Lee Allen Ross
July 26, 1907 - May 17, 2008

Lorraine's Eulogy

A Letter to My Dad

May 19, 2008

Dear Dad,

As I sit at my desk tonight, my computer screensaver cycles through its hundreds of pictures.
I see a racehorse striving for the finish line; a calm, peaceful lake in the Alps;
a 1957 Bel-Air Chevy; a covered bridge in Vermont.
And then—a picture of you.

You are working on a project in your shop.
I see your face, and I am filled with warmth.
I am saddened that there will be no more cedar windmills,
but grateful for all the treasures you have left us.

My sister, Glenda, and I were the luckiest daughters in the world.
We always knew how special you are.

I think of words to describe you: Not only strong, courageous, hard-working, inventive, adventurous.
But also soft, gentle, patient, kind, loyal, thoughtful, friend.
You and Mom made our home a refuge, a warm, nurturing fun-loving environment.

I remember you and wonder what you have become.

Perhaps the song of the morning birds that you loved to feed and watch,
the light from the full moon that shines now through my bedroom window,
the rainbow after a Nebraska storm, or
the final rays of the setting sun over the meadow below Mount Hope.

I miss your being, but I feel your presence,
in whatever form you choose to take,
however you choose to be.
I remember you.
You are with me.
And I am not afraid.

Your loving daughter,

Lorraine

A Knotty Piner Production