It's been 2 years. . . remembering Mark

It has been two years since Mark passed away from this life and into heaven.  We still miss him so much.  But here are some of my favorite memories of him:

Mark and Evette flew into Jackson to surprise Aaron on his 21st birthday.

Mark and Evette visited Jackson and celebrated my birthday.  I think this was the first year we were married.

Together again in Virginia- at Jamestown- in 2006.

Mark and Aaron in Lake City in 2009.  Mark was so patient while trying to teach me to fly fish :)

This was in March 2010- we drove to Colorado to introduce Hannah to her Papa Mark and all the rest of the Gentrys.

Today I am a little teary-eyed thinking about all the love and joy that Hannah will miss out on from her Papa.  But Mark will be forever in our hearts and lives.  Hannah can now pick him out in pictures and that makes things pretty special.

Kitchen Aid mixer and memories

I walk by my Kitchen Aid mixer about a million times a day.  It is still on the floor next to the front door just waiting for a home in the kitchen!  That is not really the point here.  Like I said, I walk by it a million times a day, but today was different.  It started off a train of thoughts that led to tears.  Kitchen Aid mixer- "A Baker's Christmas" on the tablecloth- hmmm, I wonder what I will write this year- what in the world can we possibly write after a year like this?- "welcome Hannah Catherine and Piper Jane"- and finally: "we sure miss Mark."

Yes, I am sure missing Mark today.  But Hannah's sweet cuddles and jibber-jabber are a comfort.  Hoping this isn't too silly or emotional for everyone.  Just thought I would share what is on my heart today.

A Reluctant Farewell: Mark Gentry, 1951-2010

Mark died just a short while ago.  We rejoice in his reunion with the Savior. 

Here is a quote a found from a book I read that sums up what I am feeling right now:  "Those of us who remain live and learn and grow more like the Savior.  Through love, we experience joy and sorrow.  We weep when our hearts grow too full for words and we celebrate with those who rejoice.  We bid reluctant farewells, entrusting much loved souls to the Father's care, and we extend our hands to the new members of the family."

Pray for Evette.  Pray for all of us Gentrys.  We don't know any details yet, but pray for traveling arrangements as well. 

Pray for Mark

Dear friends,
Please pray for my father-in-law Mark.  It has been a pretty rough day.  We are waiting to hear what the hospice workers have to say and what can be done for some sudden new symptoms.
Thank you,
Leslie

Hannah and the Grandparents, Part 2

Here is Hannah posing with her paternal grandparents, Nana and Papa, when we were in Colorado.

Valentine's Special: Mark

Valentine's Special Edition Day 4 honors my father-in-law Mark.  Most of you may know that Mark has been battling cancer for the past few years.  This is his second occurance of it and he also has a heart condition.  Mark has been a model of Christian character throughout his treatments.  He has been a testimony to all and very courageous. 

I have never lived near Mark and usually only see him once a year.  I usually feel like I am the Gentry who knows Mark the least, but there some things I know for sure: I do know that he is a great husband.  He is a great father.  And he is an excellent grandfather.  I know that Kirst and I have been greatly blessed to have him as our father-in-law.

While I don't see him often and seldom even talk to him, I pray for Mark everyday.  He has been an encourager to me and Aaron throughout our marriage and I hope our prayers lift him up now.  I love you Mark.