Hi, Gang!  I had an assignment to write my own obituary, so I thought I’d share it in case you’re asked to speak at the funeral. Don’t worry!  I’m not planning on checking out any time soon. Don’t put the whole thing in the newspaper, though… it would cost too much!  Love, Mom
P.S.  I’d love to hear from you!

Karen Greenwood Gardner Graves, Dedicated and Beloved Mother, Loving and Cherished Wife, Teacher and Musician, Dies peacefully at 86. (I’m thinking positively.)

Karen Graves, died on September 18, 2031 at her home in Three Rivers, California.  She was 86.  She is survived by her beloved husband, Clane Graves, and her equally beloved children and their equally beloved spouses, Kathryn Mitchell, Gregory Gardner, Joseph Gardner, Jennifer Yates, Andrea Moore, and her 10 cherished grandchildren.

Mrs. (Gardner) Graves, a much-respected and loved teacher of more than 30 years, was well received by her students as a music specialist in both Hawaii and Utah (Iroquois Point, Makakilo, Hilo, Lindon, American Fork). She masterfully and enthusiastically taught her students in music appreciation and singing. As the technology entered the schools, she became a Computer Specialist, teaching basic skills, maintaining networks, authoring educational programs, and managing web sites.  

She finished her career teaching Third Grade.  Her students there excelled in all subjects, including writing, art and music. She produced self-disciplined and motivated students, laying a solid foundation for their continued education. She received Teacher of the Year recognition and was qualified to teach the gifted and talented. Her favorite quote concerning teaching children is: “There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children: one is to give them roots, the other is to give them wings!”

Over the years, Karen devoted many hours of service as church organist, choir accompanist, and primary music and choir director.  She rewarded herself, after putting in more hours as a piano teacher, with the acquisition of piano.  In later years another reward came in the form of a Celtic Harp… she played perhaps not as well as she would have liked, yet it brought her much peace.  She has written scripts and directed several road shows or skits, one with a well-received original musical score. She has also composed other pieces for piano and full-choir.

Karen’s love of her husband, Clane Graves, is legend.  Her husband loved her completely, without reservation. They were known for their joy at being with one another, their hand holding, laughter, their concern and devotion to each other, and their love of God and his endless mercies.  

Above all, she is most pleased with the good and honorable children she has reared, who in their turn have lived admirably and/or reared equally fine grandchildren who are the promise of the future. It seems her love and devotion to her family will carry on beyond the grave.  She has often told her children with a wink, “You know when you feel like someone’s watching you?  After I’m gone, that’ll be me, just checking in on you, seeing if you need anything.”

This obituary is a work in progress.  Hopefully there will be much, much more to write.  I’m planning on sticking around a bit longer.

 “There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children:  
one is to give them roots, the other is to give them wings!”

Katie again- I had this early morning thought about mom sending this to us by email many many years ago. I was surprised my search pulled it up. I’m so glad that I didn’t mass erase email like I have been wanting to do for years. Obviously we need to do some re-writing, but 90% of this is gold! Thanks mom from the past.

Published by KaGardn1

I'm trying to live the most meaningful and intentional life possible. Minimalist, Vegetarian, Fierce protector of a full night sleep, Mother, Wife, Daughter -caretaker, Sister, Friend, Nurse. Sharing day to day life with family and friends. A quest to minimize effects of Alzheimer's Disease. View all posts by KaGardn1