Grandma Beth Martini

Last Sunday Dave's Grandma; Beth McPherson Martini passed away after a wonderfully blessed long life, the last 13 years of it without her sweetheart; Edward "Whitey" Martini. When the news first came we were initially excited because she spent the last 4-5 years of her life in pain dealing with an aging body and mind. As the immediate days passed we slowly became more and more sad as we remembered her influence in our lives. Dave was very blessed to have grandparents who loved him and welcomed him into their home.

Even though it is very common where we live, it is something we might take for granted and Dave and I are grateful that Whitey and Beth were such great parents and examples to their two boys; Ed and Robert, and other children and grandchildren. In turn, Ed, their son and Dave's father, was a wonderful father. We're so happy that they are now able to enjoy each other; Whitey, Beth, and Ed.

Our little family, but not feeling so little anymore.

Mandolin, Bevan (6 months), Dave

Halen (6), Brigden (3), and Harris (5)

What a beautiful moment! I asked the children to sit down by the flowers as we arrived at the funeral home. Then I asked Halen to put her arms around Brigden and immediately all three lifted up their arms and tried to wrap them all around each other. Ok, so maybe all the hours of preparation to get them dressed up was worth this wonderful moment!

The majority of the Ed & Marlene Family

The Ed & Marlene Martini Family: Alicia, Jan, Marlene, Brian, Dave, & Stephen. Ed passed in 2002 and Nathan was unable to attend.

Whitey & Beth's son Robert & his wife Dixie. We love her caramel popcorn and Dave has very fond memories of camping with them throughout his youth. They are of the few people that Dave will play cards with.

The Robert & Dixie Martini family

Even though funerals and passings are difficult, and especially because Dave and I have both lost a parent already, I'm growing to love them because they remind me of the promises of the hereafter! I look forward to passing someday and being with my mother and other family members. I did, however, say "someday" though because for right now I am very happy where I am!