It was a hectic Memorial Day weekend for my son and I this year. On Saturday my 19 year old son drove up to join me for the memorial service for our dear friend Charlie Carlson in Finlayson. Following the official memorial at the community center there was an impromptu gathering in the pasture across from the Carlson farmstead where many of Charlie's closest friends came to say their final goodbyes.
On Sunday my nephew and his wife had a get together for my deceased oldest brother's siblings and offspring. It was a very enjoyable evening with the main course, turkey , supplied by my niece's, nephew's and my employer for which we were all thankful.
On Monday, Memorial Day, my son and I were men on a mission. First on the itinerary was Hillcrest Cemetery in Minneapolis to pay respects to my friend Timothy Gerard Shelley who left us way too early this past February. I was devastated when I learned months after the fact of Tim's passing. I therefore made paying respects to my good friend Tim my priority this Memorial Day. Although there was not yet a headstone for Tim, my son and I, with the assistance of a nice young woman in a golf cart were able to find Tim's grave which was covered by a biodegradable mat used to spur grass growth..
Next it was off to the Crystal Lake Cemetery in North Minneapolis to visit the graves of my father's parents. We found my grandfather's marker without problem but needed the assistance of a very kind and considerate maintenance worker to uncover my grandmother's marker. I know it would have made my father very happy that my son and I honored his parents, especially since their children are all gone and if we did not do it no one else would.
Finally we topped off our weekend at my friend Patricia's Memorial Day family and friends gathering. Patricia is the sister of my very good friend Ralph and one of the kindest and most generous people I know. It is always extremely humbling the way Ralph and his family have included me and my children in their family get togethers for which I will be eternally grateful. A fine ending to a most Memorable Memorial Day weekend.
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