A Memorial

We just attended a funeral service for Randy Harrison, Ron's first cousin.  He was 51 years old, a father, husband, brother, cousin, uncle, nephew. Randy served as a manager in the Air Force for 28 years. He was a division chief in the fire department at Edwards Air Force Base in California. His life cut short all too soon. 


As families go, we lose touch over time.  When we come together for times such as this, we regret we weren't more attentive.  We hug each other, comfort those who are grieving deeply.  We marvel at how much the children have grown, and how little we know who they are.  We exchange phone numbers and make our heartfelt invitations to visit.  Family becomes more precious than we realize at any other time.  We spend time remembering.

Randy was brought to Portland from Southern California.  He is buried near his parents at Washington Memorial. The officer who escorted his body all those miles expressed how respected and honored Randy's remains were treated.  View this link, Taking Chance, for a snapshot of a journey we don't normally see or even know exists.  This story reaches deep in our very heart and soul for those who serve so selflessly in the front lines of duty.


We will miss one more who served so devotedly.