. . . an attempt to say THANK YOU

The following is what we put in the local newspaper, though these mere words don't come close to expressing our love and gratitude to every single person who loved us, prayed for us and supported us through this "blur" of days . . .

To attempt to say THANK YOU to this community seems almost impossible! There are so many of you who have extended your love and support to Rick’s parents, his siblings, myself, our children & grandchildren and our extended family that it is more than I can comprehend.

We would like to thank the Mid-County Rescue Squad and Sheriff’s Department for your quick response and tender care. Thanks to the State Police, specifically Mike Borski for coming to all of us as you did. Thanks Laurie Haight for staying for with us in those initial minutes at the hospital. Thank you to the wonderful staff at BAMC, especially Dr. Stein and nurse Erin, your compassion will always be remembered. Thanks Pastor Buckley & Bobbi and Pastor John & Kathy – just for being there and never letting go of us, also to Pastor Buckley for the beautiful celebration of Rick’s life! Bev, Gary and Nathan Anderson, you are some special people. Your tenderness helped to ease the burden of the difficult days that laid before us.

To those of you who came to the hospital and were just “there” with us and to those who came to our homes and just stayed with us, brought food, quietly cleaned, answered phone calls and just showered us with love; each and every one of you was a blessing to us. Though we couldn’t always keep track of everyone who brought in food, or just jumped in and helped, it was such a blessing, and very appreciated! Thanks to everyone who came to the funeral home to celebrate Rick’s life. We didn’t really realize how loved he was throughout the community until Tuesday night. Also, A HUGE thanks to the families who went and finished up the job of getting Buck & Dodo’s firewood ready for them for the winter. For all these things, big or little, please consider yourself hugged and thanked.

Lastly, but certainly not least, we want to thank our LORD and SAVIOR Jesus Christ for giving Rick to this earth (and us) for 55 years. Rick loved the Lord with all of his heart and that is why we can have peace in the midst of this storm, knowing that Rick is now safely home and in the arms of Jesus.

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

This is truly a wonderful community and we feel honored and humbled by your generosity.

Sheila Rye, for Rick Rye’s family