of you in our hearts and in our daily lives. So on this day, once again, we wish you a happy birthday! I know we will be together someday, just not today....................
Ever Loving You,
Forever & Ever,
AMEN!
Lori Nadine Rangel, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Fremont-FREEDOM!, California
August 03, 2005
Mom,
Today is my birthday and I feel so alone. I miss you so deeply. It will never be the same without you. I wish we could have just one more birthday together. To blow out those candles together, to open our presents and to laugh and to just be together.
Vicky reminds me so much of you, the way she laughs and makes those funny little noises that you used to, sometimes she says things that take me way back. We are all surviving because we have to and because that is what you would want from each one of us.
Is it easy? I do not need to answer that for you already know the answer.
I love you forever and ever
AMEN
~
Debbie,
California
July 26, 2005
Before I lay me down to sleep,
I think of Mom, Dad & Johnny, whose memory I keep,
Dad well he’s handsome, smart and strong
Mom who loved to listen long,
Johnny always had that silly look
To be a goof was all it took.
Dads always telling me think before you speak,
I always called, not even waiting a week.
I think they are with me,
When close my eyes, this I see.
Mom’s look of surprise,
Arms opened wide.
Dad with his baby blues,
His love so genuine and true
Johnny standing up to greet
His arms opened wide he is hugging me
I know my love is theirs to no end,
Unfortunately my heart needs to be on the mend.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 21, 2005
Dad,
I ache for you each and every day of my life, there isn't one single day that goes by that you are not in my thoughts and my heart. God only knows how much I miss you. we were so connected dad, I wonder about a lot of things. I am staying good and keeping true to my promises to you. I reach for the phone to call you and I still email you my thoughts and my love, although they keep coming back I feel that you somehow get them.
How in the world am I supposed to go on without my heart crying for you each and every day?
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
July 21, 2005
Mama,
My heart cried for you today. I miss you so much. I miss our daily talks and your laugher. I miss your beautiful smile and your beautiful baby blue eyes. I know they say one day we will be together, I hold on to this, but it's been 3 very long years mom. You always made me feel warm and safe and loved. I miss you mommy
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 17, 2005
I cannot explain it but I know you & Dad were with me last night. Mom I cannot believe you have been gone for 3 years already. Even if you & Dad had prepared us kids we still would not have accepted it. It's too painful. We all know in our hearts that you are gone but I know you are both with us. I love you so much and I always will. Until we are together keep Dad & Johnny in check.
Love always, Your daughter Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 13, 2005
WELL MOM AND DAD IT HAS BEEN A VERY LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE WRITTEN ANYTHING HERE. YOU KNOW WHY I HAVE KEPT TO MY SELF ON MY FEELINGS. I AM TRYING TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR HOME. IT IS TAKING ME A LONG TIME TO MAKE IT THE WAY YOU WOULD BE PROUD OF. MOM I KNOW YOU ARE HAPPY WITH THE CHANGES. DAD I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LIKED THE ROSES, I KNOW YOU WOULD FEEL AT PEACE HERE. I'M VERY CLOSE TO FINISHING THE KITCHEN AND THEN I WILL FOCUS ON FINISHING THE OFFICE. I KNOW YOU HAVE BEEN WATCHING OVER ME AS I SEE YOU ALL THE TIME. I FEEL VERY SAFE HERE WITH YOUR VISITS. I AM TAKING VERY GOOD CARE OF PEPI. HE IS SUCH A JOY AND IS GREAT COMPANY. I SEE HIM LISTENING TO EVERY WORD I SAY AND LOOKING LIKE HE UNDERSTANDS EVERYTHING. WELL YOU KNOW THAT I AM GOING TO HAVE THE SURGERY IN JUST TWO MORE DAYS. I'M NOT SCARED ANTMORE. I'M NOT AFRAID OF GOING HOME, ONLY THE PROSPECT OF NOT BEING WITH THESE WONDERFUL PEOPLE THAT LOVE ME. I HAVE PUT MY FAITH IN JESUS AND I'M CONFIDENT IN HIS PLANS. I HAVE SO MUCH TO THANK YOU FOR AND I WILL TRY MY BEST TO LIVE UP TO YOUR DREAMS FOR ME. I KNOW YOU WILL BE IN THE OPERATING ROOM WITH ME AND I WILL BE IN GOOD HANDS. I LOVE YOU BOTH SO DEARLY.
~
VICTORIA GUADAMUZ,
MODESTO, California
July 12, 2005
Well Vicky finally got the news she has been waiting for today, she is so excited, yet so scared. She is the strong one here mom and dad. PLEASE be with her and help me hold her hand through this. Although I will not be there with her, I am in her heart as you both are. Dad I know you once looked into my eyes and told me to not let her have this surgery, I agreed with you way back then, but she is so ready for this life changing procedure that it is now "her time". You both would be so proud of her.
Please, Please, Please with every ounce of love that we have for one another help guide her through a smooth surgery and recovery. She has never had anything easy in her life. She will accept whatever comes her way. I look at you both as very special angels, so this is my wish please watch over "our very special Vicky" and let this be her time to start living, let her find love and joy and happiness, but most of all, please give her back her health.
I have never asked my family for anything, I have always been the one who gave and gave and gave. I am now asking for your help and guidance for her. With special angels watching over her she will be just fine. I know you always told me that things happen for a reason, I do believe this with all of my heart. You gave me back my baby sister, she is home and I will help her as well.
Life is never easy, it has been so hard and tough since you both went to heaven, I long to hear your voice, I long to talk with you, and I long to touch you and hold you and kiss you both.
I love you both with all of my heart.
Until---------
~
Daddy's Girl,
California
July 07, 2005
This is probably my last chance to write to you for a little while. I won’t have access during and after my move for about a month. We pack tomorrow and Saturday. Then on this Beautiful Sunday, I finally get to fly home! I can't wait to see my sisters! I've been kept away from them for too long! Please pray with me for a smooth transition for my whole family, as we move back to CALIFORNIA and gradually, to FREEDOM! Please know that every day you are in my thoughts and in my heart forever! I love you so very much!
Lori Nadine Rangel, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
July 04, 2005
Well another 4th of July, Big Deal!
I miss you so much it cuts like a knife.
Sometimes I wish I could run away but you didn't raise me like that, you raised me to keep my head up high and never run away, to face my fears head on. well I am trying with all my heart here. It does not get easier it only gets harder.
I wish you were here to talk with me and guide me and keep my heart from crashing. So many let downs since you both went to heaven, so many disappointments, boy were you both right, I just didn't want to believe you. You were so right about it all. My love for you is real though. Dad, why! Why were you right?
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl
June 28, 2005
Almost had a set-back today, but dint let it happen. After trying everything I could think of to avoid the inevitable, realizing it was useless to fight it, I wouldn't win. As much as I wanted to give in and give up today, Dad, I dint! Instead, I found the strength inside to go on and look for the brighter side of things and I found it! Not only did I find the answer, but also the answer as to "why?" it happened in the first place!
Besides my daily struggles, it looks like my move date back to CALIFORNIA just got bumped up about 3 weeks and I will be there just a few short days after "Our" Vicki's surgery! So, I am in great hopes to be able to take care of my sister as she heals from her upcoming surgery she has scheduled for July 8th.
It seems most everyone who "was" going to be able to help watch over Vicki after wards, has something else going on in their lives now that will prevent them from being able to do so. In saying this, I now understand the reason for the sudden change in my moving plans & that it is GOD'S will for me to be able to be there early to assist my sister.
Thank you for making me make you that promise Dad! Sometimes I wish I had not, but I know why you had me do it. You knew more than most, what I was in for and what I had to look forward too. All though it has not been easy, I have made it this far! I am a Lewis at heart and a fighter and I will survive! Me and my children will be alright and we will have "our" family back together again!!!
P.S. Dad, please remember those "SPECIAL ANGELS" I asked you for to watch over "our" Vicki while she is healing?
Loving U Always,
Forever & Ever, Amen!
Lori Nadine Rangel, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
June 27, 2005
Well, it's another Sunday, just another Sunday. But it's another Sunday without you! Another week without you! A whole "rest" of my "life-time" without you!!! Sigh.....................
I miss you and needed to remind you that you are ever so much loved and missed by us all!!!
The flowers are so beautiful right now Momma, don't you just love them? Hey Dad, I fixed our fish tank today that was leaking, or so I thought! Turned out not to be broken, it was sumthin' else! But I figured it out and I fixed all by myself! And Johnny, the fishing' is great here, you'd love it! (These B just a few things I'd love to say to you today, and yes, in a different way!)
Just Sunday Dreamin'
Lori Nadine, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
June 19, 2005
HAPPY FATHERS DAY DADDY
Today I would have been at your house celebrating this very special day with you. Instead my heart cry’s for you. I miss you so much dad. I miss your talks, your wisdom, your laughter, I miss your touch, I miss your jokes, and I just plain miss everything about you.
My sisters and I have bonded a very close and special relationship. You would be so proud of Lori and Vicky, they are strong women and will survive. Carlene is Carlene and I hope she never changes, she is a ray of sunshine, Sandy and I have become closer and closer. She is starting to open up to me, she is a lot like me in so many ways.
As you know Lori will be home soon and Vicky will now have her life saving surgery, I know you wanted so much for her, I have not let you or her down. I have been there for her and always will be, I made a promise to you.
To see the changes in them makes my heart smile and it is all worth it.
So my precious father, today I celebrate "YOU" even though we are not together, you are in my heart and in my soul. I love you for all eternity.
You daughter
~
Daddy's Girl
June 18, 2005
Happy Father's Day Dad!
Where ever U may be 2-day, I hope U R happy and smiling, with Momma and Johnny by U'r side! Thoughts of U fill my head and heart, especially on days like this. I know U R never far away, I feel U'r presence all the time. Sorry for the time I had wasted, stuck in a deep dark state of depression! I know that time is all we really have left, and to waste it, is surely a sin! But I have learned from my mistakes and I was always taught by Mom & U, that it was ok to mess up now and then, as long as we learned from it and grew from it! I must say, I truly have! Momma, you would probably tell me, I’ve come a long way Baby!!! Sorry for periods of low strength and self-esteem I have gone thru in the past, but sometimes, it's just so darn hard to be strong!!!
I guess Andy's Mom, Helen, just went to join you in GODS Heavenly Paradise! I pray for Andy, she was all he had left to live for. I think he will latch onto Vicki more in these days that follow. I know U heard the great news on Vicki! She has finally got approval for her surgery and will under-go the procedures on July 8th of this year. Remember those "Special Angel's" Dad!
I got a joke for U Dad. I heard it the other day and it made me think of you! I haven't told any of my sister's it yet, cause I wanted to tell you first, they can read it from these pages first. This joke is like "Fine As Frog's Hair" which we all know, is pretty darn fine! OK, here it goes...............
Dad, what does a Frog Drink???
Don't know???
OK, a Frog drinks "CROAK-A-COLA"!!!
Do U get it??? I thought it was cute, in a blonde kind of way!
I thought you would like it Dad!
I love and miss U so very, very, very much!!! Manny hugs and kisses!
Johnny, you R the lucky one this year!!!
Your Baby Girl,
Lori Nadine
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
June 13, 2005
By your example,
We all learned honesty and generosity,
You never refused anyone who needed help.
By your example,
We learned how to work hard,
We learned how to do whatever needed to be done.
By your example,
We learned that with a little know-how,
Desire and determination
We could do anything we wanted.
You were a firm hand, harvester, husband
Mechanic, electrician, plumber, mentor, father
Businessman and inventor and best friend.
By your example,
We learned to be there for you.
You were always there for your family,
No matter what, good or bad your love
Was unconditional.
By your example,
We learned to laugh and smile
In spite of our circumstances.
Because of your example,
We are proud to call you Dad.
And while we shed tears of sorrow,
We take comfort in knowing that you are with Mom & Johnny.
I love you dad..
Happy Father's Day.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 09, 2005
Hello My Beloved Parents & Brother Johnny. I have GREAT NEWS! It looks like I'm going HOME!!! I'll be back HOME with my DEBBIE & Gabby's GiGi, but we share with each other! It would be nice to see my brother too. I will visit you in all of the same places, but my heart is so full of love for you right now, right here, wherever I may be, it does not matter, for the moment, because I now know, I'm going to be alright!!!
I love you ever so deeply.
Your Lori, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, California
June 08, 2005
Mom I have re-read your journal. You have taught me to leave such a memorable gift to my children when I go to join you, Dad & Johnny. There are parts in this journal Mom that were pretty hard to read. You were such a strong woman. As time goes on I realize more and more why you were so angry at times. It bothered me to see you have so much anger inside of you, but that was because I didn't understand. I do now. Being that I lived 2500 miles from home in many ways I was 'removed' from so many things that went on. I wish we had talked more. I love you Mamma
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 07, 2005
ETERNAL LOVE
ALWAYS AND FOREVER
AMEN
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 01, 2005
Dearest Mother & Father,
I said a prayer for U yesterday as I overlooked the Sea. I took my girls to a beautiful park overlooking the beach and thoughts of you flooded my mind. I've been having such a difficult time now, for the longest time! But somehow I kept hoping things would start to get better, I just couldn't break my promise to you Dad. Thank GOD for Debbie, she helped carry me through the roughest of waters and I'm finally on the way up again. Depression is an awful thing. It can grab ahold of you and literally suck the life right out of you. I guess that's what happened to me.
I had no joy left in my heart or in my life. I couldn't enjoy anything anymore. Just when it seemed like there was no chance left for me, I finally got the help I so needed and started to rebound back in the right direction. Thank you to ALL of my family members who never gave up on me and of course my Coach, Debbie. I feel joy in a way that I had forgotten how. Thank You GOD for giving me the chance to live again. I will not waste it this time.
My Love,
Lori, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
May 25, 2005
Oh how I miss all of you. At the same time I am very lucky for all the wonderful memories that I have.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 19, 2005
There isn't a day that goes by that you are not missed or thought of. I miss you so much. My love will live on for you for eternity. I have no regrets; I only have pain from losing you. My heart is broken and can never be repaired. I miss your smiles, your laughter, your beautiful blue eyes, your warm embrace, your encouraging words, your love, BUT most of all I miss you.
Amen
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 16, 2005
This is an email I rec'd from Jr. Chamberlain of some things he had to say about our Dad and thought it was only appropriate to share this with everyone:
Carlene, this is Junior. You're right, life is short even if we live to be old. The older we get the more we realize just how short life is. The next life is eternal.
I am sorry to hear that you lost your parents. Speaking of your dad, I always thought a lot of him also. He used to drive a wrecker and when I was on the police force, we used to call him out at nights to pull in wrecks. A lot of times after he pulled the wreck in he would come to the station for a cup of coffee and a chat. We called him "Louie". Yes, I thought a lot of Louie.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 10, 2005
Dad,
Are you here? I have to ask you this! Gabby has been talking to someone lately that I cannot see. I would think she is just playing, but she has been singing a new song she made up; you know how she loves to sing. She walks around the house singing this......"Bop Pop is my friend! Yes, Bop Pop is my friend! Oh, Bop Pop is my friend and he loves me so!"
If it's you Dad, I want to thank you! Not just for me, but for my baby girls that still love you so!!!
Forever Daddy,
Your Baby Girl
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
May 09, 2005
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to my Dear Sweet Mother!
How quickly time flies by. It seems like just yesterday, we were all together. Laughing and joking and loving one another. But, it's really been years already. Manna is growing up so fast before my eyes. You would be so proud of her. Gabby is a wonderful loving little girl that has a mind of her own. You are a part of our life every day. Nothing has been forgotten, nor will it ever. I had a nice quite day today, just me and my girls. I stopped to remember just how lucky I am to have two, wonderful, beautiful little girls to love. I don't know what I would do without them. It's tough at times, but I wouldn't trade being their mother for anything. And I want to thank you for being my wonderful and beautiful, loving Mother and Grandmother to my girls!
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
May 08, 2005
Mom,
Today is Mother’s Day You would have received cards from all of your kids and they would be proudly displayed on top of your TV. Vicky, David, Lori and I would have come over to spend this day with you bringing you gifts of love. You would have heard from each of your kids by phone. I can see you sitting in your chair with your tiny feet up, with a small airline blanket to cover your legs, and we can't forget that you would of had your "work" clothes on. We would have laughed and talked and a few of us would have gotten dad a card for Mother’s Day as well. You raised us to love honor and respect you mom and this is what we did. Today is Mother’s day and we cannot do all of the things we used to, now we visit you in our dreams and in our hearts and minds. We will never forget mom. How can we? We will continue to love honor and cherish you forever. You are truly missed by us all, it is so hard and unbearable at times mom but you gave us the strength to go on and know that one day we will all be together.
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY MOM
Eternal Love to you
always and forever
AMEN
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 08, 2005
Happy mother's Day Mom. I will go over all the wonderful memories that you & I shared over the years together and today I will celebrate you! I love you so much and I miss you Mom.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 04, 2005
GOD HOW I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEART.
TO HEAR YOUR LAUGH ONE MORE TIME!
TO SEE YOUR SMILE ONE LAST TIME
TO WRAP MY ARMS AROUND YOU AND NEVER LET GO WOULD BE HEAVEN TO ME
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 01, 2005
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad........
It still ALL hardly seems real, the way life happens. And for those still standing, those left behind, what for them. How do we do it??? This I don't know! Never would I, 11 years ago today, have thought life would be as it is today. I had such hopes and dreams back then! Life as I knew it, at the time, was such a wonderful and beautiful place to be! I'd do most anything to feel that joy again in my life!!! I lost it so long ago, I can't remember when. The love you both have given and shared with each other and your children still lives on. I may not have the joy in my heart any longer that I so do yearn to have, but the love you gave and taught so well, lives on inside me, I know it's there. I miss you and love you both so very much! Johnny, please give them both a big hug and kiss from me.
Loving Thoughts of All of You,
Your Baby, Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
May 01, 2005
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY DAD AND MOM
Wow 52 years! you always said
"together forever"
I hope you are both happy and at peace.
You are so missed and so loved.
So much has changed, so much of what you predicted came true dad. I am sorry!
You will always have my love and my promises. thank you for showing me that you are with me, I cherish that and will wait until the next time.
Mom? I'm here!
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
May 01, 2005
Happy anniversary Mom & Dad. So close yet so far. All through my young life I always thought parents were invincible. You were always supposed to be with us. Then one day reality hit. You are together forever and I miss you so much. My love for you is forever yours.
Love always Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
|
April 25, 2005
Time passes on day by day, who ever said it gets easier did not know you both. For me it gets harder and harder. I cannot let myself think of you not here, I am truly afraid of what might happen when that dreaded time comes when reality sinks in. Every so often I allow my thoughts to take over and I end up in a panic attack.
How does one ever cope with the loss of their beloved parents?
I miss you so deeply and love you always and forever. AMEN!
~
Daddy's Gril,
Belmont, California
April 18, 2005
Today is your Baby's birthday, we all miss you so much, I will not give up until she is safe and warm. Pretty soon she will be home where she belongs. Life will never be the same without you, please watch over us all. Thank you for giving her to me Mom and Dad, she is so precious to me.
I love you very much
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
April 18, 2005
I LOVE YOU MOM & DAD, THANK YOU!
~
Lori Rangel,
Hawaii
April 17, 2005
Good Morning Mom, Dad & Johnny,
I hope you are all smiling and holding one another. I feel you close to me today, some days more than others, and I just wanted to thank you once again for always loving me. You are ALL missed SO very much!!! There are so many times I just can't handle life without you!! It's times like that our Debbie somehow gets me thru!! Dad, I see so much of you in our Debbie. Thank you so much for giving her to me. She is my Best Friend and always will be. As a child, I never realized how much we would need and depend on one another for love and support when we got older. Thank you for Blessing me with SO many siblings to love and grow old with, but a Special Thank You is in order, for Blessing me with our Debbie!! She is a true Angel among us!!!
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 16, 2005
Dearest Brother John,
It's that time of year again, the time we use to celebrate our Birthdays together! I'm very alone this year, but today, I celebrate you, and Mom & Dad for bringing you into this world. I thank them for blessing me with the World's Greatest Brother, for those almost 30 years that I had you in my life. You taught me alot over the years, how to laugh, how to have fun, even if it wasn't funny at the time! But when it came down to it, you always had my back. You would try to hide your feelings, tuff guy, you'd think, but I saw your huge heart, when it came to your family. They say, the good ones always go first, well, I guess that's the case, cause you were # 1!!! Our Birthdays will never be the same to me again, but I thank you for ALL of those wonderful memories, from days gone by, that you have left with me. As long as I have those memories, you live on, inside of me.
Happy Birthday Brother, John H. Lewis II, April 16, 1956.
Until we meet again, here is all the love in my heart!!!!
Your baby sister, Lori, Corkscrew, #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 16, 2005
Dad and Mom;
Today my older brother turns 49, time passes by so quickly, yet stands still as well. Birthdays were always spent together singing happy birthday and giving gifts of love to one another, it is all just a memory now. Mom: I dreamed of you last night and you were standing next to Johnny laughing with your arm around him, I want to run wild with that dream but for now i will have comfort knowing that you are together and will celebrate his birthday for us. Dad; please save a piece of that snow ball cake that he is going to eat today for the rest of us. You are all so missed and loved.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
April 15, 2005
When I look upon your photograph.
Not so long ago, not so faded.
A picture of my beloved big brother.
The memories that fill my mind.
The times we cried and the times we laughed.
How my big brother watches over me now,
Makes sure I'm not hurt.
The parties we went to, the dances at Barney Steeles,
the rides home from the donut shop just to name a few.
We thought we would grow old together.
Through the years we thought it was true.
Then time had come to call.
My big brother had to go.
He passed away, he went to eternal sleep.
God is holding him as he sleeps.
Until he comes to call.
All I have are memories and your photograph.
In memory of my big brother John.
Happy 49th Birthday Johnny I miss you and love you very much!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 11, 2005
Happy Birthday Daddy:
You have my eternal love forever I miss you so much my heart cries for you daily I still cannot accept that you are not up in Modesto. Please help me!
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
April 10, 2005
NO WORDS - ONLY TEARS
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
April 09, 2005
Dear Grandpa John,
I love you and miss you so much! I hope you have a happy BD and that grandma fixes your favorite chilly just the way you like it.
Love Always,
Mandy
~
Amanda Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 09, 2005
Happy Birthday Dad!!! I love you!!! Mom, please give dad a hug and a kiss for me.
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 09, 2005
Hello, Happy Birthday Bop-Pop!!! I sure do love you so. I'm being good, as good as a 3-1/2 year old can be!!! I like the snow!! It's my very favorite play time! I throw snowballs! I make angels! I get SO cold! I go back in, we change, AH, warm again!! I drink milk. Watch my movies. I fall asleep. (EVENTUALLY)!!!
~
Gabby Jonae Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 08, 2005
Today, I thought about you again. Trying hard to remember every detail of your face, your voice, your gentle ways, your hands, your laughter. Always keeping you close to my heart for the time being, that we are apart. Ever wishing, I could just pick up the phone, and hear you one more time. To say "I love you" and of course today, "Happy Birthday". I thank GOD for blessing me with such wonderful parents as you and Mom. So wherever you are today, dear father, please know that you are loved so deeply and missed more and more each day, forever and ever. Amen!
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 08, 2005
Dad, We Miss You So...
Kind and gentle, that was your way
Big and strong, always there for us
You were known as a teddy bear
Though the size of a gentle giant
Those who knew you well
Knew your ways and wishes
We loved you as you were
For you were always a laugh
I enjoyed our time together
Just wish it were longer
We miss you greatly now
As if a huge void
Our time together came to a stop
You suffered so during your stay
It hardly seems fair
To such a gentle man
You lived your life right
And treated others with respect
That brings up the question
Why you? Why Dad?
Was it some master plan
To show your children that
We could go on without you & Mom
You managed your family well
Did without to provide for 9
It seemed that is what you wanted most
But you were taken from us way too soon
You cared for all of us
And when your time came
We cared for you as best we could
Making mistakes along the way
Our times together are missed so much
Our jokes of the snails in the yard
The emailing back & forth
The simple talks and laughs together
That is what you were all about
There is a void on this earth of ours now
And in our hearts forever
Since you have been taken from us
I know the Lord knows when it’s your time
But our time was so short
Life hardly seems fair
For someone like you to suffer as you did
Kind and gentle, that was your way
Big and strong, that's what you were for us
We miss and love you Dad
In loving memory of: John H. Lewis I
Happy 74th Birth Anniversary Dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 08, 2005
Momma,
It's really hard all the time, but especially when my Amanda cries for you. Last week, she cried very hard, because she said she's starting to forget what your voice sounds like and how you smelled. So I did my best to put on a happy face for her and I helped her to remember. She was given an assignment at school the next day. She had a choice of #1-How my Spring Break could have been better? or #2-My favorite place is? Well, she picked #2 and wrote a beautiful story! It was, "My Favorite Place is in my Grandma's arms". Her teacher was so blown away with it that she is entering it in the UAA Contest for her!!! Amanda loves you so much Mom! Life changed for her too, as she knew it, the day we said "Good-bye" to you. But I promise you Mom, I will not let her ever forget!!!
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
April 05, 2005
I MISS YOU SO MUCH
I LOVE YOU MORE
I CRY FOR YOU ALWAYS
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
March 30, 2005
PLEASE watch over "our Vicky" she has come so far, PLEASE let this be the beginning for her. You are so missed and so deeply loved.
Life Hurts without you in it.
Eternal Love
Always and Forever
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
March 27, 2005
HAPPY EASTER DAD AND MOM
Another Easter come and gone. This year I spent with our Vicky. I miss you both so much, my life will never be the same without you with me. So much hate in this world, you are both in a beautiful happy place where you don't see the bad in people. You saw enough of it while you were here. If you could spare any love to drop down on this earth, we need it.
I need to get the images of your last days on earth out of my heart and mind; it is all that I can remember at times.
PLEASE help me to get those images out. I need you both
All my love forever and ever Amen
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
March 25, 2005
For you Mama:
As children, we can't comprehend or fully realize The meaning of our mother's love, how tender and how wise, The patience and forgiveness that are part of every day, The unexpected "little things" she does in her own way. Years go by before we can look back on life and see Through older eyes and wiser hearts her love and loyalty, And yet it's these and other special things we'll hold so dear, For memories of her steadfast love will keep her ever near.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 15, 2005
I just do not understand so much. I look for answers and there are none. What am I to believe? I am so hurt. I wish you were here to talk with me and make it all ok. You always knew just what to say and what to do. Your smile, your laugh, your encouragement. I yearn for an ear to listen to me and tell me everything is going to be alright. But it's not, it is never going to be again. I am trying my best with no help from anyone (but then you knew this would happen)I can only hope that if the day ever comes when I need help someone will be there for me.
I love you and miss you so deeply
~
Daddy's Girl,
California
March 08, 2005
I wanted to share such a beautiful message that was sent to Sandy & I from our special Debbie:
Good Morning Carlene
Back on this day 48 years ago two beautiful people gave birth to a healthy screaming baby girl, you can just imagine yourself there seeing the look on their Mother's face when oh my goodness not only did there beautiful Sandy come into life, but here comes a healthy kicking beautiful little girl they would call Carlene, she was a feisty one. Mom was in shock and dad stood at the end of the bed both arms crossed and he said "oh momma thank you for giving me my precious little twin girls, I have twice the love here now.
I hope you both have a beautiful day and realize how special you both are to have been born twins.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARLENE.
I love you both very much and I am wishing you a special day. Do something to remember this 48th birthday today.
all my Love
Debbie
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 08, 2005
I lay very still - eyes closed as gentle as can be reminiscing all the way back through the years and years of memories that I have stored for eternity. As I lay here begging somewhat pleading how wonderful would that be to have you both come to me on this special day, then it hit me. Why am I laying here with my eyes closed and wanting what I already have. You both are a part of me and will live on me.
Thank you for your undying love. Thank you for me.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
March 04, 2005
Mom and Dad, I promise you that one day before I die I will be able to say that the family you left behind is actually a family and shows respect for each other. I know that you both gave us all you could and deserve to see the children you left hind all act like the fine people you worked so hard to raise. I can tell you this I am proud and lucky to have my family and thank you both every day for giving this to us. The love you have given is not lost it is just sometimes misplaced and I know you will guide everyone of use to find it once again when we misplace it.
One proud man David Lewis.
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
February 24, 2005
I LOVE AND MISS YOU ALL THREE.
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
February 22, 2005
From time to time we may think that you are not around us, when in fact I believe you are. There are times I am sure one if not all of you are with us ~~~ we just don't know it. Please let Debbie know. Go to her and let her know. Johnny went to her not too long ago. She needs a message from you Mom & Dad. In the meantime your children will hold onto to their faith. I love you Mom Dad & Johnny!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Minnesota
February 13, 2005
Hello Amanda’s grandparents,
I’ve heard so much about you. When i go to heaven I’d like to meet you. You really look like some
nice folks.
Love,
sarah bergandy rogers
~
Sarah Rogers,
Anchorage, Alaska
February 11, 2005
On this day.....this very special day
There is something I would like to say
Everyday my heart breaks in two
Most of my days seem to be blue
And I wish you being gone wasn't true.
As this special day comes along
I reminisce of you like a song
The song eventually comes to an end
And tomorrow I get up only to do this again.
I love you always and you are remembered today....
Happy Valentine's Day!
Please help your children find peace, acceptance and closure.
I love you, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 03, 2005
I love you Mom & Dad. I love you Johnny. I ask you all again to please show one of us a sign, something, anything. If you can show this sign to our Debbie. Please.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 24, 2005
Please help me before my anger takes over the love I have in my heart. Please help me understand why I am so angry. My love was so powerful for you both and I am trying, but once again God is testing that faith.
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 13, 2005
As I read the messages that your family is trying to send to you, trying to reach out, grasping for answers I get chills. Though we were never raised with a deep knowledge of GOD we all believed. Please listen to our plea for help. Please help our Debbie.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
January 11, 2005
Another year is here and time is not healing any of my hurts, It is getting harder and harder, I miss you so much. I cannot listen to Elvis to this day mom, and dad I listen to your phone machine message each night before I go to bed. Johnny, the other day David left a message on my voice mail and I was overcome with so many feelings as he sounded just like you. I have so many questions and have received no answers. Sandy said something to me today that touched my heart in a way that no one has since you went away. She said, when she goes to heaven she is going to make sure that she guides you to come to us. Especially me. I was so choked up. We talked about this; you swore that if it was possible you would come to me, I had this conversation with you both, are you trying to tell me that you can't and that it is not possible? Where are you? Why can't you come? Is it over? Please help me! I need you! Please help me understand!
eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
January 04, 2005
I think all of us kids were really sheltered throughout our lives from Mom & Dad. They loved us so much they always wanted to protect us. So for us to accept that they are gone is very hard for us. We go through our days as if they are just out somewhere. Yet we all understand in many ways this is not very healthy. We ask you Mom & dad to take a moment and touch each one of us this year. If you are too busy each of us would love to see Johnny. Some more than others truly need this touch. Life as we knew it has been changed forever. Does the loss of a loved one make us stronger? Not always, sometimes we just get weaker. Everyone loved the calendars this year though it was pretty tough to do this year. They will never be the same. I love you always Mom & Dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 28, 2004
Christmas has come and gone, and you were deeply missed. My god I can not believe that we made it through it without you, It was very hard,most of us were together and helped one another. I now know without a doubt that what Vicky and I did with your photo albums was the right thing to do,Roxanne was speechless(first time for everything) and Lori was in Awh, I knowshe loved it. Then there was David, like his entry said it was the most priceless gift he will ever receive. Vicky and I laughed and remembered and cried while making these books. I know you both approve. I do not think that I can ever except the fact that you are not up in Modesto, why do you think thatI can not go there. I miss you so deeply and have to push the thoughts of you out of my mind at times before I loose it and end up in a nut house. I know that day will come and I pray for your help when it does. Please look over my sisters and my brother and help guide us to make the best decisions that we can. and help us to stay strong, PLEASE!
My eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
December 26, 2004
Today I recieved one of the most touching present I may have ever recieved in my life. Most people think of a material item when they think of giving the altimate gift. I did recieve a material item but it was there turning memories of my life from child hood to now with my mothers handwriting and loving care.I will never foget that I made you feel like a queen.Iwas also hit with the memories of my father which you all know in my teen yearswe had major differences but we recieved a second chance and boy did we makethe most of it. I hope you all know that he still walks with me every step Itake and I cant help but say the phrases he always said. My brother Johnny I will never forget so many of the things we did together and I will never forget how proud you were to introduce me to everyone you knew.I do know that know one that met you will forget you, even when you did wrong everyone still loved you.I will never be able to thank my sisters who did all this hard and heart touching work for me.I love you all and want you all to know you are all blessed as you are all lewis's this is a very proud thing to be able to say. Thank you for being my family and loving me so much. I want to make a specail thanks to my sister Vicky who has to biggest heart in the world and my little sister debbie who has always done every thing she could do for others.If I could only say three words to everyone who reads this it would be "I LOVEYOU".
This with written by the heart of David Wayne Lewis
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
December 25, 2004
Merry Christmas Mom, Dad & Johnny. You may not be with us in person but you are with us in each of our hearts. Life will never be the same for us without you. We love you and we miss you so much.
Love, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 20, 2004
4 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS. I KEEP WAITING FOR YOU TO ASK ME "HOW MANY MORE DAYS" DAD! GOD YOU ARE ALL SO MISSED. IT'S NOT THE SAME IT NEVER WILL BE. HOW ARE WE SUPPOSED TO GO ON?
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 20, 2004
"To the best parents in the world"
Life will never be the same with out our Mother and Father with us.
No holiday will ever be the same.
We all have our own feelings but one thing we all share is the honor of having the best parents in world. Thank you both for giving us so love.We will always love you both forever.Love David Wayne Lewis #7
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
December 13, 2004
I came across this poem and immediately what came to mind was the relationship between Dad & Debbie.We were all special to dad in ourown way but there was no mistaking the fact that Dad & Debbie had a closerrelationship in many ways. So with that I would like to dedicated this poem to Dad and to Debbie both with love.
Memories of My Dad
He wasn't a hero
Known by the world
But a hero he was
To his little girl.
My daddy was God
Who knew all things
And better than Santa
With the gifts he'd bring.
I knew his voice
Before I could speak
And loved it when
He would sing me to sleep.
He changed my diapers
And sat up all night
When my body was weak
And I'd put up a fight.
He'd come home late
With not much to say
And made us all kneel
As he taught us to pray.
He taught us life's lessons
Of right from wrong
And instilled in us values
That we might be strong.
And so through the years
Like a hero he stood
Working to give
All that he could
His presence was important
And we loved to see him smile
For no one in the world
Could emulate his style.
And so dear Dad
My best memory to recall
Is the gift of your presence
The greatest gift of all.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
December 13, 2004
Hello Father,
I want to thank you for being the best that you could be, always and forever, for everyone and me. For always giving me the courage to do or try anything!!You always made me feel that I could do it, no matter what it was, if I just put my mind to it, the sky was the limit! And boy, did I ever put that to the test. And you were always right, not that I ever doubted you!! Even if I didn't always follow your advise, you still stood beside me and helped pick me back up again. Never saying the ever dredded slogan "I told you so"!! Thank you for that too! There are so many times I feel the need to talk to you, ask your advise, or just hear your wonderful voice, and I end up lost somewhere far away, just missing you! Wishing I could be near you, just hear your voice once again. The empty void inside me, that no one else can fill consumes me with grief at very desperate moments sometimes. My life and my sibling's lives will never, never be the same. How could it, we all lost the greatest man who ever lived, the day you went to Heaven to join our Dear and Loving Mother! At least we feel that way, and I know I can speak for everyone as I say these words. My life has a very special meaning to it, because I am from You, and our Beautiful Mother, of course. I know that we all have to die sometime, but when you love someone, that time is never right or long enough!! I pray for strength everyday. Life is not an easy place to be. You are truely the lucky one's, who have joined GOD's Kingdom before us. The waiting to be reunited with You has to be the hardest part of still being alive in this body my soul now occupies!! I remember so much of you and memories are ALL I have to sustain myself, while busy, daily, nightly, missing you. Your Baby Girl, #8
~
LORI NADINE LEWIS-Rangel,
Not At Home, Alaska
December 13, 2004
HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY THAT I LOVE YOU????
~
Lori Nadine LEWIS-Rangel #8,
TOO COLD!!, Alaska
December 13, 2004
HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY THAT I LOVE YOU????
~
Lori LEWIS-Rangel,
TOO COLD!!, Alaska
December 12, 2004
My heart hurts for you!
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 12, 2004
Mom,
Amanda had her first Chorus recital on Wednesday at school. You always attended all of her school functions, Girl Scouts, etc. I miss having you by my side, as we would always cry happy tears for 'our' precious Amanda. I'm so very proud of her Mom. She is growing up SOOOOO fast! I let her wear a necklace of yours that you gave me many years ago for her performance. I told her if she started tof eel nervous or got scared in any way, just to think of Grandma and to pretend you were right there in the front row, watching her perform & everything would be fine. Well, she did get a little nervous about 1/2 way thru her concert. Then I noticed her reach up to hold onto the rose pendant, hanging from the chain around her neck. I saw a beautiful inner strength emerge from'our' Amanda that eminated thru-out the entire stage area where she stood. I knew that it was YOU MOMMA, helping her thru, once again!! Thank You Momma!!!She sang SOOOO beautifully!!! I kept wishing you were there to see her shine! After her performance was over and we talked about it, I mentioned to her that I noticed she got a little nervous somewhere around mid performance. She said,yes, that she started to feel uncomfortable, so she held onto your necklace and thought real strongly about you. She said the next thing she knew, she felt you place your loving arms around her, and she was no longer scared! From that point on, she sang her heart out & gave such a wonderful performance!! Thank you Mother for always being here for 'our' Amanda. She tells me that you are her Guardian Angel and I believe she is right!! I witnessed the change in her on stage, from the moment she reached up to hold onto that pendant hanging from her neck, she didn't let go of it either, but I could see, she was no longer afraid!! At first, I thought she was just taking my advise I had given her earlier, before her recital began, but who can explain the aura of light that surrounded her, from her elbows up?? Only she could, when she told me that you had put your loving arms around her!!! And that is when she started singing for Grandma!!!! Thank you again Momma!!! You will never know how much you are missed by all of us, but especially by your little Granddaughter, Amanda!! She writes about you all the time at school on different assignments and such. She won a first place award last year for 'Best Picture' at school, when they had to draw a picture of them doing one of their favorite things. She drew apicture of you and her walking on the beach in CALIFORNIA and it said,"I'm happiest when I'm with my Grandma"!!! She cries for you alot Mom, and sometimes I don't know what to do or say, sometimes, I just cry with her. We are not afraid to die Mom, because we know where we get to go, and we know who will be there to greet us!! Until then Momma, forever missing you, is all we can do!! Please give Dad a Great Big Hug from me!! Tell him, I'm keeping my last promise I made to him, and that I'll never give up, no matter how hard life seems at times, your love for us lives on forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #8
~
Lori Nadine LEWIS-Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
December 08, 2004
My love will never fade as the love you both gave me is embedded through out every part of me.They say that time will heal every thingbut the people that say that never had the privilege of having you both forparents.Thank you for making us all so unique.Your love will be with meforever.With all the love in the world your number seven David Wayne Lewis.
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
December 07, 2004
Christmas is almost here again, time just keeps right onpassing me by. This is a very difficult time for me dad, you made our Christmaseach and every year so very exciting and so special. It will never be the same,however I am trying to carry on your legacy of what Christmas meant to you andwhat you instilled in me. I miss you so much daddy, my heart aches for you.
As you know part of the family will be together this year, this helps some dad.But it will never be the same for me. My gift was to watch you and mom open upyour gifts and watch you open up your very special calendars and capture yourexcitment and joy and tears as you looked through each page over and over andover. Oh what I wouldn't give to hear "how many more days untilChristmas" one more time! We are family and we are doing what you havealways wanted. I hope you are both at peace and I still pray for just that one time you canlet me know dad, please let me have that from you. I never asked anything fromanyone, I always gave and I will continue to give, so please if you can let mehave that peace my heart and mind so badly needs.
Eternal love
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 03, 2004
If I had my life to do over
I'd have chosen you to be my dad once more
Even if it meant losing you again,
It's worth all the tears in the world.
You were my sunshine when skies were gray.
I loved you and honored you
You took all my tears away
I was happy to be with you,
Proud to be your little Daddys Girl
Sometimes we would argue
But to me you meant the world
Your love was always pure.
Your time seemed all too short and I feel so alone
What can I take from this?
My heart is completely crushed.
But nothing loved is ever lost
And you are loved so much
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 02, 2004
I love you Mom, Dad & Johnny more than words can everexpress. It was not easy but I am continuing the calendars. It's hard becausethey were always done with you in mind. I could not wait for Debbie to call meand describe to me what your expressions were and what you would say. I wouldalways said to Debbie "Tell me everything, don't leave anything out. Makeme feel like I was rihgt there.' And she always did. I know Mom & Dad youwould have wanted me to continue the calendars. So I will. Though it will neverbe the same. I love you all so much.
Your daughter & sister Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 25, 2004
Thanksgiving day! I have so many reasons to be thankful onthis day. I got you for 41 years of my life. NOT ENOUGH! This is a verydifferent day for me, I always spent it with you and part of my family, today Iwill not be with any of my family members, I was afraid of this and it ishappening. Everyone goes on. My heart is so full of love for my family this will never change. It seems like everything else is changing though. My life is sad without you , my heart is broken and will never mend.
My only comfort is knowing you are pain free.
UNTIL~~~~~~~
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2004
Dad... Is it really you touching us all
I think it is
For you know all to well
what needs to happen
And what had to be done
Thank you Dad
Lord knows I have prayed
For so many things
I know you have Mom's hand
Placed in your hand
And you are both watching
Your children from above
Should you get lonely
Please come down for a moment
In time and touch us once more.
My love is forever yours
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 23, 2004
DADDY,
I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S BEEN A YEAR ALREADY.
I THOUGHT OF YOU WITH LOVE TODAY,
BUT THAT IS NOTHING NEW.
I THOUGHT ABOUT YOU YESTERDAY,
AND THE DAYS BEFORE THAT TOO.
I THINK OF YOU IN SILENCE,
I OFTEN SPEAK YOUR NAME.
NOW ALL I HAVE ARE MEMORIES,
AND YOUR PICTURE IN A FRAME.
MEMORIES ARE MY KEEPSAKE
WITH WHICH I'LL NEVER PART.
GOD HAS YOU IN HIS KEEPING
I HAVE YOU IN MY HEART!
SO SADLY MISSED AND LOVED,
YOUR DAUGHTER, ~ROXANNE
~
ROXANNE BAYLOR,
BYRDSTOWN, Tennessee
November 23, 2004
Oh Dear God Daddy, this is just not right! Today is oneyear, it feels like a million, I miss you so much that my words can not evenbegin to describe it. Sandy said it right,I am a rock on the outside foreveryone, but inside I am dying.
WHY?
No dreams, no visions, no nothing dad, PLEASE help me! We are all clinging tohope here and it is getting harder. We talked about this, you said "howwill I be able to come back and let you all know that I am ok"? rememberdad, please ask god to let you show your kids. I know how much you love me, soI beg of you to please let me see your face, your smile let me feel your touchone last time.
Eternal love to you my daddy
~
Daddy's Girl Schletter,
Belmont, California
November 22, 2004
We miss you Dad, this is true.
Your caring ways, your eyes of blue.
Your gentle hand, your smiling eyes.
You have left us for Heaven's ties.
Your soul departed on Angel's wings.
Your heart surrounded by better things.
Our hearts saddened not to feel your touch.
For you know that we loved you much.
We won't be beaten by life's bitter deal.
For we know you're in heaven and this is for real.
You will be our Angel guiding us through.
We will feel your love and our hearts will be true.
One day we'll all be together again.
Then there'll be no more suffering and pain.
There will be happiness, laughter and love.
We'll all be "again a family" in Heaven above..
WE MISS YOU DAD. November 23rd marks 1 year that we have not had you here withus. You promised that if there was a way that you would come back to us. Don'tlet us lose faith Dad, please show us there is a special heaven where we mayjoin you and Mom and Johnny.
I love you Dad.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 13, 2004
Oh my god this is hard Mom and Dad.I really learned so muchfrom you both and I didn"t even know it until I had to feel it. I cantruth fully say that I have been in so much pain and sorrow that I felt betteroff dead and the last couple years have tested me to the max. I want you bothto know that I have finally felt a happyness that has been missing for so longand I realize this wasn't pain it was acually love. Thank you both for makingme the leader and not the follower and how to love everyone and every thing. I willspend the rest of mt life tring to teach this to my children and all I meet.Last week I got a new job,and I feel and I'm treated like the leader you bothmade me,although all my sorrow is not gone I feel as if I finally have a newstart. Please thank god for giving me MY family return true my Family.I willowe him forever! DAVID /DUKE /WAYNE #7 I LOVE YOU FOREVER.
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
November 12, 2004
Losing Mom, Dad & Johnny we all had to reach deep insideourselves for the courage to go on–through our exhaustion, through the crisesand stress, and through the grief. With this, we grew up. We become initiatedinto full adulthood. An invisible umbilical cord is severed; there is no safehaven to return to, no one to back us up. With a sobering sense of both thefragility of life and the certainty of death, we realize that our existence isnow fully in our hands.
"I feel a new freedom that is exhilarating but also terrifying. How I livemy life now is all up to me."
Our parents and Johnny, in their death, have offered us the gift of anotherbirth. In receiving that gift, we come to embrace life fully–with all itsmystery and humanness, conflict and resolution, joys and sorrows, separationsand meetings. "When a child is born, a man and woman embrace, or a motheror father dies, the mystery of life reveals itself to us. It is precisely inthe moments when we are most human, most in touch with what binds us together,that we discover the hidden depths of life."
Mom & Dad's work is done now. They are at peace. Don't wish for them tohelp us or to come to us. For their spirits live within each of us. I know someof us maybe all of us are having a very hard time dealing with this loss. It'simportant NOT to shut out family and friends and to lean on them for support.We are what is left. We need to be there for each other!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
November 10, 2004
I Love you and miss you both so bad. Please help us all.
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
October 31, 2004
HAPPY HALLOWEEN DAD AND MOM;
YOU BOTH ARE SO TRULY MISSED, LIFE IS SO HARD AT TIMES, SOMEDAYS HARDER THANOTHERS. SOMEONE ASKED ME THE OTHER DAY IF I HAD ONE WISH WHAT WOULD IT BE AND ISAID "TO HAVE MY PARENTS BACK FOR ONE MORE DAY" BUT THEN I THOUGHTONE MORE DAY IS NOT ENOUGH. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND AND NEVER WILL. I AM TRYING TOBELIEVE BUT IT IS SO HARD. MY LOVE FOR YOU IS SO DEEP, MY HEART WILL NEVER HEALFROM LOOSING YOU.
ETERNAL LOVE
~
DADDY'S GIRL,
Belmont, California
October 23, 2004
I did it! thank you for being beside me today all the way
eternal love always and forever
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
October 12, 2004
Thank you both for being beside Vicky today, I know you arebursting with pride of her progress, I made you a promise and I aim to keep it.I Love you both so much and miss you terribly
Your Only #6
Daddy's Girl
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
October 07, 2004
Never Ready to Say Goodbye
We're never ready to say goodbye
To someone we hold dear.
If it were up to us, Dad & Mom,
We'd always keep you here.
But God has reasons of His own
And plans we do not know,
And these are always for our good,
Though it may seem not so.
Our arms are empty, and our hearts
Are filled with tears and grief,
For we who loved each day with you,
Now find those days too brief.
Yet if only we could heaven see,
We'd know you're happy there,
And we would never call you back
When such great joy you share.
And so we'll trust you to God's great care
And know some day, once more,
We'll hold you to our hearts again
When we reach heaven's shore.
None of us will ever get over losing you Mom & Dad & Johnny. If it iseven a slight remote possibility to visit one of us please do so. I know youare proud of each one of us and Johnny you & I had such wonderful timestogether please come visit me. I love you,
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
October 04, 2004
Dad and Mom,
It is getting harder and harder. I miss you so much. How am I supposed to goon? I kiss your picture each night and say a silent prayer. I miss talking withyou daily, so what do I do, I play your recorded voice and listen to it. Lifewas so unfare to you. Dad, we both had so many questions that we needed answered, PLEASE I am beggingyou to answer some of them, Please help me to believe and have some kind ofclosure over loosing the two most important people in my life.
Your daughter #6
eternal love to you both
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 27, 2004
DAD & MOM,
YOU SET FINE EXAMPLES AS YOU PATIENTLY TAUGHT ME YOUR LESSONS OF LIFE. YOUTAUGHT ME TO BE STRONG---STRONG ENOUGH TO COPE WITH DISSAPPOINTMENTS AND HARDTIMES AND STRONG ENOUGH TO LIVE WITH ANY WEAKNESS I MAY HAVE. YOU TAUGHT MECOURAGE---TO BE BRAVE ENOUGH TO DO WHAT I BELIEVE IS RIGHT---TO KNOW THAT FEARIS NATURAL, BUT NOT TO LET IT STOP ME FROM DOING WHAT I MUST. I THANK-YOU FORTHIS AND SO MUCH MORE FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. NO ONE KNOWS HOW MUCH I MISSYOU AND MUCH I LOVE YOU! MY HEART CRIES DAILY. LOVE ALWAYS, ROXANNE
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
September 19, 2004
I miss you both so deeply, time keeps on going and still thepain is so fresh. I have nothing but beautiful memories of you both and remember nothing but LOVEfrom you. Please know my love is always yours. Until we meet up in that big blue sky of your's, keep dancing and smiling.
Your only Debbie #6
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
September 13, 2004
A Teardrop And A Rose
I pray You'll tell my mother, Lord,
That I still love her so.
And maybe kiss her on her cheek
So that her face will glow.
Please hold her hand the way she held
My hand when I was small.
And gently whisper in her ear,
I miss her most of all.
And would you also give to her
A rose with one small tear?
And let her know that thoughts of her
Still fill my heart with cheer.
I know that You'll watch over her,
And keep her in Your care.
And when my life on earth is done,
Please let me join her there.
My love to you always Mama.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
September 02, 2004
They say time heals all wounds,
I think not!
They say in time it gets easier,
I think not!
They say you must go on,
I think not!
My life will never be the same without you both, I miss you more today thanever before.
My only comfort is knowing you are pain free and "together"
I Love you Both very much and miss you.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 27, 2004
Memories of Dad
I took a walk with you today, Dad,
In my memory.
I don't like changes, it makes me sad,
In my memory.
Almost a year; yet I still see you,
In my memory.
Sitting at the kitchen table with Mama,
After eventide's dew.
You weren't much on talking;
Guess you were a thinker.
You'd spin a yarn; I'd swallow it;
Hook, line and sinker.
Thunder, you told me, was GOD throwing a bowling ball,
Rolling down the hill.
I asked a question, you gave me an answer;
I remember it still.
You picked berries; you peeled apples,
Planted a garden every summer.
When I was a kid and had to help;
I thought it was a bummer.
Dad, you were a gentle man,
In my memory.
The only punishment I remember,
Was the threat of your big hand.
We didn't have a lot; but we had enough,
In my memory.
There was always food on the table;
Even when times were tough.
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes was our
Traditional Sunday evening meal.
Don't know what other people ate; didn't care,
Your cinnamon rolls were for real.
Most times when I would come to visit,
I would hear you say;
Who wants cinnamon rolls?,
Maybe I’ll make some today.
Many more memories waft in and out;
Some days, more than others,
I cherish each one; there is no doubt.
So do my sisters and my brother.
I'm a thinker, too, Dad,
A bit of a recluse, as well.
Some memories are good; some are sad;
The words I choose are healing; in the stories I have to tell.
Still get homesick; I want you to know,
I can't help it; you understand all too well.
Just wanted you to know; it's not what you took with you;
But what you left behind, for me.
You still keep the home fires burning, Dad;
Yes, you did that and more.
Thanks for the memories.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 25, 2004
I miss you Dad and Mom, and love you so much, some days thepain is so unbearable. You both promised if there was a way you would come tome, I am waiting PLEASE.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 25, 2004
Thank you mom
For being my mother
When I was a little girl
You kissed my tears away
And always made things better
Thank you mom
For being there for me while growing up
You tried to protect me from all that's bad
You taught me to be good and kind
You taught me how to love
Thank you mom
For the love you gave
Sometimes it was tough love
sometimes it was a gentle hand
but is was always a mothers love
Thank you mom
For being my mom
Who I know is always there for me
You taught me a lot of things along the way
You've helped me to grow
But most important
You gave me everlasting love
I love you mom
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 24, 2004
Dad there are so many times that you helped me and you werethere for me I lost count. Many years ago I dedicated a song to you and youdidn't want mom to know because you elt she would be upset. I didn't understandthen but I do now. Now I would like to share with my brother and my sisters andfriends the song that is "mine & Dad's song".
" Because You Loved Me "
~~
For all the times you stood by me
For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come true
For all the love I found in you
I'll be forever thankful for you
You're the one who held me up
Never let me fall
You're the one who saw me through
through it all
You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'cause you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me
You gave me wings and made me fly
You touched my hand I could touch the sky
I lost my faith, you gave it back to me
You said no star was out of reach
You stood by me and I stood tall
I had your love I had it all
I'm grateful for each day you gave me
Maybe I don't know that much
But I know this much is true
I was blessed because I was loved by you
You were always there for me
The tender wind that carried me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You've been my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you.
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me
" I'm Everything I Am~Because You Loved Me "
Now when I have an anxiety attack or need a shoulder or just plain need mydad's advice I can't just quick call Dad for comfort instead I do what he toldme to do when that happens, just like everything else he has taught me andshared with me. Dad thank you, thank you for being my Dad. I love you!
Your Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage grove, Minnesota
August 22, 2004
I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU ALL THREE DEARLY. ROXANNE
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
August 21, 2004
I miss you so much Mom & Dad. We all do.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 12, 2004
Dad:
Your heart of gold stopped beating,
Two wonderful eyes are at rest,
God broke our hearts
To prove to us
He takes only the best.
God knew you had to leave us,
But you did not go alone;
For part of us went with you
The day He took you home.
To some you are forgotten,
To some a part of the past,
But to those who loved and lost you,
Your memory will always last.
I love you ~ Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 12, 2004
Momma:
If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord,
please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her, I love her and I miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
I love you ~ Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 11, 2004
I find that I struggle day to day with the realization of youboth being gone. It is unbelievable just how much each of us kids depended onyou. I want to close my eyes and make believe this is just a horrible dream.But it's not. And the pain and the dread will be there forever till the end ofmy time. I love you Mom & Dad, more than you will ever know.
Your Only Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 08, 2004
Dearest Mom and Dad;
I love you both so deeply and miss you so bad. Each day is a struggle for me toto understand "Why". My love for "our" Vicky is the strongest it has ever been. Pleasehelp me to look over her and to take care of her.
eternal love
Debbie #6
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 04, 2004
Happy Birthday Grandma;
Although I did not get much time to get to know you, mommy tells me all aboutyou, she shows me pictures and tells me stories, and we dance to Elvis alot. I recognize you from pictures, even the one of you holding me when I was justhours old. Please tell Bop Pop I love him and miss him, and please take care ofhim for me. I love you,
Your little Gabby
xoxoxoxo
~
Gabby Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
August 04, 2004
Mom,
Nothing will ever be the same for me again. A part of me died the day you leftus. I am trying to be strong for my girls, as you taught me that your childrenalways come first, I am the mother I am today because of you. As hard as it iswithout dad, I am glad that you finally have him. Thank you for looking over mychildren and me all the time. I feel you around as I do dad. Please help mefind a way to get back to California soon. I have so many regrets, but the biggest one of all was moving to Alaska. I feelso isolated from my family, and you know what I am going through. When it comesdown to it family is really all that you have and all that really matters. So I hope you are dancing and laughing and smiling with all of our loved ones.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY
Your baby daughter
Lori #8
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
August 04, 2004
Happy Birthday Grandma,
I wish you were still here, you mean the world to me. You are and always willbe my favorite person I now have Elvis in my room, I know you are my guardianangel. I miss you so much and love you forever. I promise to be a good girl anddo good in life. Some times I feel lost without you.
Your little Mandy xoxoxo
~
Amanda Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
August 04, 2004
"Happy Birthday Mom"
Life goes on and yet time stands still, I miss you so deeply mom. I am tryingto be strong but you have to help me, I can't do it alone, I need to feel yourarms around me, I need to hear your smooth comforting voice, I need to see yourbeautiful smiling face, I need you! WHY? Mom WHY?
eternal love
Your only Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
August 03, 2004
Dear Mom,
Happy Birthday Mom. I wanted to share with you that all your kids are doingpretty well. I miss you terribly. I know I have asked you a million times overto forgive me. In my heart I think you have. With you & I living so farapart it was hard on special holidays, I always wanted to be with you and thefamily. You & Dad know that I tried coming out twice a year and one time itwas three times in one year. I got spoiled. I wish you were here to see yournew great grandson. Mom I love him so much. Dad’s dream did come true andStephanie is such a good mother. Tomorrow will be a pretty tough day Momma, soif you could touch each one of your children in some way tomorrow and let themknow that you hear what is in their hearts and help them with their tears.Happy Birthday Momma (August 4th).
I will always love you til time is no more!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
August 03, 2004
To us kids:
A light from our hearts is dimmed,
A voice is forever silenced.
The pain we all feel,
I can see in our eyes.
In our tears, in our voices,
And in the hurt in our whys.
But despite all the anger,
We must keep our faith alive,
For the ones we have lost,
They really did survive.
They dance across our memories,
And leave footprints in our thoughts.
And looking upon us now,
They can see you love them lots.
They may have left this world,
But they never went alone.
For in the kingdom of our hearts,
They sit upon a diamond throne.
Their spirits are now free,
And God embraced them with open arms,
They flourish in a safe place,
Where they live without worries or harms.
So let's take our time to cry,
And let our emotions run deep,
But never forget that in our hearts,
The memories we will eternally keep.
All we can do is miss them,
And be happy that they are free,
And focus on the fact,
That the future resides in you and me.
For we all have the power,
In our integrity and how we pray,
And always, always remember,
That after the darkest nights,
Rises the brightest day.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 28, 2004
For our "Johnny".....
I have such special memories of times with Johnny and I would like to sharethem. First of all I thank GOD that I spent an entire week with Johnny shortlybefore we lost him. It most definetly helped me to deal with my loss though 7years later the pain is still there. I remember when the big earthquake hitJohnny called me to tell me all about how the water from the pool flew up tothe 2nd floor and his patio door was open so everything got drenched. Iremember when we lived in Ohio and Mom & Dad left to go somewhere and hadtold Johnny to clean the back porch. I noticed he didn't do it so I quicklycleaned it for him so he wouldn't get into trouble. I remember when he pickedme up in SF from work every night to bring me home. We would race cars up anddown El Camino - - but one time he took a turn and I went flying out the door,donuts and chocolate milk flying everywhere. I'll never forget the scared lookon his face. I never ratted him out. He would call me and ask me to walk himthrough making homemade stew "Just like Mom's" he would say. Helooked forward to my calendars every year. One time when I showed up a dayearlier than Dad expected Johnny just happened to be at Mom & Dad's. When Iwalked in it was Johnny that jumped to his feet first and gave me such awonderful hug and said how good I looked. Johnny & I used to go to BarneySteele's all the time - oh how we had so much fun. I tried to help him withthis beautiful young girl that he was so in love with...her name was Char.Memories ....I have many of them such as when he was at my house with Lori andhim & I went downstairs and ended up having a potato chip fight. I justmiss him terribly. I love you Johnny. Maybe you can leave those angels alonelong enough to come visit your sister. I would like that!
Love always, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 23, 2004
You are my mother and my friend,
Which was not unusual.
Somehow our characters still blend:
Your wisdom and my will.
I turned, and you were there for me;
I spoke, you understood.
I felt cared for, but also free;
You loved, and I was good.
I'm fortunate that I was born
To someone just like you Mom;
I love you still. Though you are gone,
You live in what I do.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 21, 2004
MOMMY, DADDY, AND BROTHER,
MY HEART STILL ACHES WITH SADNESS. TEARS FLOW SILENTLY. WHAT IT MEANT TO LOSEYOU NO ONE WILL EVER KNOW. PLEASE BE WITH ME. SO VERY SADLY MISSED.....
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
July 17, 2004
Mommy,
2 longs years without your smile, your laughter, your beautiful blue eyes, your funny expressions, 2 long years without hearing your beautiful voice. I missyou so deeply. My heart has so many tears over missing you. So many wonderfulmemories mom. Life was so unfair to you, you never complained. I have comfortknowing you are finally in heaven and at peace and pain free. We will be together one day and what a joyous day that will be. I am notafraid. Thank you for my life.
Your only Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 17, 2004
hey you guys it's good to see and read all your thought'sjust thought i would drop all you a line or 2 here to let you know all mythoughts and prayers are with you all ...i know how you all feel my dad ismissed very much as well ! anyway I am off to work now and will talk at you alllater...stay strong and be good and remember they are all still with us andwatching over us for the better so god bless .........Bob.....:-)
~
Bob McClellan
|
July 15, 2004
My mothers name was Shirley Ann Lewis, God took her when shewas just sixty-six--so her life wasn't very long. She was very beautiful, andalways had a smile on her face, No one ever caught her moving at a slow pace. She was always doing somethingand moving around, I can't ever remember her ever feeling down. Her roses werered, her violets were blue, She loved her flowers, and all her children too.When we were all little, she would buy us all kinds of stuff, But we were all kids and she could never do enough. But she was always with usand we never had anything to fear, Because we all knew she was always going tobe near. Now we all have grown and have families of our own, We never thoughtthe day would come that mom would be gone. But we all know she is in Heaven watching over us all, And she is still with usif any of us shall fall. She got sick one day and needed a lot of rest, So Godtook her home now she is in Heaven with the best. She has been gone now willsoon be two years, Since the day she left us we have shed a lot of tears. Weall still miss her so much, We all still need her loving touch. We lost a lotwhen it was time for her to go away, But we still think about her every singleday.
My love for you will be through eternity, Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
July 09, 2004
My Heart will never stop crying for you both, I miss youboth so tremendously. So many tears inside of me. I try to be strong, butmissing you is so overwhelming.
PLEASE, come to me!
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
July 05, 2004
Happy "4th" of July, as you know David, Vicky andmyself spent the day together, but you were with us wern't you. As we all satwatching the beautiful colors flash in the sky you were on our minds and in ourhearts. Life will never be the same for us.
We will fight because you taught us how to do that, and we will survive. I Loveyou both
your only Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 30, 2004
God only knows how much I miss you. My life hurts withoutyou in it. You would be so proud of me, I am not afraid like before, I knowthat when it is my time I get to be with you. Oh what a happy day that will be.Keep dancing, and please "keep" visiting me in my dreams.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 24, 2004
You are forever in your children's hearts and always on ourminds. We love and miss you all so much.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 20, 2004
DAD ,THIS WILL PROBABLY BE THE MOST DIFFICULT FATHERS DAYTHAT I HAVE HAD TO ENDORE.I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES AND THE BADTIMES WE HAD TOGETHER,BECUASE EVEN THOUGH SOME WERE GOOD AND SOME WERE BAD ITWAS TIME WE HAD TOGETHER,AND I THANK GOD WE HAD A SECOND CHANCE IN LIFE WITHEACH OTHER.YOU HAVE TAUGHT WE THE TOUGHEST LESSEN IN LIFE AND THAT IS VALUE OFTIME WITH MY MY FAMILY.THIS FATHERS DAY I DONT WANT GIFTS I WANT TO CHERISHEVERY MOMENT THAT I HAVE WITH MY CHILDREN.TIME WITH MELISSA,CHELSEA AND ADAM ISTHE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN THE WORLD TO ME.WITH OUT SAYING A WORD TO THEM THEYALL FEEL MY PAIN AND I KNOW AT THE SAME TIME THEY ALL FEEL MY LOVE.WITH THIERHELP I KNOW I WILL BE OK .AND I WILL TRY TO BE THE BEST DAD THAT I CAN FOR THEM.I WILL ALWAYS WALK IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS AND WILL ALWAYS BE PROUD TO DO SO,I LOVEYOU AND WILL BE WITH YOU SOME DAY UNTIL THEN I WILL HIND MY PAIN AND BE THEBETTER MAN AND FATHER.AND ONLY HOPE THAT MY CHILDREN LOVE ME LIKE YOUR CHILDRENLOVE YOU. FROM DAVID WAYNE LEWIS. I AM SO PROUD TO CARRY THE LEWIS NAME.THANKYOU FOR BEING MY FATHER. YOUR DUKE #7
~
DAVID LEWIS,
AMERICAN CANYON, California
June 18, 2004
**Happy Fathers Day Daddy**
My heart is broken into a billion pieces over loosing you. Be free daddy. Nomore pain ever. I miss you so deeply.
All My Love
Daddy's Girl
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
June 18, 2004
As I ponder the love that I saw in his eyes, A Godly love,given without compromise.... I recall many times that he stood by my side, Andprodded me on with great vigor and pride. His voice ever confident, firm andyet fair, Always speaking with patience, tenderness and care. The power andmight of his hands was so sure, I knew there was nothing we couldn't endure.It's true, a few others provided insight, Yet, he laid the foundation that keptme upright. He's the grandest of men to have lived on this earth. He's a man ofgreat dignity, honor and strength. His merits are noble, and of admirablelength. He's far greater than all other men that I know, He's my Dad, he's mymentor, my friend and hero.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 17, 2004
"Dad, Thank You."
Thank you for the laughter, For the good times that we shared, Thanks foralways listening, For trying to be fair.
Thank you for your comfort, When things were going bad,Thank you for theshoulder, To cry on when I was sad.
This poem is a reminder that all my life through, I'll always be thankingHeaven for a Special Dad like you."
I love you with all my heart and soul. Happy Father's Day Dad!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
June 11, 2004
Well dad, I am off to my first fishing experience. I learnedhow to string up my own line and this will be the first time I have to bait myown hook. I found some gloves that have rubber painted on the outside of thefinger's, so I dont have to touch those icky worms. I'm hoping for trout butsalmon is running heavy. Doesn't matter what I catch because I will be thinkingof you while you are sitting on my right with Johnny to the left, Dont worrydad mom is making her potato salad for when were all done. I miss you all somuch and love you. Please guide me in the right direction for myself and mybabies and please send a rainbow trout my way.
Your baby daughter
Lori #8
p.s. I am teaching Amanda everything you taught me when it comes to fishing.
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
June 11, 2004
Dad your dream about you & Mom handing someone a newbornson came true on June 10th at 1:22am. Stephanie & Chad have named him:Tyler Joseph-John Hanson. He is beautiful. On the 9th just before all of usheaded to the hospital at 5:ooam while rainy and gloomy I seen your sign (4 slowflashes of light from 1 of our 4 solar lights sitting around my memory garden)Mom & Dad that you would be with us for this birth. Thank you for the sign.Thank you for being there with all of us.I looked around for you when Tyler wasborn but I think you must have been with the Neo-Natal team with Tyler. I loveyou and please be with him always.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 31, 2004
TODAY IS ANOTHER VERY SAD DAY FOR US. MOM AND DAD, PLEASE BETHERE FOR JOHNNY. I KNOW HE WILL BE HAPPY TO SEE BEAR AND TO KNOW THAT HE ISNOT IN PAIN AND THAT HE HAD A GREAT LIFE. WE LOVE BEAR SO MUCH AND I KNOW HOWMUCH JOHNNY LOVES HIM. BEAR WENT TO HEAVEN AT 8:59 AM TODAY 5/31/04. HE HAD AVERY GOOD LIFE AND EVERYONE LOVED HIM. HE HAD A TENNIS BALL LAYING AGAINST HISCHIN WHEN HE LEFT US AND MY WHOLE FAMILY WAS ABLE TO HUG HIM AND KISS HIM ANDTELL HIM HOW MUCH HE WAS LOVED. HE LIVED A VERY FULL 15 YEARS AND SHOWEDNOTHING BUT LOVE TO EVERYONE AND HE ALSO LOVED HIS CAT SNICKERS. WE KNOW THATBEAR IS WITH ALL OF YOU AND HE WILL ALWAYS BE LOVED AND WILL NEVER BEFORGOTTEN. WE ALL LOVE YOU AND ALWAYS THINK OF YOU MOM, DAD AND MY BIG BROTHERJOHN H LEWIS, II. With all the love we have for all of you, The Lewis Family.
~
David Lewis,
American Canyon, California
May 28, 2004
Mom & Dad please help to guide your girls. I can't speakfor the others but I am asking you to help guide me and help me to understand.I want to do right. I will be waiting. Love always, Your Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 27, 2004
Thank you for being here with me, you knew that I needed youand you came. I'm sorry for the tears. I love you both so much, and miss you.you raised me RIGHT. and I know you are proud. Please help me through this.....
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 20, 2004
May 18th at 7:30PM I took Boomer outside and while standingthere and enjoying the beautiful evening I looked up toward the sky. My eyes immediatelycaught the one & only star which seemed to be directly over our house. Forsome reason I started saying the poem..."Star Light, Star Bright"Iwish I may I wish I might have the wish I wish tonight. I said a wish: for Mom& Dad to please come to me in my dreams tonight. That's all I wanted. Wellthe next morning I woke up and I swear that Mom & Dad DID come to me in mydreams. I had such an immense feeling that they were with me all night. BUT...Ican not put my finger on anything particular about the dream. I just wanted toshare this with everyone. Thank you Mom & Dad for honoring my wish. I loveyou always & forever!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 18, 2004
"ALWAYS MISSING YOU" I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH AND IWILL WAIT FOREVER IF I HAVE TO. PLEASE, PLEASE TRY TO KEEP YOUR PROMISE TO ME.
#6
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 10, 2004
In tears we saw you sinking,
And watched you pass away.
Our hearts were almost broken,
We wanted you to stay.
But when we saw you sleeping,
So peaceful, free from pain,
How could we wish you back with us,
To suffer that again.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone,
For part of us went with you,
The day God took you home.
If Roses grow in Heaven,
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Don't think of her as gone away
Her journey's just begun
Life holds so many facets
This earth is only one
Just think of her as resting
From the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days and years
Think how she must be wishing
That we could know, today
Now nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away
And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost
And she is loved so very much
Happy Mother’s Day Mama
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
May 09, 2004
Happy Mother's day Mommy
I miss you so much and love you so deeply. I am trying Mom, please help me.Please stay with me and help me.
The girls miss you and Gabby asks for pop pop all the time. Until it is ourtime all my love Your baby daughter Lori
~
Lori Rangel,
Anchorage, Alaska
May 09, 2004
"HAPPY MOTHERS DAY MOM"
I love you and miss you so terribly. It is not getting easier it is way harder.I long to see your smile and hear your laughter, I miss your hugs and long tofeel your arms wrapped around me. I miss your voice and long to see yourbeautiful face. Life was unfair to you mom. I am so sorry for all of your painin your life. I am trying to understand WHY! This world is such a sadder placenow. Thank you for giving me such a beautiful family to have. Without you momit would not be. We love each other and one day will all be together, by nowyou probably have our house all picked out for us for one day mom we will betogether. Please kiss daddy for me and Johnny.
So much love to you.
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 02, 2004
TO MY MOTHER AND FATHER I LOVE YOU AND WILL ALWAYS CARRY THEPAIN OF LOSING YOU I HAVE A HARD TIME TALKING ABOUT MY FEELINGS ,I WISH I COULDHAVE DONE MORE FOR YOU BOTH AND WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT NO MAN ALIVE WILL HONORHIS NAME AS MUCH AS I DO.MOM THANK YOU FOR SHOWING ME HOW TO LOVE AND DAD THANKYOU FOR SHOWING ME HOW TO BE A LEADER YOU WILL BOTH ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AND THE LOVE I HAVE FOR YOU WILL NEVER BE LOST .YOUR SON DAVID WAYNE LEWIS THE(DUKE)
~
david lewis,
american canyon, California
May 01, 2004
HAPPY 51st ANNIVERSRY Dad and Mom
God only knows how much you are missed. The pain will never go away, I miss youmore and more each day. Some days are harder then others. But you gave us sucha warm beautiful family so that we would never be alone. We are helping eachother. We are standing by each other and loving each other. I dream of you allthe time and I can't make sense of them. I have such warm loving memories ofyou both. I miss you both something awful. My comfort is that you are togetherand I know that this makes you happy. No more pain or hurting EVER! Thiscomforts your children but will never ease our pain over loosing you both. I am waiting! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox oxoxoxoxox
All My Love Debbie
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
May 01, 2004
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. Words can not express howmuch you are both missed and loved. I wish we could turn the clock back. I loveyou always.
Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 26, 2004
"HOW GREAT THOU ART"
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 24, 2004
I find myself listening to the song that you dedicated to meover and over each day "Daddy's Girl" I will never forget the day youhanded me the tape and I listened to it as you sat and watched my expression atthe kitchen table. We were both crying, as you told me you meant every singleword, and that the song was written especially for me from you. You saideverything you ever wanted me to know about your feelings were in that song. Iwas never given anything in my life dad that meant more to me than that songfrom you. I miss our talks and I miss your laugh, I miss your smile and thosebeautiful blue eyes of yours. I miss you so desperately dad. Life will never bethe same. Are you finally happy dad? PLease let me know, Please come to me. Ilove you for eternity and I hope someday we will be together. ALL MY LOVE,Daddy's Girl
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
April 16, 2004
Happy Birthday Johnny. Oh how I wish I could see you again.I have such wonderful special times that you & I shared that will stay withme forever. Times we shared racing your cars, dancing at Barney Steele's, yourparties and the last time I visited you at your home. Times you called me toask how to tell if your soup was ready to eat, the time you had severe stormsand you slept right through it, the time you called me when an earth quake hitand times we 'just talked'. Times you were at my house in Minnesota and we hadhad a chip throwing party. What a mess. Times we drove to Iowa you & I. Iso miss you Johnny. I love you with my heart and soul. Your loving sister -Weenie.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 12, 2004
GOOD MORNING ALL MY SISTERS, I LOVE YOU AND WANTED TO TELLYOU THAT IVE BEEN WEARING DADS AFTER SHAVE FOR THE PAST WEEK AND I TALK ABOUTEVERY DAY AT WORK. IVE HAD NO DREAMS BUT SOMETIMES HAVE A HARD TIME AT WORK WHENI PICK UP A TOOL THAT HE GAVE ME.WHEN MY FELLOW EMPLOYEES TALK ABOUT WHAT AGREAT MECHANIC I AM I ALWAYS SAY MY FATHER TAUGHT ME FROM THE TIME I WAS 6YEARS OLD AND ALSO TELL THEM THAT HE WAS THE BEST THERE EVER WAS ,AND THAT IMFOLLOWING IN HIS FOOT STEPS.ON MY WAY TO WORK I STILL GRAB MY PHONE AND WANT TOCALL HIM AS I DID EVERY MORNING.I HOPE YOU ALL DONT HAVE THE PROBLEMS THAT I DO .IKNOW EVERY ONE LOVES MOM AND DAD AND MISS THEM. PLEASE TRY TO THINK OF ALL THEGOOD TIMES WE HAD WITH OUR PARENTS AND ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT I LOVE YOU ALL AND IMSORRY I DONT TELL YOU ALL MORE OFTEN!
~
David Wayne Lewis,
American Canyon, California
April 11, 2004
"HAPPY EASTER" they say it gets easier, I beg todiffer, it is only getting harder. I reach for the phone every day to call youand tell you things, I find myself talking to you, but you dont answer back.God how I miss you both. We are all sticking together and I am keeping mypromise. All day long on your birthday they played your songs(I'm gonna loveyou forever and ever, and remember when) everytime I turned around, so I knowyou were with me. Thank You! Until we meet please watch over us all. All mylove FOREVER Daddy's Girl
~
Debbie schletter,
Belmont, California
April 09, 2004
Happy birthday Dad. All your children miss you so bad.Keeping dancing with our Mama! We love you both so dearly and we will alwaystreasure your memory so much!
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
April 01, 2004
MOM*DAD*JOHNNY
THANK-YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING WITH ME. I MISS YOU EACH TERRIBLY AND LOVE YOUDEARLY. LOVE ROXANNE
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
February 25, 2004
THEIR LOVE LIVES ON
THOSE WE LOVE ARE REALLY NEVER GONE TO US, WE FEEL THEM IN SO MANY WAYS.THROUGH FRIENDS THEY CARED ABOUT AND DREAMS THEY LEFT BEHIND, IN BEAUTY THATTHEY ADDED TO OUR DAYS. IN WORDS OF WISDOM WE WILL ALWAYS CARRY WITH US ANDMEMORIES THAT WILL NEVER BE GONE. THOSE WE LOVE ARE NEVER GONE TO US, FOR THEIRSPECIAL LOVE LIVES ON. SADLY MISSED AND LOVED. ROXANNE
~
Roxanne Baylor,
Byrdstown, Tennessee
February 22, 2004
The Broken Chain...
We little knew that morning that God was going to call your name. In life weloved you dearly, In death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, youdid not go alone; for part of us went with you the day God called you home. Youleft us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide; and though we cannotsee you, you are both always at our side. Our family chain is broken, andnothing seems the same; but as God calls us one by one, the Chain will linkagain.
~
Victoria Guadamuz/Lewis,
Modesto, California
February 19, 2004
I miss you both so terribly, I will never get over the emptyfeeling in my heart. Do you "remember when" I do! I love you both andI am waiting. All my Love
~
Daddy's Girl,
Belmont, California
February 12, 2004
Mom * Dad * Johnny: We all love you and we pray that youeach help us to heal from our loss. One day we will all be together again butuntil then please visit us in our dreams. Let us see you. We all have momentsthat we cherish that will last us a lifetime. Love always, Your Carlene
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
February 09, 2004
I miss you mommy and daddy, I hope you are dancing!
XOXOXOXO
~
Debbie Schletter,
Belmont, California
January 26, 2004
We all miss so much!
Love you Grandma and Grandpa
The Chamberlains
~
Michael Chamberlain,
St. Paul, Minnesota
January 21, 2004
My deepest heartfelt sorrow to the entire Lewis family. Ididn't get to know your mom as well as I did your dad but I do know that theirlove of family was vast. I will miss the phone calls from "papaLewis" and the jokes that he used to tell me that even hours later wouldmake me laugh. I am honored to say I knew them and will miss them.
~
Monica Dubuque,
San Leandro, California
January 20, 2004
To The most sweetest people I know. John and Shirley Lewis,I'll always remember the good times we had at Denny's.(Biscuits and Gravy) Youalways brightened my day, when you can in. Rest In the arms of God.
~
Kathy Barraclough,
Ceres, California
December 28, 2003
John and Shirley, I have never seen a family so devoted as yours. The love that extends to you from your children is an awesome wonder because the love is times eight. We all love and miss you terribly.
Melissa, Adam and Chelsea Lewis
American Canyon, California
December 22, 2003
Grandpa & Grandma,
We miss you so much, I got 8 wonderful years with my Grandma who told me all about Elvis and I love him like she does, I also got 9 years with my Grandpa and he showed me so much love, and don't worry I DO BELIEVE IN SANTA , your Grandaughters Manna & Gabby
Manna & Gabby Rangel,
Modesto, California
December 18, 2003
Dad and Mom,
I will be strong for you both. I Love you both and we will be together all of us one day.
All my Love, your Baby #8 and grand daughters Amanda and Gabby
~
Lori Rangel,
Modesto, California
December 18, 2003
We are all sticking together dad and mom as you can see. We all miss you so deeply. We love you and miss you something terribly. Please kiss Johnny for us and know that we all love you. Christmas will be tough for us but we know you will always be with us. Dad, Mom keep dancing!
all our love, your Children
~
Daddy's Girl Lewis-Schletter,
Belmont, California
~
December 08, 2003
John and Shirley were loved by everyone and will missed always. They accepted me as one of their own grandchildren and I will always remember that. They also brought 8 wonderful people into this world who have passed on their love, and who have had nothing but open arms, especially when it was needed the most. I will always remember the laughs and the love. I will always miss you and love you.
Love: Andrea Marshall
~
Andrea Marshall,
San Bruno, California
December 05, 2003
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to all of John and Shirley's beautiful creations! You are all products of a beautiful love that at last is eternal. May your hearts find solice in their eternal bliss!
May God bless you and keep you in his light.
~
Nina Nieves,
Hayward, California
We love you and miss you both.
~
Helen Shank,
Hawaii
December 05, 2003
John was more of a father to me in some ways than my own father was and I loved him like my own father, Shirley also held a place in my hart I will miss them both.
~
Andy Shank-lewis,
Ceres, California
Personally knowing the two of them I will deeply miss them as if they were my own family, as I know the family misses them just as much. You all will be in my prayers as well god bless....... :O)
~
Bob McClellan
December 05, 2003
I am so grateful to have met my uncle for the first time. The boys and I have all of you in our prayers and hope to continue to get to know all of your family better. God Bless
Love Sharon, Brandon, & Steven
~
Sharon and boys Brandon and Steven Palladino,
Boulder Creek, California
The only comfort that I have is you both are together, "FOREVER" my heart aches for you both. Thank you for giving me such a loving family. Until we meet again. you have nothing but my heart, soul and eternal love.
~
Daddy's Girl Lewis-Schletter,
Belmont, California
December 01, 2003
Mom and Dad, although you are both together now and forever, you will be greatly missed and forever loved. I am so honered to have been able to stay with you and help you both. I will stay strong and do my best to keep all your children together until we can go to be with you. I will try to make you proud in the future. My heart is with you and Johnny.
All My Love, #5
Victoria Ann
~
Victoria Guadamuz,
Modesto, California
December 01, 2003
The comfort of knowing that my parents are together is so overwhelming. They both will be missed and loved.
~
Carlene Orloff,
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
