Condolence: Dear Philip, Cathy, and David,

You probably don't remember me, but oh, how I remember you! When you were just 1, 2, and 3 years old, I began babysitting for you. I hadn't known your family only a short time when your dad was diagnosed with cancer. When I was in 9th grade your dad had to once again be admitted to the hospital, and then your mom was in a car wreck and also needed to be in the hospital...no one was left to take care of you!! So, I came to stay with you...I went to school during the day and then came and got you dinner and spent the nights! Thank goodness there were wonderful neighbors, my own family, and your grandparents that helped out with the cooking:) It was the next year that we lost your dad. Your dear mom decided she needed to go back to school to get her masters, so that summer I stayed with you everyday while your mom worked so hard to be able to have a teaching job that would provide for you all. You were definitely not just a job for me...but my own family. I remember my mom coming and cleaning so carefully when we found out that one of you was allergic to dust. My dad worked to take care of your yard, along with my brother's help. Then, when I graduated from high school, your mom took us all on a trip to Hawaii for vacation (the first time I had ever flown)!! I taught each one of you how to swim (well at least you could get across the pool without sinking:)). We had such a great time together!! One night we got a hotel babysitter for you and she and I went to a luau together. I realize now that your mom and I were not that far apart in age and am really struck again by her courage to go forward after she lost your dad!!

Your mom was a strong, joyful, and determined lady! She inspired me to follow my love for children and go into the field of teaching as well. Actually, it was my love for each of you that sent me in that direction as well. I have now been teaching for 38 years:)

I am so sorry that you have lost such a precious person in your lives! I know your mom loved Jesus and is singing and dancing with your dad, and with Him, right now! I am also so glad that she got to meet and enjoy grandchildren!!

Your mom and dad, and you, have always held a special place in my heart...and always will! Both of my parents also wanted you to know how sorry they are to hear of your mom's death. We all really feel like we have lost a member of our family.

I am sending each of you a giant hug (you loved hugs and snuggles:))

With love,
Debbie (Newell) Burns
Grant and Marilyn Newell

Condolence: Dear Phil, David, and Kathy,
I called one of the breakfast group members yesterday and learned of the passing of your mom. I've lived in Kansas City for many years, but have stayed fairly current with what's going on with the Friday Breakfast group. I always enjoyed seeing your mom's smile. I'll remember her strength in raising three young children after your dad passed away. She had a passion for teaching.
May you be comforted in your memories.
Betty Birdsell Rotan

Condolence: So sorry to hear of her passing. Mrs. Shilling was an amazing teacher, and truly touched a lot of lives, including ours. She will truly be missed

Condolence: Dear Dave,

We are very sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

The Stadelmans