It was a bittersweet experience Saturday. We held the memorial service for Jon and it was well attended. Our family had the opportunity to meet Jon's professors, work associates, fellow students, softball team members, former co-workers, and a slew of others. We were gladdened and uplifted by the kindness and warmth of those who came to say goodbye to my brother.
I find it difficult to explain what our familiy has been experiencing these last few months. We all loved Jon fiercly for the same reasons as many of you did. We did not want him to suffer any longer but we did not want his vibrant spirit to leave us. My brother is at peace, he said as many goodbyes as time would allow him with us and I feel we have many new family members to cherish.
There were many a discussion held regarding the outcome and purpose of the blog you are reading. It was suggested we keep the blog up, place pictures, and notes from Jon's friends and loved ones and also use it as a place to keep Jon's memory and spirit available to all of us. (I intend to scan the "Notes to Jon" book from the service and periodically place and snippet or two here)
There was also a proposal made to consider having a memorial fund raiser run to keep the memory of my brother alive. An informal ad hoc committee has been been started by some of Jon's enthusiastic running friends and we have a start!
