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Linda Joyce
Beck’s Guestbook
Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Dec 30, 2015
at 2:17:01 PM
|
Well, Linda, I got through
another year without you not much fun at times, but I'm still here,
plugging away. Working to rid the world of ovarian cancer keeps me going. I
think I can manage 2016, with the same game plan. I sure do miss you. Myrl
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Myrl
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by Anonymous on May 21, 2015
at 2:18:05 PM
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Tomorrow you will have been gone
for four years. I miss you constantly, and so do your many, many friends.
It was a rotten piece of luck that took you so early. Ovarian cancer must
be solved, and soon!
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Mar 18, 2015
at 7:08:29 PM
|
Tomorrow is our 33rd
anniversary, Linda. I will be going to a class, giving a lecture, then
going to a party, so I will be busy. But not nearly so busy as to let me
forget how much I miss you. Thanks for those great years. There should have
been more.
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Carolyn Joyce
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by Anonymous on Dec 31, 2014
at 10:01:52 PM
|
It is almost 2015 and that is
another year without you, Linda. Since you are not here to counsel me, I
reach backwards to the many wise things you told me. Mostly, I just hold
your love in my heart. I miss you always.
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Carolyn
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by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2014
at 10:15:36 PM
|
On these special Linda days,
she's right back to being the main thought. So I look at family pictures,
pet the alpaca bear she gave me, read cards from her, and eat a bowl of
caramel ice cream. The grief is shifting in shape, but it will never end. I
miss her so much. What a wonderful sister I had.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Aug 29, 2014
at 7:18:48 PM
|
Well, Linda, tomorrow is your
69th birthday. Boy, would you ever have received some funny cards! We all
dearly wish you were still here with us, so we could enjoy the day
together. I'm going to take Florence out for a margarita and a meal, I
hope. I wish Carolyn could be here, too. We all love you.
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Myrl Beck
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by Myrl Beck on Mar 19, 2014
at 3:05:18 PM
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Today is our 32nd anniversary,
Linda. Wish you were here to enjoy it with me.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Feb 14, 2014
at 12:37:23 PM
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Happy Valentine's Day, Linda. I
wish I could take you out to dinner. Love, always. Myrl
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Carolyn
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by Anonymous on Jan 2, 2014 at
7:04:02 PM
|
I'm still sad, still missing
her, always remembering times together, always wanting to tell her
something. December is especailly hard with both my birthday and Christmas.
But when I still my mind and dig deep, I find the support and warmth that
my big sister always gave me. That is when I know she is still with me.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Dec 13, 2013
at 6:18:48 PM
|
Well, Linda, I'm gearing up for
my third winter without you. It's not as much fun as formerly, but I know
you would want me to enjoy it - so I am. I am going to Alaska to meet the
great grandkids. We all wish you could be there with me;I doubt if we could
get you to set those babies down! I had a great Thanksgiving with Carolyn,
too, so I am keeping busy. Love you. Miss you. Myrl
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Angelina Kelly
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by Anonymous on Sep 3, 2013 at
7:49:58 PM
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What beautiful words about
Grandma Linda. I miss her caring love for her family and passion for life
every day, and it is so wonderful to see her memory have such a positive
impact.
Love you Grandma,
Angie
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Carolyn
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by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2013
at 7:18:20 PM
|
Dearest Sister, I wish you were
here so we could laugh and celebrate together. I'm so lucky we are sisters.
I have many wonderful memories to warm my heart, but I miss you always.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2013
at 12:10:26 PM
|
As has so often been the case
over the last few years, Carolyn has shown me how to think. Today is
Linda's 68th birthday, and I was prepared to spend the day feeling sorry
for myself, missing her, and hating cancer for having taken her away from
me. . But Carolyn writes that, on her part, she is sad that cancer took her
sister and that she can't telephone her and wish her a happy birthday and
have a nice, long chat - and then she adds that she will instead spend the
day looking back on and enjoying all the happy moments, of which there were
so many. I will try to do that, too but I do miss her, and her absence
hurts. Linda, so many people loved you while you were alive. And we all
still do.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on May 21, 2013
at 2:49:34 PM
|
Hi, Sweetie. Tomorrow you will
have been gone for two years. I'm sure that nobody who knew you well has
forgotten that. When you think of it, it is remarkable how much you meant
to so very many people. Whatever it was in you that made that true, I wish
more of us had it, too; if we did, the world would be a much nicer place. I
promise to keep on working as best I can to make sure that future women
don't have to go through what you went through. Tomorrow will be a sad day
for me, and for so
many others, too. I miss you every day. Myrl
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Carolyn
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by Anonymous on May 5, 2013 at
3:52:58 PM
|
My dear sweet Linda, it is
amazing what Myrl is doing in your honor. As I write this, he is surrounded
by family and friends as they celebrate his 80th birthday. We all wish you
were with him, but you are in everyone's heart. And a big Happy Birthday to
you, Myrl!
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on May 2, 2013 at
4:18:19 PM
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Hi, Linda: St. Joes has opened a
new cancer center; I plan to volunteer there when I get too old to traipse
down to Fred Hutch. I visited it today; it has just opened and is splendid.
I subscribed to a memorial stone. It says "Linda & Myrl, . March
19, 1982" - and then at the bottom, "Always". It sits next
to a beautiful maple tree. It is lovely. That makes the third stone to our
marriage scattered around Bellingham; I will visit them all for as long as
I can. The family
is throwing me a big birthday party, for my 80th. We all wish you could be
there, especially me. I love you. Myrl
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Dec 24, 2012
at 1:56:05 PM
|
Linda was the absolute heart and
soul of Christmas. She loved buying gifts. She loved decorating the house.
She loved her little Christmas trees, and all her little decoration. Above
all, she loved having her family around her to celebrate what, to her, was
the best season of the year. Having spent 30 Christmases with Linda I find
Christmases since to be wan and washed-out affairs. I'm not complaining,
mind you I had her for a long time, which makes me a lucky guy. But I wish
she were still here
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Carolyn Joyce
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by Anonymous on Dec 21, 2012
at 8:31:15 PM
|
This site is a place of
hope--hope that future women will not have to die from ovarian cancer. For
all those that have lost loved ones, have hope that the future can still be
bright as you hold your loved one in your heart. I miss you, Linda, at
Christmas time and every other time.
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Kristen Beck
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by Anonymous on Dec 18, 2012
at 8:47:15 PM
|
Merry Christmas to dad, to
Linda, and to all her friends and family. Christmas was always especially
fun because of Linda, and it feels like something is definitely missing
without her there. She loved Christmas, and she will be there with us in
spirit.
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Karen Beck
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by Anonymous on Dec 18, 2012
at 8:37:56 AM
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Merry Christmas Linda! You're
getting all the presents this year. Wish you were here....
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David & Bunny
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by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2012
at 12:17:20 PM
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When you think of all the lives
Linda touched, not just family & friends, but professionally - now
THAT's the way to make a difference in this world. Linda had a warm embrace
for everyone. I miss those hugs. Well done, Linda!
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Karen Beck
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by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2012
at 8:36:47 AM
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Happy Birthday Linda! Although I
thought it was today. I miss talking to you about fun stuff like movies and
celebrities. Also being inspired by your strength.
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Myrl Beck
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by Anonymous on Aug 29, 2012
at 7:05:06 PM
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Linda, this is your 67th
birthday. We all miss you very much. I hope you know that those of still
here are working to do something about ovarian cancer. It promises to be a
long, hard slog, but in the end we will succeed. I love you. Myrl
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Richard Joyce
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by Anonymous on Apr 9, 2012 at
11:33:11 AM
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I just caught up on reading
these comments and also Myrl's blog. It's sad, of course, to think about
losing Linda, but good to be reminded of all the nice things about her and
good to see that others appreciated, and remember, these nice things too.
And it's good to see that Myrl is helping to combat the disease that took
her from us. Raelyn and I send our best wishes to all the "Linda
Community!"
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Rebecca Joyce
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by Anonymous on Mar 23, 2012
at 1:18:56 PM
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Uncle Myrl,
I enjoyed the description of how you and Aunt Linda celebrated your
anniversary - I had no idea you had those special traditions. I will keep
that in mind so that Scott and I can work on some traditions of our own. I
know I will probably never get Scott to watch our wedding video again (we
did that on our first anniversary) but I think berries and whipped cream
belong in our breakfast on July 1. Photos, too. Love and commitment really
deserve celebration.
Thinking of you and Aunt Linda!
Love,
Becca
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David & Bunny
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by David Schneider on Mar 20,
2012 at 6:45:48 PM
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Myrl, as you are paging through
your beautiful wedding album, reminiscing about this special day, just
remember that many of those anniversdary pictures were taken by David at
our house.
The Becks' would knock on our door, dressed to the nines, grinning from ear
to ear, camera in hand. They'd pose for a few pictures, grab the camera and
go! Handly a chance to wish them Happy Anniversary before they were out the
door, off to some romatic evening. It was fun for us to see these two
lovebirds behaving
like teenagers! Happy days.
I imagine Linda giving Myrl a special embrace today on their 30th wedding
anniversay.
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Nora May Fishbach
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by Anonymous on Mar 19, 2012
at 10:43:25 PM
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Dear Linda,
You are often in my thoughts - Myrl and Carolyn are too.
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Linda Kelly
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by Linda Kelly on Mar 19, 2012
at 10:34:51 PM
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Happy Anniversary Dad and Linda.
I wish you were together to celebrate. 30 years is a long time, but so is
29. I think of Linda often and even though I did not get to see her often,
I liked thinking of her keeping Dad company and hearing about their many
adventures and new hobbies (gourd painting!).
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Karen Beck
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by Anonymous on Mar 19, 2012
at 9:22:51 PM
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Happy Anniversary Dad and Linda.
You had a great time together. I wish it could have gone on another 30
years. You will be together again someday.
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Ginny Davidson
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by Anonymous on Mar 19, 2012
at 7:30:16 PM
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Happy Anniversary Myrl and
Linda, What a smart day to pick for your wedding, the day before spring
starts, the beginning of a lovely season after the cold dark days of winter.
I am thinking of the two of you and wishing Linda was here to help Myrl
feel better. Always remember she IS here and she is smiling.
Love, Ginny Davidson
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Myrl Beck
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by Myrl Beck on Mar 19, 2012
at 2:23:00 PM
|
This is our 30th wedding
anniversary. Normally we would get up a bit late, eat a special breakfast,
featuring berries and whipping cream (prepared by me; I was destined to be
a short-order cook but missed my calling.) Then we probably would have gone
for a walk (if the weather were nice, as it is today) or to a movie (if it
were as it has been most of this month.) Later we would have dressed up and
gone out for a blow-out dinner, with photographs. Later that evening we
would have given one another cards and gifts, snuggled on the couch while
looking through our wedding book, then gone to bed. That is a typical
anniversary.
Well, drat it, that is not what will happen today. I got up late, alright,
and ate my greasy breakfast. Then I sat down to write this little essay. Later
I will take some flowers out to Linda, and talk to her awhile. I plan to
have a nice meal tonight, but I am not getting dressed up. I may watch a
movie, and I certainly will leaf through our wedding book. I definitely
will be in bed early.
This is shaping up to be a rotten day. Sometimes I miss Linda so much that
it simply sucks all the energy out of me, and all I want to do is sit in a
chair and look at my toes. I have ugly toes.
This
being our 30th, the appropriate stone is the pearl. Linda didn't like
pearls, but if I had bought her some she would have seemed delighted, tried
them on, examined herself in the mirror, and smiled her lovely smile. The
the pearls would have joined the things I brough her from Chile long ago,
in a box mentally labled Well-intentioned Mistakes. So, it is a good thing
I did not buy pearls. I will give the money to Fred Hutch, instead.
Many of you know that I am trying to fight back against cancer by
volunteering at the Hutch. I am of vanishingly little use, I am afraid, but
I am trying. I am beginning to write a blog about my experiences, and if
would like to follow my adventures merely type
WWW.LJB-QUILTCUTIE.BLOGSPOT.COM in your search engine.
Okay, enough of feeling sorry for myself. Linda was a wonderful wife, and
she was MY wife for nearly 30 years. I am a lucky guy, and I should nevER
complain. But I sure Wish she were still here.
|
Carolyn Joyce
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by Anonymous on Jan 14, 2012
at 4:57:22 PM
|
Linda and I loved giving each
other Christmas presents and I missed that and miss her. I kept seeing
things that she would have liked. Maybe this little gift to Fred Hutchinson
will help someone else's sister who is battling ovarian cancer. I hope so.
Carolyn
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Carolyn Joyce
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by Anonymous on Jan 14, 2012
at 4:49:50 PM
|
My very dear friends, Linda and
Norm Dennis, from Tucson were sweet enough to make a donation. They were
the last of my friends to see Linda. The summer before she died, Myrl,
Linda, and I drove to Seattle to see them off on their Alaskan cruise. Good
memories, good friends. Carolyn
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Ann Bjorseth
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by Anonymous on Nov 27, 2011
at 12:35:09 PM
|
I heard the news this week
(November 23, 2011) and I feel incredibly sad; such a loss.
I've been thinking about her, remembering things. Amazing what gets stored
away about important people! I met her in, I think, 1976, at Whatcom
Community College. I recognized her as a kindred spirit, and we had
wonderful times together, going to movies and hanging out. Once, we figured
out a way to see five movies in one day. Another time, we saw the first
Rocky movie three times in a row, loving the opening music and enjoying
every moment. Another time, we saw all three performances of the Twyla
Tharp dance company in Seattle. We had a contest every year to guess the
winners at the Oscars; of course, she won every time. And, as Myrl said,
she remembered--and she cared about--the movies in a way that was unique
and always fun.
Linda was creative, funny, compassionate, smart, tenacious, and willing.
Beautiful, truly. She made a special contribution to my life, as I can see
that she did for so many people on this site.
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Carolyn Joyce
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by Anonymous on Sep 12, 2011
at 10:15:46 PM
|
Dear Linda,
I had a yard sale to sell your beautiful quilt fabric and we made $925 for
the fight against ovarian cancer! Wow--the good from you just keeps
spreading. Think of all the dozens of quilts your fabric will now be a part
of. Myrl was in Eureka for the event and we both loved watching the
excitement of quilters buying your gorgeous fabric. My friend Martha was a
tremendous help with the sale as were others who donated things. I couldn't
let all the fabric go, and fell in love with many of the pieces,
so now I have my own stash of your fabric and one of these days I'll make a
quilt in your honor. I miss you so much. Love, Carolyn
|
Amanda Wiese
|
by Anonymous on Sep 7, 2011 at
12:00:07 PM
|
I posted this on the LHH site on
Linda's birthday after I could not seem to get it to work on my home
computer. Kristen suggested I move it here.
Linda,
If you come to my home today, the first thing you will notice is the under
construction, hydro-seeded area deemed the lawn. Orange tape and all, it is
simply unimpressive. Take a step up to the concrete pad and you will see a
triangular flower box perched in the corner. It is mine and the only one
like it on the block, and this is because my crafty husband built it for
me. It is filled with petunias that have been drenched and yellowed, but
some of their vibrancy still shines through. The view is brighter if you
look up. Pansies and geraniums spill over the rail of the deck, as if they
are looking down. Full of color, they watch quite approvingly.
You
might see a cat there too, wearing the intent stare of all cats, whiskers
arranged efficiently to maximize her sense of all that's around her. Green
eyes dart to the nearest sound. Sometimes a cat is there, and sometimes one
is also in my lap, purring as I write and batting the end of the pen.
If a person walks inside, they see a floral patterned rug and a lot of
neutral walls around them. But because it is you, Linda, and not just
anyone, you see in the curtained and shadowed room to your left the beautiful
blue-and-green quilt that lays on the bed, one of the many my mother in law
has stitched. Turn your eyes upward and see another brilliant quilt, this
one jumping with turquoise and killer whales. It hangs up there over the
banister and accompanies artwork of salmon and water, a sunset, a picture
of where James and I were married. And light.
As you walk up the stairs, maybe one of our gray-and-white cats watches
from the edge, then darts to the end to greet you at the landing. From here
you can see that our home is nothing special except to us. A comfortable
kitchen, a small living space, and a few plants. A couple more colorful
quilted pieces on the wall and on the tables. Pictures of animals, photos.
The door to the deck is open and the kitties go in and out. They can chew
on pansies and chase bugs up there on the rail. Or they can sit and enjoy
the air and the sun.
You see all you need to of our home within a couple steps from the top
stair. So you know you can find the most beautiful things up high and
watching from up on the walls. Wedding photos, wooden bowls, a glass ball,
and bowls with blue patterns and fish are some items that adorn the tops of
the cabinets. The tallest thing of them all is the most precious a bunch of
dried roses, the first flowers James ever gave me, reach toward the highest
corner.
And it only takes a glance out the window to be reminded that real beauty
is in nature. A thing totally out of our control, constantly changing,
often surprising and always, always incredible. Over the tops of the
neighboring buildings so seemingly temporary with their tattered Christmas
lights and paled trim sits a handful of the multitude of peaks in the
Chugach Range. Look up still, to the summits, and you see that the first of
winter has already visited. A promise of a cold, brutal season ahead, sure.
Also maybe one of the most pure, perfect and eternal gifts the natural
world has for us. Blanketing the land in bitter cold, and bringing renewal.
Linda, I think if anyone could see this beauty, it is you. And when I'm
looking for what's good and beautiful, I know I'll be looking up.
Happy Birthday. I miss you.
Love, Amanda
|
Ginny Davidson
|
by Myrl Beck on Sep 2, 2011 at
11:01:26 PM
|
Hi Myrl, Hi Carolyn, Kin and I
are in Wasilla, Alaska this week, visiting one of my paternal cousins. Kari
was widowed 5 years ago and is still grieving the lost of her best friend
and beloved companion. My heart hurts for her, and I am reminded that you
are only beginning on this long journey. On our cruise here, I saw another
passenger who looked like Linda from the side. She seemed to be everywhere
I went and I just accepted that it was Linda reminding me to enjoy life, as
she did so very well.
She was a special lady and I miss her presence in my life. I send you my
love, gentle heartfelt hugs, and compassion on this anniversary of Linda's
birth. Ginny
|
David Schneider
|
by Anonymous on Aug 31, 2011
at 1:56:16 AM
|
Dear Linda,
Today would be your 66th birthday and I wish you were still here to enjoy a
party we would have for you. I think of you almost every day and miss
having you here among us. Carolyn sent us a nice list of activities that we
might participate in to help us remember you. I realized that I do many of
these frequently, like cuddling and playing with my cats, just sitting
reading a book etc. Several times we have stopped by to see how Myrl is
doing. We hope he will still be interested in going with us down to
Stanwood this next fall and winter to watch our grandsons Cannen and Skout
play basketball. I don't know if you are able to receive messages from
those who are left behind, but I hope in some way you can understand how
well loved and missed you are by those who were close to you.
Love,
Your cousin David
|
Amanda Wiese
|
by Anonymous on Aug 31, 2011
at 12:13:58 AM
|
Happy Birthday Linda. I miss
you. I wish you were here.
|
Bunny
|
by David Schneider on Aug 30,
2011 at 8:33:08 PM
|
Linda's (& Myrl's) birthday
parties were always 'standing-room-only'! Lots of fun, friends, food, and
outrageous birthday cards. To honor Linda's birthday today, at Carolyn's
suggestion, I cuddled cats (not a chore in this house). But I also made a
big pot of tapioca pudding - one of Linda's favorites. I only wish she were
here to share it with us.
|
Karen Beck
|
by Anonymous on Aug 30, 2011
at 12:08:43 PM
|
Hi Linda - Happy Birthday. You
are so missed. love, Karen
|
Myrl Beck
|
by Myrl Beck on Aug 30, 2011
at 10:20:37 AM
|
Today is your 66th birthday,
Linda. I will eat some caramel cake in your honor. If you were alive I would
have gone to Fourth Corner Quilts and bought a gift certificate, so that
you could select the fabric for your next stunningly beautiful quilt. But
they tell me that fabric is free in heaven (and that you never have to rip
out stitches there), so I'll give your present to Fred Hutch instead. Maybe
they can do something about ovarian cancer. It would be wonderful if fewer
men had to lose
their wives in the terrible way that I lost you. I'm sure they're trying,
but I wish they'd hurry. Love, forever. Myrl.
|
Lynda Berendsen
|
by Myrl Beck on Aug 15, 2011
at 7:41:04 PM
|
This is our 6th or 7th year to
come to Bellingham from Kansas to take our boat out for a month's cruise.
It is the first year Linda has not been here to greet us and go with us on
a short trip. We had some exciting trips with Myrl and Linda. One was a
terrifying trip across The Strait of Georgia with very heavy winds and
quite high waves. I was terrified and holding on for dear life. There was
Linda taking a video of Pieter driving trough the waves. We miss you Linda!
|
Chizuko Donovan
|
by Anonymous on Aug 9, 2011 at
8:37:38 PM
|
Linda was my second room mate in
French Hall. She had gotten ear pierced and so did I. We would show off the
newest earring. We both did our best to find most unique pieces. As Linda
introduced Patti to Wyeth, Linda and I would have conversation about Andrew
W. as if he was our good friend. Robert Kenney was running for President,
he came to Kalamazoo. Linda found out about it and she and I walked to
downtown. If Linda decided to room with somebody else, I would not have
gone. Some how we
kept in touch after WMU. I always looked forward to her X-mas note. One of
many trips back to MI, she came to our house. We happened to have a ladder
in our m. bd room, "Fast get away" we both had a good laugh. I
will always remember her with fond memories.
|
Livy Kelly
|
by Anonymous on Aug 5, 2011 at
9:02:05 PM
|
My grandma was a truly wonderful
woman. The world would be a much happier place if there were more people
like her! I can't imagine that she was ever disliked by anyone that knew
her.I was sad I wasn't able to come down for her celebration but I am
thankful I was able to see her in March, though it was brief. My
memories of her are all happy ones and I know I'll always cherish them.
I've been wearing the Ankh bracelet and one of her rings that my mom and
sister brought back. I think of her every time I look at them and am
reminded of her selflessness and kind attitude so that I will work to
strengthen those qualities in my own life. She was incredibly strong, never
complaining or feeling sorry for herself; it was inspiring to be around
her. She is a
great role model!
I love you Grandma and I'll miss discussing the latest gossip while
conquering tricky puzzles with you! You left only a positive mark on the
hearts you've touched and we are all thankful for it.
-Livy
|
Sue Broadhurst
|
by Anonymous on Jul 27, 2011
at 1:33:45 AM
|
I miss her terribly. She made
two gorgeous quilts for my kids and they are in my room b/c I can't help
stare at them... forever. Linda helped me when I was a new grad, and landed
my first job at St. Joe's. We became friends over books, laughs, meals,
walks and women's group. She is wonderful and will live in me as I strive
to be as kind, gentle, persistent, strong, and artistic as she was! Myrl is
right, the earth is a darker place now without her.
|
Elsie Rodney
|
by Myrl Beck on Jul 25, 2011
at 6:32:14 PM
|
What a lovely tribute to Linda.
I learned things about my cousin that I never knew. I remember her tobacco
picking summers and how good she was at empathsizing with her fellow
workers (migrants). She was an incredible human being and I spent way too
little time with her.
Love to all the family; Elsie
|
Myrl
|
by Myrl Beck on Jul 24, 2011
at 12:29:58 PM
|
Well, Linda, we buried your
ashes on Friday. It was a beautiful day. About 20 people were there, and
most of them said a few words. After we all had finished speaking we took
turns putting a little earth on your urn. I put in three shovels' full, one
for each decade we had together. I also dropped in the rock we purchased at
Harmony Hill. Afterwards they replaced the stone. You are directly under
the right side of the stone, and eventually I'll be under the left side,
just like we were in bed.
I'd like to think that someday I will be able to role over and put my arm
around you in the night. Who knows? Maybe I will. The stone is just right:
good Cordilleran quartz monzonite, with a simple inscription. We are the
first in that plot, and near a nice tree. Cedar Creek flows about 20 ft
away. It is perfect.
Afterwards I took everyone out for pizza and beer. It was good: you would
have enjoyed it. They insisted on trying to buy there own, so I ended up
with some money. I'll give it to the Hutch. I love you. Myrl
|
Bunny
|
by Anonymous on Jul 24, 2011
at 2:19:23 AM
|
So here we all are - the last
'good-bye'. Until the next 'Hello', somewhere, sometime unknown. I imagine
Linda collecting her favorite colors from the Universe, loveingly wrapping
them around new and old friends. Still creating love in her own way. They
say we leave this life when our work is done. I don't know what Linda's
'work' was to accomplish, it doesn't matter. But I do know, good job, well
done Linda! Bon Voyage! Happy Journey! Until we meet again...
|
Russ and Sally Burmester
|
by Anonymous on Jul 23, 2011
at 7:46:00 PM
|
What we remember most about
Linda is the gracious and unobtrusive manner in which she hosted dinners
and parties. No guest was left out of conversation or companionship,
although how she managed this was not obvious. She was unfailingly cheerful
and genuinely interested in others' wellbeing even while her own health was
deteriorating. But we also remember fondly the time she and Myrl visited us
in Northern Idaho and the hike we took to Copper Falls east of the Moyie
River. I wish the pictures I took then had turned out better. They don't match
the quality of our memory of her.
|
Marsha Strayer
|
by Anonymous on Jul 21, 2011
at 11:01:04 PM
|
Among my most treasured memories
from working at Fourth Corner Quilts are the wonderful friends I met there.
Through working with Florence on Saturdays, I was honored to get to know
her dear friend, Linda. While we spent only short periods of time together,
I grew to love and respect Linda and to admire her for her many talents,
engaging and fun-loving personality, soulfulness and inspiring bravery.
Like Myrl, I recently participated in my new hometown's Relay for Life here
in Orange County, CA,
which included a donation to cancer research and luminary in her memory.
Just my own small way of reminding Linda, Myrl, Carolyn and all Linda's
family and friends that she is loved and missed by people most of them
scarcely knew. As family and friends gather this weekend in celebration of
Linda's rich life, my thoughts are of Linda and each of you -- fond
memories of this special lady are long-lasting and far-reaching.
|
Rebecca Joyce
|
by Anonymous on Jul 19, 2011
at 9:50:54 PM
|
Aunt Linda was a wonderful aunt
to me - she made me feel loved and appreciated. When I had my children she
really enjoyed her grandnephews. She made them colorful quilts with frogs,
cows, and African animals and they are sleeping with their quilts at this
moment. I last saw her when she was in Kalamazoo two autumns ago. She saw
that the boys were jumping in a big pile of yellow maple leaves in the
front yard and she jumped in the leaves with a huge smile on her face. She
stayed in the leaves a while, savoring the moment. Then, she and Uncle Myrl
went trick-or-treating with the boys around our neighborhood. It was a
great day. I also picture her on Heron Island for our family reunion
reading books to my boys in the cottage. I have so many good memories of
Aunt Linda and I will miss her so much.
|
Liz Schermer
|
by Anonymous on Jul 14, 2011
at 1:30:44 PM
|
I knew Linda mainly through
Myrl, and she always impressed me with her enthusiasm and kindness. She
fought a long hard fight, but even then, she found ways to remain cheerful.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope through research at the Hutch and other
places, this terrible disease, which has taken so many wonderful women like
Linda, can be cured.
|
Moonlight Quilt Guild
|
by Anonymous on Jul 10, 2011
at 7:31:37 PM
|
Linda joined Moonlight Quilt
Guild in 1999. Over the years she served the guild in many ways, including
as project chair and auditor. She was a member of this year's community
service committee and participated in the January work party to sew fleece
hats for the homeless and for chemotherapy patients. She was an active
member of the small quilt group, The Crazy Eights. Each of us in this small
group, cherish our memories of her friendship and our individual row quilts
with Linda's contribution.
Linda especially loved working with batiks, brights, and Asian fabrics. She
enjoyed making what she called "toddler" quilts for her great
nieces and great nephews and the children of her work colleagues. She
wasn't keen on using patterns. She just didn't want to make a quilt that
looked like someone else's. Her creativity earned her awards in the 2000
and 2006 guild challenges. And, Linda thoroughly enjoyed last October's
retreat at Warm Beach, an item on her "bucket list". The comfort
quilt we presented her in November 2009 enveloped Linda until the end.
|
Florence DiJulio
|
by Anonymous on Jul 10, 2011
at 3:10:47 PM
|
In working to add photographs
and captions to Linda's "Quilting Legacy" album, I began to
reflect on her personal legacy: her capacity for friendship. She accepted
us for who we are. She was empathic and had a way of being with others that
made us feel valued, cared for, and respected. She shared freely of
herself. She was kind. She possessed a wisdom far beyond her years. I could
count on her to tell me what I needed to hear. And, sometimes I actually
sought out her opinion for that very reason! Linda had a refinement to her; she
was always polite and well-spoken. How do I encapsulate over 20 years of
friendship? Not easily. We shared a love of quilting, travel, our
respective hospital careers, reading, an occasional movie, and more. These
interests led to retreats, the 2002 quilt tour to Amish country in
Pennsylvania, quilt shop hops, guild activities, margueritas at El Gitano
after a particularly difficult day at work, and visits to Borrego Springs
where she showed me the camel teeth she found in Anza Borrego Desert State
Park (still in situ, of course). I cherish the memories of our times
together. She is greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences to Myrl, Carolyn,
the extended family and all her other friends.
|
Myrl Beck
|
by Myrl Beck on Jul 9, 2011 at
12:45:27 PM
|
Hi, Linda: Last night and this
morning they held the annual Relay for Life. I got up early and walked a
few laps. There were quite a few luminaria dedicated to you,from several
different sources. A few were still burning. I had intended to make a
donation to the American Cancer Society, but their booth was closed - so
I'll give it to Fred Hutch instead.
God, how I miss you this morning!
Myrl
|
Nora May Fishbach
|
by Nora Fishbach on Jul 7,
2011 at 4:20:08 PM
|
I'm thinking of you with love,
and remembering a wonderful friendship.
|
Richard Joyce
|
by Anonymous on Jun 25, 2011
at 7:57:42 PM
|
What can I say? I had two
wonderful sisters, and now I have only one. I can remember the excitement
of Linda's birth, when I was seven, just two weeks after the end of the
Second World War. Since then she has been a constant in my life, always a
source of fun and inspiration and love, and now she's gone and I will miss
her. Words fail me.
My love and sympathy to Myrl and Carolyn, and my thanks for all they did
for Linda, and thanks as well to all the others who supported her during
her struggles.
|
Raelyn Joyce
|
by Anonymous on Jun 25, 2011
at 7:56:04 PM
|
I feel deep gratitude for having
had Linda as my sister-in-law. I'm reminded of her everywhere I look in my
home, for as Kristin Beck pointed out, she loved gift-giving and finding
just the right gift for someone. The earrings I wore two days ago, the
gourd calendar I checked this morning, the soft woven set of baskets from
small to large from Mexico, the handsome fabric bag I take on trips, and
the elegant but slightly worn quilted runner on our dining table came from
Linda (and Myrl). She
made our three young grandsons small , brightly colored quilts that they
cuddle with every night.
Richard, her brother, and I first visited her when she was living in San
Mateo, California, and we visited her, later with our young children, in
almost every place she lived in after that, following her to Bellingham,
Washington, where she made her home with Myrl. She was always welcoming and
hospitable, and treated us with what Myrl described as her characteristic
"unfailing kindness." The last time I saw her was last December,
after Richard and I spent a wonderful Christmas with her and Myrl. She was
feeling relatively well and was enjoying food again then. The soft, warm,
tight embrace she gave when we said goodbye I remember and cherish!
At her mother's memorial service in Kalamazoo, Linda, speaking about her
mom, said that her mom taught her children the Golden Rule. Linda, as well
as any person I know, lived the Golden Rule. Thank you, Myrl and Carolyn,
for your devoted. loving care of Linda, especially when we couldn't be
there to help.
|
Sam and Myrna Sims
|
by Samuel Sims on Jun 13, 2011
at 8:11:53 AM
|
Our deepest condolences to Myrl;
we never had the privilege to meet Linda, but have heard about her from
messages from Myrl.
|
David E. Schneider
|
by Anonymous on Jun 9, 2011 at
3:17:12 AM
|
I had the pleasure of watching
my cousin Linda really bloom into a confident and highly respected Physical
Therapist with a large circle of close friends. It is evident from other
messages left in this guestbook that Linda was an inspiration for many
other people, both within her profession and outside of her work. After
Linda and Myrl purchased their house, I was surprised to learn that Linda
had taken on the task of replacing much of the baseboard molding in her
house. That is a job usually left to professional carpenters and I was
impressed by what a good job she had done. Some years later I was inspired
by Linda's example to undertake a similar job in my house. Linda's skill as
a very talented quilter is well known by most of her friends and relatives,
but I don't know how many of you were aware of her carpentry skills. I very
much miss my cousin!
|
Carolyn Joyce
|
by Carolyn Joyce on Jun 7,
2011 at 6:29:35 PM
|
I wish everyone could have a
sister like Linda. She was always there for me--sharing laughter, tears,
and endless conversations. Our bond grew deeper and stronger each year and
when she got sick, we made even more time for each other. I have a lifetime
of memories stored in my heart, but my future is forever changed without
her supportive love. Linda Hope, my sweet sister, I will miss and love you
forever.
|
Sally B. Clough
|
by Anonymous on Jun 3, 2011 at
11:11:28 PM
|
I started my career at St Joes
in 1989. Linda was lovely, fun, hardworking and compassionate. We often
ended up working late and enjoying each others company while catching up on
the days chores.
I stayed at the south campus when Linda moved to the main campus. I didn't
get to see her as much but in 2008 I had a long awaited baby and before I
knew it there she was at all the way out to Fendale at my door bearing good
will and gifts. She was so happy for me and held my sweet baby close to her breast. I'll
never forget how sweet that was that she made time for us. She knew how
important a life event that was for me and wanted to help me celebrate. I
love her very much and Merl, we will think of you every day and send you
all our strength. Love you both, Sally Clough, Woody and Roy Karrer.
|
Monique Sicard-Johnston
|
by Monique Sicard-Johnston on
Jun 3, 2011 at 7:19:21 PM
|
I am a friend of Linda's sister,
Carolyn, who unfortunately hadn't met Linda before, although I wanted to
convey to her family and those dear to her how sorry I am for her passing.
She sounded so courageous in her fight and so deserved to win her battle.
I loved the obituary you wrote, Mryl... I feel I know her a little bit more
now. I believe you were all very blessed to have her in your lives. I hope
she lives on within you.
|
Patti Wilson
|
by Anonymous on Jun 3, 2011 at
2:03:04 PM
|
In memory of an inspiring human
being and beloved co-worker. With loving thoughts and memories, Patti
|
Linda Thomson
|
by Anonymous on Jun 1, 2011 at
12:01:32 PM
|
After reading her obituary, I am
at a loss of words for anything to add. I think it described her perfectly.
I had the joy of working with her for many years at SJH. The way that Myrl
described her as a PT is exactly how she was. She was a very kind and
compassionate PT who truly cared about her patients. I am so lucky to have
had her in my life.
|
Steve and Terri Inge
|
by Anonymous on Jun 1, 2011 at
10:11:57 AM
|
We are very sorry for your loss.
You told the story of her life wonderfully well.
|
Pat and Ron Beechem
|
by Anonymous on May 31, 2011
at 2:35:27 PM
|
Memories of Linda will always
live in my heart. She was especially vibrant and fun friend since college
days. We've had great times when visiting. Ron and I will miss her.
|
Cindy Schardt
|
by Anonymous on May 30, 2011
at 6:25:05 PM
|
"A life is like a flower...
it blooms, then fades away,
But it leaves a lasting beauty
in our hearts from day to day"
Emily Singer Weston
Linda
was an inspiration to us all we will not forget our journey with her in our
Mon. cancer group. My heartfelt sympathy to her family.
|
John and Joan McManus
|
by John Mcmanus on May 30,
2011 at 10:15:50 AM
|
We will always remember the fun
times we had together. Linda had a great sense of humor. She was such a
caring person. The love she had for her friends and family, especially
Myrl, is her legacy. Love and Peace,
John And Joan McManus
|
Shirley Pendilla
|
by Anonymous on May 29, 2011
at 5:00:44 PM
|
I worked w/ Linda at StJoseph
Hospital and I remember a very caring, compassionate person. She was very
friendly and always willing to help when needed. She always had a smile on
her face that makes your day.
I also took good care of her when she was sick.
I will truly miss a real friend and a co-worker.My greatest sympathy and
prayers to Myrl and the whole family.
|
Margo Malone
|
by Anonymous on May 29, 2011
at 10:42:05 AM
|
Linda and I were friends for
almost 25 years. She was a physical therapy student at the hospital where I
had started working as a new P.T. We were both so excited when we found out
she had gotten a job there, too. While I moved on to other jobs, she &
I stayed friends. She was the kind of friend you want to have forever:
honest, fun and kind. That her presence is no longer here is such a sadness
for me and I know for everyone else who was close to her. I will always be
grateful for her friendship
|
Maury Schwartz
|
by Anonymous on May 28, 2011
at 6:30:11 PM
|
Some years ago I met Linda
coming off her shift at St. Jo as I was going in to see my wife Norma. We
chatted for a few moments, and as we parted I felt better. That is the way
Linda was.
|
Vickie Holland
|
by Anonymous on May 27, 2011
at 11:28:21 PM
|
Linda fought a gallant battle.
Was still able to find the power within her to enjoy her short time left.
She has been an inspiration to me.
|
Linda Kelly
|
by Linda Kelly on May 27, 2011
at 11:17:31 PM
|
Dear Linda,
Thank you for being such a wonderful partner for my dad, a great friend and
step-mom to me and a loving grandma to my daughters. I only wish we had
lived closer and had more time together. We will cherish the memories of
the time we did have.
Love, Linda K
|
Jeanette Kelly
|
by Anonymous on May 27, 2011
at 8:09:47 PM
|
I only recently met Linda when
we attended James and Amanda's wedding in Alaska. I was struck by her
courage and tenacity in making such a trip at that time, but I am very
happy she did. It was a pleasure to get acquainted with her. My sympathy
goes out to Myrl, Kristen, Karen and Linda.
|
Jo-Ann Alquist Langseth
|
by Anonymous on May 27, 2011
at 1:07:28 AM
|
I was just reading some of my
high-school diaries last night, and my good friend, whom I jokingly called
"Lovely Leandah," was featured prominently --- her scintillating
and wonderfully wry wit, her moody walks in the rain, our collecting for
UNICEF at Halloween together, her phone availability to help me with my
geometry and algebra (only a call away -- 72758) - - and much more. Such a
delight -- always!
After high school and college she stayed out west, and I east, but a very fundamental
affinity inspired us to keep in touch at Christmas and on our birthdays,
always with the thought of a gala reunion, foolishly put off for al di la,
and now till our next lifetime.
Her presence in the world brightened my life and others' very much, and
that is my definition of a successful life.
|
Dawn Cannizzaro
|
by Anonymous on May 26, 2011
at 5:00:06 PM
|
Linda was a good friend as well
as a great physical therapist. We worked together for many years with me
being a nurse on the floors. She was someone I could always talk to and she
would do anything to come along side and help. Linda gave and gave. My
prayers are going out to her family and many friends.
|
Margo and Phil Montague
|
by Anonymous on May 26, 2011
at 2:49:55 PM
|
Now, more than ever, we'll
treasure the magnificent quilt that Linda so generously gave us. And we'll
remember her wonderfully kind heart, her remarkable courage and good
spirits in confronting her terrible illness.
|
Jay Teachman
|
by Anonymous on May 26, 2011
at 2:07:59 PM
|
I spent many fine hours with
Linda and Myrl during Friday after work happy hours. She will be sorely
missed.
|
Kimber Langton
|
by Anonymous on May 26, 2011
at 1:24:14 AM
|
The last time I saw Linda was at
the oncology clinic. As usual, she was so kind and funny, such a great
soul.
|
Kristen Beck
|
by Anonymous on May 25, 2011
at 11:35:42 PM
|
I agree that Linda was lots of
fun. I will fondly remember her child-like enthusiasm for all gift-giving
occasions. I can't open presents without thinking of Linda excitedly
exclaiming, "Presents! Preeeeesents!" While the rest of us were
getting old and tired of gift-giving, she still had great enthusiasm for it
and had a talent for getting people the right gift. We will miss you Linda,
but are glad that the last few months of struggle and suffering are over. I
envision you at
peace, flying over the southern California desert in the sunshine, on your
magic quilt.
|
Karen Beck
|
by Anonymous on May 25, 2011
at 7:13:13 PM
|
Linda was my stepmother but also
a great friend. One of the funnest people I know. I'll miss her very much.
|
|
So nice to re-read all the memories about Linda. They all say the same thing - Linda was dearly loved. I think Linda knew that too.
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