Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Emilie’s Passing

Emile passed away in her sleep last night. I was holding her hand as she faded away. I loved her and will miss hear dearly, but I am happy to see her free of the pain and suffering. The services will be at the Basilica of St Mary on Monday, December 29th. Visitation is at 11:00 AM and mass will follow at Noon. Emile wanted me to share the following quote after she died.

"And did you get what
you wanted from this life, even so?

I did.

And what did you want?

To call myself beloved, to feel myself
beloved on the earth."

— Raymond Carver

Post by Stephen Lemmons

386 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   201 – 386 of 386
Jen J said...

Steve~

These were the words that I never wanted to read. I held out hope, even as I said my prayers on Christmas Eve that God would grant you a miracle. But then it occured to me that He did.

I was barely acquainted with you & Emilie through AVENUEs at the Basilica and I remember always thinking of her as a gentle soul - there was something about her that you could see the gentleness there. I feel that I have come to know her through her blog and her column in The Catholic Spirit, and I thank her for her beautiful writing.

I pray that God grants you and the boys strength as you learn to create your "new normal." Those precious boys will always know of their mother's love through the blog and the friends and family who will keep her memory alive.

I too hope that you will continue to update her blog from time to time so that we can "keep in touch."

Know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers this weekend and always. May God bless you and grant you peace & strength.

PJA said...

May Emilie rest in Christ's peace and may you and your family feel His love and protection.

Anonymous said...

I am very sorry to see this post, and I pray for you all that was left behind as she went on to be with the Lord... May you find peace in comfort in knowing she is fully healed in the arms of our King...

Lucy said...

Praying for you all and thinking of you.

Leanne said...

Thank you for the privelage of reading this blog...my heart aches for you and your babies... I will cherish each hug from my own a little more today...

Sully said...

I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless you and your boys and may you find peace.

Heather said...

I am so sorry for your pain. I am glad that your wife has no more pain. God has given her a healthy body again. You now have a beautiful angel looking over you & your kids. Stay strong! Peace & strength be with you in the time that lies ahead.

Amy said...

Steve - Sadness overcame my heart upon reading this and I've cried a thousand tears for all of you. We are truly sorry for your loss. Emilie was an amazing woman - but that comes as no surprise to you.

Gerald and I will join you and many others on Monday to celebrate Emilie's life.

We will be praying for you today, tomorrow and always.

Amy & Gerald Mimick

Minxy Mimi said...

(Hugs)) to you and your family. May she rest in peace and look down on you all.

JPickles said...

My love and prayers go out to you and your beautiful boys. What a mark your wife made on this Earth. Goodbye Emilie, you will be missed and never ever forgotten.

Jill Calabrese

Michelle said...

That is such a beautiful quote! I am so sorry for your loss! I am thinking of you and your family and praying for you!

Summer said...

I have no words to describe how I feel about hearing this news.

I'm so sorry.

Elena LaVictoire said...

Eternal rest grant unto her oh Lord,and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.

twondra said...

Praying for you and your family

Tulips said...

Stephen,

I never your met your wife, but I felt like I did after following her beautifully written blog. (We were on the TTC6mos+ together.)

I have been really touched by her grace and courage.

My thoughts and prayers with you and your sons.

Katy Fransen

Lisa said...

I am so very sorry for your family's heartbreaking loss.

Deb said...

There are no words for the magnitude of her passing... may you find peace and comfort in the memories of your wonderful wife.

Eileen M. said...

My heart is heavy having learned of Emilie's passing. I'm comforted to know that she was where she wanted to be...at home with her beloved family. We are reminded each year at Christmas of God's great love for us with the celebration of his greatest gift: the birth of Jesus. And God gives us so many other beautiful gifts, and Emilie was most certainly one of them.

In high school, I respected her for her intelligence, talent, and friendship. She was always kind and such a good listener. It seems ironic that we both ended up in St. Paul and she not far from my inlaws in Highland Park. It is clear that in living life to the fullest and sharing her thoughts and views through her writing, Emilie inspired many people. I am blessed to have known Emilie and to have witnessed a beautiful and God-filled soul.

I will miss her wit and charm, her depth and insight, her truth and understanding, her friendship and beautiful smile, definitely her writing, and, without a doubt, her "tell it like it is" style that kept her from ever glossing over anything.

May she find Eternal Peace, Love and Joy with our Creator, and may her family and friends be filled with her generous Spirit.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Eileen McGuire and Family

Aurelia said...

I am so sorry for your family's loss Steve.

I wish you peace now and going forward.

Reba said...

I am so very sorry for your family's loss.

amyinbc said...

I am so sorry for your very great loss. Your wife was a wonderful inspiration to many of us fighting cancer. May she rest in peace until you meet again..

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts & prayers.

Heather said...

Emilie,
I'd like to believe you are somewhere reading these comments, feeling how much we, your readers, appreciated and admired you, how we grieve the loss of you, your voice, how we felt we knew you even if we'd never met in person. You shared with us such intimate details of your life and for that we are stronger mothers, friends, sisters, daughters, wives, people. For that we are grateful. I think mothers cannot imagine this loss for their own children and husband, cannot fathom how you prepare them for that or prepare yourself. Someone once told me how they pray to be carriers of grief. I'd like to think that's what we are...we each take just a fraction of the grief your family is carrying and make their load just a little lighter. I'd like to think that if we can each take a little of that grief, it will create some space for light in their life until the sun is easier to see every day.

I will miss you, Emilie. I will continue to pray for your children and husband. Thank you for sharing your beautiful spirit with us.

SerenityByJan said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
JellyBelly said...

my thoughts and prayers are with you.

i am so sorry for your loss.

zach05kate95 said...

Just reading through these posts shows how loved your dear Emilie was. I hope you have people around you to hold you up, and strengthen you, through this difficult time.

Unknown said...

I didn't know Emilie, but have learned of her through my best friends wife - they went to jr high & high school.

Being an acupuncturist, Im delighted that acupuncture provided some comfort, peace and spiritual evolution for Emilie.

You both have created beautiful children -- I can see her features and spirit glow in their face.

Your family are in my thoughts - I will hold you all in the palm of my hand, to offer support and provide strength.

Much care and sympathy,
Ondria Holub

AnotherDreamer said...

I am so very sorry for your loss, but I am also glad she isn't suffering anymore.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

SerenityByJan said...

Steve, I wanted to let you know that Emilie's story will run in the Pioneer Press on Sunday, although maybe Emilie told you that when I talked to her on Dec. 19. I wrote a bit about the upcoming story here:

http://blogs.twincities.com/dailyjuggle/

Thanks to you and Emilie for sharing your story with me. I hope it may give you a little comfort when all of St. Paul learns on Sunday what an amazing person, beautiful writer and dedicated wife and mother that Emilie was.

-- Molly Guthrey Millett

sab said...

I can't express the sorrow I felt when I read the news of Emilie's passing. She touched my life in many ways, and though I have never met her I will miss her very much.

Christina said...

I'm so sorry for your lost.

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry.

Carol Hooper-Cahill said...

Dear Steve,
Brian and I were saddened to hear of Emilie's passing. We will keep you and the boys in our prayers. It was an honor to know Emilie. She was an amazing woman.
Carol Hooper-Cahill & Brian Cahill

kdaniels said...

I never knew your wife. I actually came across her blog through someone else. But I just wanted to offer my condolences to you and your family. I'm so terribly sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your precious boys are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jennie said...

I will pray for your strength, and for the children's understanding and for emilie's wonderful beautiful spirit.

Kaitlyn said...

You will see her in heaven.. my condolences to your family. My prayers are with you.

Kierstin said...

I "met" Emilie through a TTC board a few years ago and found her blog a few months ago. I have been following her journey and was praying for her and you guys. She was such a strong woman. I know she deeply loved you and her boys. GOD has another beautiful angel in heaven. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you. I am so sorry for your loss.

Kierstin

astral said...

I am very sorry. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Elena said...

A Facebook group has been established in memory of Emilie. It's open for all to join. Just log into Facebook and search for "In Memory of Emilie Lemmons."

Elena

Anonymous said...

I'm so very sorry for your loss. You are all in my prayers.

Sonya said...

I am so very sorry for your loss. Words cannot express it.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Jill said...

Steve, My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys. Emilie's spirit will live on with everyone who's lives she touched. She was truly a beautiful soul.

Jill Lawrence

Phoebe said...

What a beautiful poem. What a gift to appreciate a beloved life. I'm so sorry for your loss of your wife. Peace to you in your time of grief.

Paz said...

I am sorry, no words can say it right... Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

ray said...

Came home from visiting family for Christmas about an hour ago to find the Lemmons family Xmas card in the mail. I almost signed up for Facebook (which I've held off joining with my real name for forever) over that, for the Emilie tribute site. Despite being all into photography now, however, I have no decent photo of myself to put up. Worse, and more importantly, I have few photos of Emilie from the era in which I spent the most time with her, having fallen out of the photo taking habit for a few years there, for whatever reason. I haven't had any photos or negatives with her scanned anyway. But it would be impossible to forget her, as is true for so many others. I strongly doubt that even Alzheimer's later on would take my memories of her away. She made that much of an impression. The lack of photos really doesn't matter, ultimately.

All I really want to do here, meanwhile, is give my condolences to Steve. I sent word about that earlier, but was reticent about posting here, just couldn't bring myself to for reasons I can't explain. I hated reading about her suffering over the past couple of months, and am glad that the pain is over for her even if if no one wanted things to work out this way. I'm so, so sorry for your loss.
-- Ray

Traycina said...

I did not know Emilie, but as a choir member at the Basilica, learned of her recent passing.

Thinking and praying for you, Steve, as well as Daniel and Benjamin while you grieve her loss, and wishing you peace and comfort while you celebrate Emilie's wonderful and blessed life.

Dee said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Her last words were beautiful, as was she, and she shall remain a beautiful person for all time. God bless.

Deanna said...

So sorry to hear about your loss. I did not know Emilie, but was touched by her writings and strength! My thoughts and prayers are w/ you and your family during this difficult time...

Anonymous said...

Praying for you all. May the Lord comfort you and shower you with His peace.

♥.Trish.♥ Drumboys said...

Emilie was inspirational - Her legacy will live on LONG in the lives she touched.

I am so sorry you had to goodbye to your precious wife and your boys their mom.

Dear Lord, Please give Steve “peace” at this time. Cover him in your hedge of protection and give him the ability to hold his family tight and get through this difficult time.

Fill him with your strength so that he may get through each day, knowing You are there with him every step of the way. I pray for his comfort in knowing You are in control and Emilie is now pain free. Amen.

Wordgirl said...

Dear Lemmon Family,

My heart is with you.

I wish you peace -- and that you feel the light of the love of all the people whose lives were touched by Emilie's words -- and the undulating effect out into the world...

I am so deeply sorry for your loss,

Pam

Tracy said...

God's blessings to you Steve and the boys. May you always feel Emilie watch over you with warmth and love and may you always treasure your memories of her.

Tracy and Muriel (3) Smith
St. Thomas More

~Chel~ said...

I'm soo sorry for your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Anonymous said...

I linked here from another blog, new to this blog, and just want to say that I'm very sorry for your loss.

SerenityByJan said...

Hello, Stephen and all of Emilie's friends: My story on Emilie is in today's St. Paul Pioneer Press. You can read it here: http://www.twincities.com/ci_11319528?nclick_check=1

-- Molly Millett

Glenna said...

Emilie's last article on Joy in Catholic Spirit was the most beautiful & real reflection that I've ever read on this beautiful & real topic.
Prayers for her & you from Memphis, TN.

docamj said...

Words are so inadequate at this time. I am newly diagnosed with adenosarcoma and read about one who lived well through the words she leaves behind. It is helpful beyond expression to hear the story of one who has so eloquently shared her journey. May you and your sons be comforted!

Billy said...

So sorry for your lost.
May Emile rest in peace.

Jen said...

Steve, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys.
Jen

Donna said...

I didn't know Emilie personally, but I will never forget her. My thoughts and prayers are with your and your beautiful boys.

LisaShaw said...

It's my first time here...and I want to say how sorry and saddened I am for you Steve and your sons. I pray the comfort, peace and love of the Lord Jesus Christ to embrace you and your children during this time. God bless you.

Christina said...

I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my prayers

sara said...

I am so sorry...lots of prayers to you and your family..

Pat Norby said...

I am so sorry Steve. Thank you for allowing me to have some time with Emilie on Tuesday. I know how precious those minutes were. God bless you and the boys. Bruce and I are praying for you.

Max Fischer said...

We mourn the loss of a gifted writer and fellow blogger. I'm so very sorry for your loss.

tonya said...

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My prayers will be with you and your family.

Anonymous said...

My condolences to you and yours during this time. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace Emilie

dana said...

My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult of times.

May you find comfort and peace in our Lord's loving arms.

Rachel said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Know that God is with you always.

I was following Emilie's blog for the past year. I'm saddened to learn of this news. I am sure she touched a lot of people through her blogs. She was a great writer. The quote she left was beautiful too.

You and your family will be in my prayers.

Ordinary Mom said...

I am so sorry. I have been reading this blog for almost a year now and am I so saddened to hear this. We will be praying for you and your family!

The Potts Family

jjettison said...

It's a rare and beautiful thing to face death with Emilie's grace and honesty. I'm glad I got to know her a little thru the Pioneer Press story and her blog. Much as she cringed upon hearing people call her "strong" for living with cancer, there is a definite strenth in holding out hope of seeing ones grandkids and the sunny side of 70, a strength of imagination. And announcing to the world you've entered hospice and most likely the final chapter of life is courageous in any book. I'm guessing it was her faith that allowed her to plumb such depths of feeling, a gift of God she passed on for the benefit of others.

♥Joy♥ said...

My prayers will continue to be with you & your family. I had held out hope that I wouldn't read these words and I can only say that I am saddened at the loss of such a wonderful woman, loving wife, and devoted mother. I have only been following this blog a year or so now, but every word etched in this blog is permanently etched in my heart & soul.
Emilie always had the perfect words to say, I feel very honored to have been reading this blog. I wish your family peace & strength in the road ahead...
~Joy

Kara said...

Steve,
My heart breaks for you and your sweet boys. I "knew" your beautiful wife through an infertility board and loved reading her blog. My heart broke when I logged on and read this post. I'm so, so sorry.

Kara
Saratoga, WY

Glitter & Bliss said...

I am so sorry for your loss, but find comfort in knowing that you will be reunited again. God bless you and your little boys...

Tina said...

Steve and Family:
Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. Emily and her beautiful words will be missed. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your boys. Emily left a beautiful legacy.
Tina Johnson

Tina said...

Steve and Family:
Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. Emily and her beautiful words will be missed. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your boys. Emily left a beautiful legacy.
Tina Johnson

natalie said...

I can only say that Emily was an amazing person and that I hope you always keep that in your heart always. xo xo

Leah Scott said...

I am so very sorry. I am glad that you were with her and I hope that God gives you the comfort and peace that you need. My prayers are with you and your precious boys. Your wife will be greatly missed and I am so glad that this blog will be available for the kids to have to look at some day. May she rest in peace in Heaven.

Unknown said...

thoughts and prayers for you and your family at a time words are not enough. God bless you and your family and may the God of all comfort say what no person on this earth can to your heart.

Kristen said...

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family.

I am new to Emilie's blog but I can tell from the little I've read that she was something special. She will be mourned.

hope548 said...

I am truly sorry for your great loss. I only stopped by for the first time last week, coming from another blog. Emilie sounds like an amazing person and it seems that you have a beautiful family. I wish you strength, peace, and comfort in your loved ones and in your memories of her.

Jessica White said...

I'm so sorry for you loss: You and your boys are in my thoughts and prayers.

Michele Arrandale said...

Steve:

Someone at work passed along the news about the loss of Emilie. I'm so sorry to hear this news. Although we worked together I have to say I had no clue what you must have been dealing with day to day outside of work. Sometimes we get too wrapped up in work and forget the personal touch. You always kept a positive outlook at work and always delivered on your promises on the short time I've worked with you. You're a person that I can see is very strong and was there for your wife. You are a strong person and someone that I admire. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I've passed your website to all my family and friends so they can be reminded of how precious life is.

In my thoughts and prayers,

Michele Arrandale

Unknown said...

I am so sorry to learn of Emilie's passing. I learned of her journey from my daughter-in-law, Roxane K. and I have been following her journey through her blog. She displayed amazing courage and tenacity. I will continue to remember you and your sons in my daily prayers. May God's peace surround you during this difficult time. Judi Klepperich

Good Egg Hatched said...

I only recently came across Emilie's blog and was deeply touched by her story, by her bravery, and by the outpouring of love she elicited from those who knew her closely and those who came across her story as I did. I am so saddened to learn of her passing and I wish you and your boys peace and comfort in the days to come. May God hold you close and give you strength.

Marketing Mama said...

I've been compiling a list of articles and quotes about Emilie on my blog for those who are interested:

http://missymarketingmama.blogspot.com/2008/12/emilie-in-news.html

Unknown said...

Dear Steve,

Thank you for this post. Please take strength from the knowledge that through the love of God and the sheer force of will all things can be endured.

As a fellow survivor (my mother passed away in 2006 after a two year battle with cancer) my advice to you in this time is to keep yourself as busy as possible. This is especially important as the immediate turmoil winds down.

I will pray for God to bless you and your family and for your strength.

It is very selfish, but I'd like to thank you and Emilie for this blog. Your wife has shown me what my own mother may have felt, which is an invaluable gift and blessing.

With much love,

Shelley

Nikki said...

I don't believe I can leave a word, or comment on here that hasn't been said. What I can leave you with is a poem, that I think Emilie might have found beautiful & profound.

I am so sorry for your loss. I heard about her amazing story today and finished her blog today as well. You have 2 amazing young boys and I hope you realize how much you have touched everyone by sharing this story.

I read of a man who stood to speak

at the funeral of a friend.

He referred to the dates on his tombstone

from the beginning to the end.

He noted that first came the date of birth

and spoke the following date with tears,

but he said what mattered most of all

was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time

that he spent alive on earth

And now only those who loved him

know what that little line is worth.

-unknown

Unknown said...

You don't know me, but my heart aches for you Steve, and for your two darling boys. I just heard of Emilie's blog yesterday, and read it all. Emilie sure was a beautiful writer. And the positive attitudes are very enlightening.
I lost my brother (age 34) this past April to Leukemia. Cancer is the worst thing ever.
I hope coping can come as easy as possible to your family. You all have a lot of love surrounding you.

Peace to you all...

Carrie H.

Stephanie Jean-Louis said...

I am so, so sorry.

Unknown said...

I came accross your blog just now...
How devastating! My prayers are with you and yours!! God is by your side.
I am sure that you hear this often, If I can help I would LOVE to!!
Much Love
Rebecca

Waiting Amy said...

I am so sorry for your family's loss. I was so touched by Emilie's words and quiet dignity. May peace come to your family in time.

Anonymous said...

I had just found Emilie, and she and your family have been in my prayers ever since. I am so sorry for your loss. She is at peace now and no longer suffering. I will keep you and your boys in my thoughts during this difficult time.

Kork said...

Stephen - I cannot begin to express my condolences for your loss...My prayers are with you and your little ones through this time.

May God wrap you in His embrace and hold your heart close to his, and catch your tears.

francis said...

Steve, I am moved in spirit to join you and your family in mourning Emilie, and I will hold you up in my prayers.

F Toms

livingoprah said...

This is my first time visiting this blog and as I read, my initial thought was, "I wish I could have known Emilie in person." What a smart, funny, loving, clever, (the list goes on and on) woman. And holy cow - what a talented writer! She's touched me very deeply with her powerful words and wickedly funny sense of humor.

My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
Best to you,
Robyn

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry.

I've written and deleted five other sentences and that is the only one that still makes sense.

Morningtempest said...

My deepest sympathy is extended to her family and friends. I will keep you and the boys in my thoughts and prayers.

Julie
NC

SerenityByJan said...

Hello, Stephen:

I just published another blog entry about Emilie and the reaction I've received to the story:

http://blogs.twincities.com/dailyjuggle/2008/12/emilies_hightide.html

-- Molly Guthrey Millett

annacyclopedia said...

Emilie, thank you for sharing your journey and your wisdom with the world. I hope the transition was filled with as much peace as possible. Wishing healing and peace to Steve and your boys and holding you all in my prayers.

fatheranthonyho said...

Sorry for the sad news. I will remember her at Mass. God bless you and your 2 boys.

Theresa said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I just came across this blog, but it's obvious the gift you've had with Emilie.

Peace to you and your family.

Turia said...

Dear Steve, Daniel and Ben,

All my words seem inadequate. I am so sorry.

Jeannie said...

oh my God, Stephen. I'm so very sorry to hear this. I know that cancer can be sudden but I was praying for another couple of weeks for your family. Prayers are sent up for you, and the boys. I know that Emilie is in a better place, and I will pray for your strength as you go on to raise those beautiful boys.
May God be with you, always!
Gloria Carpenter

Cathy the Spherical said...

Steve -
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers go out to you and your boys. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.

I work at FHI, in compounding, where the homepumps are made, and where there's little patient contact. Emilie's story is a poignant reminder of why I chose a job without banker's hours. Thank you.

Your family's willingness to share your journey is a tremendous gift to the world. Emilie was a perfect example of "dying with dignity." May God bless you, and comfort you.

Jenny said...

Emilie was a beautiful spirit. I feel like I know her, even though I will never meet her. She is so alive through her words, and reading her blog over the past few days has been a lot like reading a good book.... hard to put down for very long, I haven't been able to stay away for long. I admire her courage, her spirit, her honesty. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones. May God bless you with His peace and comfort you with the knowledge that there is a life after this one. And Emilie must surely be enjoying that life right now. God bless.

Bea said...

I am so sorry for this loss. I wish everyone peace.

Bea

Steve said...

Kyrie eleison.

Louise K said...

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and the children.I would like to share a poem I wrote for a special friend I was blessed to have in my life.

Angel With Broken Wings


I asked the lord to send me an angel to love me and be at my side, to understand and care for me, to hold my hand when I am feeling down, to listen and laugh with me, to be true to me and never leave my side -
The lord listened to my prayer and sent me an angel, she was beautiful and sweet and kind – her smile took my breath away!
My angel the lord had given me so beautiful, sweet and kind her smile so sweet it took my breath away....But oh my angel did not have wings – my beautiful angel could not fly!
Why oh why my lord, an angel with no wings?
The lord smiled and said to me “My child you asked for one that will be for you and only you, one that will love you, stay by your side, hold your hand and never leave you alone?
Well I chose the best that I had , took off her wings and kept them with me - that way she will never leave you, she will always be at your side, will love you forever and you my dear child, will have to carry her wherever you go....”


Louise Koorbanally - South Africa

Anonymous said...

Blessings to those beautiful boys and their loving father. I am bawling for a woman I never knew and the family she left behind.

It is a great spiritual challenge to figure out what exactly is our legacy as a parent. My brush with death from my second pregnancy kept me frozen, but she was able to write it all out...what a gift indeed.

Brian Sullivan said...

Steve, Emilie's story reminds me of my mom who died of cancer at age 90 almost 2 years ago. Not doubt that the end of my mom's life was "one of the most amazing and spiritual times of [her] life." And of mine as I was able to with her as she died, as you were with Emilie. Truely a sacred moment. You are in my prayers.

Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of the Snow, receive Emilie into your care.

Yeah So said...

I don't know Emilie, and to be honest, didn't even know about her blog. But I came here through another link and found that she passed on Christmas Eve. Funny, a loved one of mine also passed on Christmas Eve, after a terrible battle with cancer (following a previous illness which resulted in her losing her hands). It made me picture God sweeping his hands down from heaven and bringing up a whole group of sufferers up to heaven. That picture is comforting to me, as I hope it might be to you. I wish you peace of mind and love of family during this awful, terrible, horrible time. God Bless

Jodie Andrefski said...

I am so sorry for your loss Steve. Emilie touched me so much in the little I knew her when writing her story. I could feel the love the two of you shared, and the love for your boys. She humbled me.

Your family is in my prayers.

Victoria said...

Stephen - condolences and continuing prayers for you and the boys and all who iss Emilie. I know her only through her writing and respect her deeply from what she wrote. You too. My husband Kerry died at 36, 22 years ago and I want to share a poem about part of how that was for us, because it seems to echo the way you describe Emilie's passing and your part in int.

Thank You

I sobbed against your chest. "I can't live without you."
You knew I had to. You assured me I’d do a damn good job
of living without you, told me you hoped marriage with you
had been so very wonderful I would choose to love,
live, hope, laugh, marry again. You never let me know if you
regretted the years you wouldn't have, never moaned you
wouldn't dance at our daughters' weddings, rock grand babies
who had your eyes. You kept your vows, released me with love.
I told you yes I would raise the girls as we had begun,
in hope, awe, adventure, curiosity, dreams, open hearted.
I would live, not die. I told you to stop fighting death, witnessed
your last breath, kept my vows, released you with love.


Victoria Hendricks, November, 2008

Unknown said...

Stephen: I didn't read your wife's blog while she was writing it, but have read some of the press about her since she passed away. I lost my wife 2 1/2 years ago to breast cancer and am now raising our two young kids (ages 5 and 8) in Saint Paul. Not sure exactly what help I might be able to be, but if you'd like to connect with someone who has been (and continues to go) through something like you're going through, please reach out. My name is Kent Pekel and the best way to reach me is Pekel@umn.edu. My prayers and best wishes are with you and the kids and everyone else who loved Emilie.
- Kent

the DeAngelo ohana said...

It is with tears that i write this. i am so sorry. please please let us know if there is anything we can do. i am praying for you guys.

pve design said...

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Susical26 said...

Thank you for being so brave for your wife and children. I pray that you are getting help through these dark days. I pray that you feel Emilie's presence. I will pray for all of you. I read about her passing in the Catholic Spirit and haven't been able to stop thinking about you and your family since. May God bless you.

Adulio said...

Recquiescant in pace

Tara said...

So sorry to hear of your loss--what a brave lady to share all with the world-

John Paul Sonnen said...

Requiem Mass will be offered for her sweet soul in the Holy City of Rome at the parish church of the Santissima Trinita' dei Pellegrini.

Anonymous said...

Praise God she is resting peacefully. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

statmom said...

I just came across this blog today. What a heartbreaking story. I am so sorry for your loss. From what I read, Emilie was a wonderful wife and mother. I will be thinking of you in the coming months.

I did want to share one observation. I think it was in her FAQ she mentioned that there were few people that commented on this forum. I find it a little bittersweet and quite ironic that after her passing she is flooded with hundreds of comments.

marniebcn said...

May Mary the most merciful Virgin Mother of God, kindest comforter of them that mourn, commend to her Son the soul of this His handmaid, that through her maternal intercession, she may overcome the dread of death and, with her as guide, joyfully reach his her longed-for home in the heavenly fatherland. Amen.

Anonymous said...

Emilie, I miss you so. I miss your blog and the emails I was lucky enough to share with you. If I feel bereft, I can only imagine you your family are feeling. I know you are at peace now, but I still miss you. xxxx

Amy said...

Steve - In case you are reading this, we think about you and the boys every day and say a prayer for you.

It was good to speak with you at the funeral and I'm glad Gerald and I were home to be able to support you and everyone that mourns Emilie's loss. The funeral was beautiful and so meaningful.

I keep thinking that Emilie will post something new... how I wish that was the case.

May God continue to hold you in his arms.

Amy & Gerald

Lisa said...

Oh, big sigh. Steve, if you're reading this, know that we're all still thinking of you and the boys. I still keep checking the blog, hoping for an update to let us know how you're doing...and yes, I do realize that's very selfish of me. I'm sorry. You're often in my thoughts, and as I'm sure most of us feel, I still check in hoping for another post, knowing that sadly, that's not going to happen.

kate hopper said...

Oh my, I am so sorry. I've been out of blog-reading mode for a few weeks, so I didn't know until now. (But you all were never out of my thoughts.) I am so, so sorry. I didn't know Emilie in person, but I felt as though I did.

My thoughts are with you all. I'm sorry.

In Due Time said...

Steve and family, please know you are in my prayers as Emilie's birthday nears. ((Hugs))

Cara said...

Steve - Thinking of you on this very difficult day. Hoping you found some quiet time to spend with Emilie's memory.

wiebke said...

happy birthday Emilie. Thinking of you.

Michele (Moosh) said...

Emilie, I will look at my daughter who turned four today--on your birthday--and remember you.

I will remember your life *every* year that I celebrate with my daughter.

Steve, may God be with you and the boys.

Queenie. . . said...

I'm thinking of you and the boys today, Steve, and remembering Emilie on her birthday. Her words touched many, including me, and I think of her wisdom often these days, as I consider many things in my own life.

..al said...

Here from LFCA...Came to know that it would have been her birthday this week.

Praying for everyone...

The Gale Family said...

I heard about this story from Linda's blog and oh my heart goes out to your family. This sweet lady touched more people than she may have guessed. I pray for your family, may you ultimately find Peace.
Bless you,
Wendi

K~ said...

Steve
I wanted you to know that you and the boys remain in my prayers.
Kathy

Unknown said...

steve,

sarcoma took my wife 10 years ago. my children were 10, 12 and 18. i have missed her everyday since she died. i have asked her advice on child raising often. she answers! we talked of the kids and the future so much in the two years between diagnosis and death, that she was still there to help me, i knew what she would have done in the situations i was facing.

the kids have grown strong and accomplished, one is in medical school, the next in engineering graduate school and the third a college junior. they are the meaning of life. each of them has her traits. god blessed me with her and them.

life will be difficult, but let your kids save you. they will teach you more about family and being a father than you can teach them about how to be a kid. let your wife guide you on your trials as a single parent.

the easter after she died in march, i asked the kids if we were still a family. each of them looked at me with shock and emphatically said, "Of course." i have been complimented many times on the kids. i know in my heart my kids should be complimented for saving me.

after being alone for many years i proposed to the woman in my life two weeks ago. she said yes. once again, my kids have supported me by expressing their happiness that i have found someone and happiness the family has grown

the journey will be difficult, but it will be good. your wife will wish for your happiness. it will come

Larry

Lerin said...

My family is praying for you, Daniel, Ben, and also for Emilie. I am so very sorry for your pain.

Anne said...

Steve, may God bless you and your family. You are all in my prayers. Emilie has touched so many of us.

LIW (Lady In Waiting) said...

I just found this blog through another blogger and my heart literally broke when I read your post. I am sooooo sorry for your loss and can only imagine your pain and anguish.....

Lady in Waiting
XOXO

Michele (Moosh) said...

I still check this blog every.single.day.
Can't believe you're gone.

K~ said...

Just to let you know you are still thought of often.

Jeannie said...

I hope your family is well. I still check in weekly to see how things are with Steve and the boys. God Bless you!

kristine said...

I swore I saw you last weekend when I was leaving Bismark bakery. Even though I knew you weren't here, I still turned around so fast because I was damn-near positive it was you. I hate this.

clairesd said...

I read Emilie's blog over a year ago. I did not know she had passed away. Saying prayers for you and the boys.

Nissa Nicole said...

What is it, nine months? I miss you, Emilie. I hope you are well out there...

Mom said...

I am writing on July 18, 2009. I did not have the honor of knowing Emilie personally, but she leaves a very great legacy. Her writings inspire me today to be more present and alive today, and tomorrow, to savor as deeply as possible the love of my husband and son. To seek joy in simple things. Dearest Emilie, you inspire me here on Earth with your exquisite writings made through your incredible living and passing. May God honor the work you have done here, and grace your wonderful family.

kristine said...

Haven't visited in a while I'm sorry. I drove past your house last week on my way to school. I don't know what I was hoping for. Maybe I was just wishing you'd be outside with the boys - smiling like you always were. Miss you.

Andrea said...

still thinking of you all.

Agape said...

I miss you Emilie and think of you and your family often. I wonder how your boys and your husband are doing. I am praying for them.

K~ said...

I just thought of Emilie today and felt compelled to leave a message. I hope that Steve and the boys are well and still feeling the love and support of Emilie's readers.

Amy said...

Steve - Just wanted to let you know that I continue to think of you the boys often. I think of Emilie too - she had such a profound impact on those around her.

ScreenPrinter said...

Thinking of you today.

kristine said...

You were on my mind today..

Alex said...

Thinking of your family this week. I hope you and your boys are doing well.

Anonymous said...

You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you and the boys are doing okay xxxx

caro said...

Thinking about you and the boys today, Steve, and hoping you are all healthy healthy and well.

Much love and strenght to you from Germany,
Caro

Jen J said...

Thinking of you this week Steve & boys. Emilie is not forgotten.

k@lakly said...

Thinking of you, your boys and the beautiful Emilie and hoping that you will feel close to her, especially now.

Meg said...

Remembering you, your wife, and your sons today. May her memory be eternal!

K~ said...

Thinking of Steve and the boys and especially of Emilie

Amy said...

Steve, not sure if you'll see this or not but just wanted to let you know your family is in my thoughts & prayers on this day. Much love,
Amy (a cyber-friend of Emilie's)

Carey said...

Thinking of you all today. You are in my prayers.

Athanasia said...

Memory Eternal for Emilie!

Christ's Love and Peace on this one year (plus 1) anniversary.

Lisa said...

I couldn't get back here on the 24th but I was thinking of Emilie that day. She is not forgotten.

Mo said...

Steve,

Just writing in to say that Emily is not forgotten, not by a long shot, even by those of us who never got a chance to meet her in person. Abiding with you a year since your loss.

Mo

loribeth said...

I too have been thinking about Emilie, especially at Christmastime.

Jo on the go said...

Happy birthday, Em. I miss you so. Liz is here to visit. She and I both had dreams about you this week. She wore her *uck cancer hat today. I hope you're in a good place. Misses and kisses.

Amy said...

Steve - We still hold you and the boys in our thoughts and prayers. Emilie is certainly still missed by many. God Bless.

kerry said...

I am thinking of you still, as tomorrow would be your birthday. I am a better person for having had the opportunity to know you, and I miss you immensely. You always knew what to say to help me find some peace. Thank you Emilie.

ScreenPrinter said...

Still thinking of Emilie, Steve and the kids.

A & J said...

I thought of Emilie today and just wanted to stop by and let you know.

caro said...

Thinking about you, Stephen, and the boys these days. Much love to you all.

Unknown said...

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Anonymous said...

This is such a heart breaking story. It's never easy to loose someone most especially she's so dear to you. I wish you well Steve. Thanks for sharing your blog.

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From time to time, I check-out Emilie's blog. I miss just knowing she's around. Emilie was a great, great lady, and a great influence on anyone who's ever met her! She had a smile that could light up a room, a great sense of humor, and a way about her that never ever seemed to judge anyone. I'm so glad that she found Steve, and I'm so glad she and Steve brought two beautiful sons into this world! I'll always miss her, and I'll always be happy that I met her! Ben, Daniel, and Steve, my (very, very) belated condolences. Emilie was and is special, but you guys know that better than anyone!

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