Omi

My grandmother passed away last weekend after Thanksgiving. It was not sudden as she hadn't been too healthy this past month, but that doesn't make it any easier. I had been thinking about what to say on my blog about it but hadn't gotten anything "on paper" when my sister sent her email to her friends & family about it. What she says is so eloquent and rings so true I asked her if I could post it. She graciously said yes so here it is.

Love you Omi!

Begin forwarded message:

From: Melissa Kurtz

Date: December 2, 2008 12:40:24 AM PST>

Subject: In Loving Memory of my Grandmother

My grandmother, Sara Briar Kurtz (I called her Omie, the German name for grandmother), has passed away. At the grand age of 95, she had lived a long and fabulous life and had enjoyed many adventures all over the world. We are very sad to lose her love, energy, companionship and guidance and she will be greatly missed...

From Omie I learned the enrichment of artistic expression, the power of determination, the love of travel and new adventures, the reward of pursuing knowledge and learning, the value of hard work, the joy of cooking, and the wonderful model of deep loyalty and love she shared with her husband, Eldo (Opa to me), to whom she was married for 66 years. She was an amazing woman and I have enjoyed the significant time I have been able to spend with her throughout my life, and especially over these past few years.

She died peacefully in her sleep after enjoying a lovely Thanksgiving weekend. I wish her well on her transition to a place where her spirit will soar and dance without limits.

With love and light,

Melissa

(photo of Omie and me at her surprise 95th birthday party)