Bill is a man who is "one of a kind." He was a true light to our family, his workplace, ball players, friends, and anyone he met. He has touched so many lives and continued this pattern until his last breath as the even the hospital staff was surprised and mourned this recent turn of events. Because he is such a transparent soul, there was no question that the people in his life, especially family, knew how much he loved them. He is a rock in our family and he will never understand how much we all miss him or how deep our love is rooted. We could continue to write into next week on all of the good qualities of Bill, but as we pray to God, we know that he is hearing how much he means to us. Again, we take this journey one day at a time as the family continues to process the illness, now death, next healing. Arrangements are being discussed and we will be sure to keep you posted, but until then, we leave you with beautiful verse:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. ~Psalm 23
I can't image not having Bill to visit with "over the fence", I will miss his good cheer and sharing the trials of lawn care with him. -Mary
ReplyDeletethanks for everything, bill. i feel so lucky to have had you touch my life. your influence really helped push me in the right direction. you were a great coach and an even better friend. you are missed.
ReplyDeletemy thoughts are with all of you.
-aaron
From hair styles, to lawn care, to batting styles you were a coach in more ways then imaginable. Your departure is the beginning of healing for all, you will be missed but never forgotten.
ReplyDeleteBlake
We heard at church today that Bill had 'gone home' - we were shocked and saddened. We held out great hopes God would choose to give him more time. Bill has been one of those 'main-stays' in life. Rich always looked forward to getting his hair cut and have quality conversation (that always included a laugh or two) with a friend and fellow believer. Know our hearts break for you - please let us know if there is anything we can do, until then we are praying God will give you and your family the comfort that only He can.
ReplyDeleteRich and Danna