I just got back to Flagstaff after a short visit to Rapid City. My high school friends Leslee (Wallis) and Barry Best were going through end of life decisions with their Dad Glenn. I was glad I could be there for support and assistance.
Their parents, Glenn and Besty, have always welcomed me into their home. Not just me, but many of Leslee and Barry's friends were given that same open door welcome. Les and I stayed friends over the years, so I was able to stay close to Glenn and Betsy too. We shared many of life's peak moments and a good share of valleys as well.
One of my most treasured Glenn moments was from 2001 when my Dad was dying. I needed a break and went out to Leslee's but she wasn't there. Her husband Steve Wallis and Glenn were there though, and both gave me the kind of bear hug the family is known for. When you are hugged by a Best (or a Wallis!) you are hugged to your soul; it is a most comforting place to be. The moments we shared gave me the strength to head back to Dad's bedside and let him go.
My relationship to Glenn, though incredibly special, was not unique. He and Betsy have a lifetime of others with stories similar to mine--how the Bests touched their lives, filled a special niche, and never asked for anything in return for their generosity.
So, back to the story. Leslee called and said Glenn was reaching the end of life, and I was able to work out the logistics, so I went to RC for a couple of days. During that time I also got to visit with other friends, went up to the folks' graves, met my newest grandniece Rachel, and celebrated sister Phyllis' birthday. Whew!
The main focus of the trip was to help my Best friends with whatever they needed. They were able to get Glenn into hospice and he was able to pass away at Leslee's home today. His bed was placed near a window, so he could see the beloved land on Nemo Road. I do so admire them for getting all that done for Glenn, and his passing was peaceful. What an act of love and devotion they showed, being able to meet his final needs.
I've posted a few pictures of Glenn and family, so you can see this wonderful bunch of folks. Keep them all in your prayers as they grieve the loss, but celebrate the birth of heaven's newest (and most feisty!) angel. Rest in peace, dear Glenn.
