In Memory of Ruth Bernard

My mother-in-law Ruth passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 16, 2007. While she had been diagnosed with leukemia last year, she had undergone treatment and had made it through the initial period of time after diagnosis.

On Saturday, she told her husband Joe (Cheryl's Dad) that she wasn't feeling well. Joe took Ruth to the hospital and she passed away that morning.

Ruth always had a kind word and a smile for everyone in her life. She was also tough, much tougher than I would probably be, given the same circumstances. I think she would like to be remembered as a mother and grandmother who loved her family more than anything in the world.

Here is the text of the last e-mail she sent to us, on May 29, 2007. It is particularly moving, considering the short time she had left with us after she sent the e-mail out.

"Let's see if you read your mail.

What would you do if every time you wanted someone they would never be there?

What would you do if for every moment you were truly happy there would be 10 moments of sadness?

What would you do if your best friend died tomorrow and you never got to tell them how you felt?

So, I just wanted to say, even if I never talk to you again in my life, you are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.

I look up to you, respect you, and truly cherish you.

Send this to all your friends, no matter how often you talk, or how close you are, and send it to the person who sent it to you.

Let old friends know you haven't forgotten them, and tell new friends you never will.

Remember, everyone needs a friend, someday you might feel like you have NO FRIENDS at all, just remember this e-mail and take comfort in knowing that somebody out there cares about you and always will.

In times of trouble,
In times of need,
If you are feeling SAD,
You can count on me.

I will give you a wink,
Until you smile,
Give you are hug,
And stand by your side.

I'll be there for you till the end,
I'll always and forever, be your friend!"

We love you and we miss you, Ruth.