My lasting memories of Joe are how he always made me feel--so cared for, appreciated and loved. Every time I would come over to the house or drive up to the lake, I would hear a BIG resounding HI SHARON--with a radiant, welcoming smile and a delivery filled with exuberance. I could shout out loudly and clearly across the beaches and the entirety of Lake Michgan how much I loved your parents -- they exemplified for me what loving meant. I loved they had a coffee pot in their bedroom to begin the day together. I hear your mother's enthusiastic FAR OUT! It is almost impossible to think of your father without thinking of your mom and both of them together--so passionate, so filled with the awe of life, so connected to their land in Pentwater. As I wrote to you two, Mary Jo and Karen privately, I do not really believe in the afterlife, yet that being said, I am convinced that your mom and dad are reunited, as strongly and passionately in love in flesh and blood as they now are in spirit. It comforts me to imagine them together, sharing their extraordinary connection through time and space, endlessly. Such spirits, death can not take from us as they will live on, through time and space, and in the sites that they loved so, that they created in making the Larson family, that was extended so beautifully to include precious Ian, Seth, Elizabeth and Jordan. What comforts me too--if I ever get back to the lake, I will have a lovely conversation with Rene and Joe, describing the beauty of their homestead, and how the communion of family and friends at the table with a bounty of food continues on with them ever present in mind and body. How their cherished land is honored by family and friends and how grateful we are for the beautiful world of love and life that they cultivated through their example of joyousness. With love and gratitude for all the Larsons, Paysons and Bizers! My thoughts are with you all as you grieve this inconsolable, untimely loss, unfair loss (yes, death will claim us all, but it comes as a surprise) again, during the holiday season. Thank you all for allowing me to be a part of your incredible, loving family! I honor you all and beloved Joe Larson--89 years young.