I'm re-reading Aunt Fern's memoir about the family and enjoying it a lot. I miss seeing her during the holidays and hearing her laugh. I'm sharing some footage of her from her own mother's birthday party in 1989.
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Fern has been on my mind lately, and now I understand why. We worked closely together at the University of Missouri-St. Louis Gender Studies Program. No one in that program was more professional, dedicated, and passionate than Fern. But what I loved most about her was her laughter and her smile. Rest in peace, Fern. May her memory be a blessing.
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Fern Flinn was a member of Saint Charles (MO) High School Class of 1955. On behalf of myself and our classmates, I offer sympathy to Fern's family and friends. An announcement of Fern's passing has been sent to classmates. Nancy Ryan Macklin, SCHS Class of '55
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I met Fern when I was 4 yrs old and she was 3 yers old. In 1940 her "Emma" ask my mother "Mary" if she would like to ride with her and family to San Francisco California? My mother was wanting to go out there to visit her Mother and Father.She said yes. Fern's father , "Doyle", was already out there working in the San Francisco ship yards.Fern's mother and my mother were life time best of friends.Emma was taking Donnie and Fern to San Francisco to join her husband Doyle. His brother Edward Posthaste was driving the car. So Fern sat up front with her mother and uncle and my mother sat in the back seat with me, my brother David and Fern's brother Donnie. We both grow up in the First Assembly of God church and were High School class mates of class 1955. Her children and sisters Dorothy and Carol please accept my deepest condolences and sympathy. I mourn over passing but love the loving memories she leaves behind. You were a fortunate person to have know Fern for your life was now nourishing and enriched.
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Fern was a beautiful person who always had a smile. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing her on campus, knowing that she would always have a kind word. I am very sorry for your loss. Your family and the campus community have lost a shining star.
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Dear Craig and Aric,
I am very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. She was such a sweet lady. I always enjoyed visiting with her. She welcomed all of Bob's family with open arms. I will miss the cards she used to send us. My favorite part was the lengthy handwritten messages. It was more than just a greeting card! It was truly heartfelt. I will always cherish the fond memories.
Rosemary Cambiano-Mreen, John Mreen, Meredith Weick and Drew Mreen
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Each time we'd meet Fern as we sat down to watch any play or ceremony featuring Alex or Sarah, Fern's “always greeting” to us was, “Aren't we lucky to share the best grandchildren in the world?” (Our quick answer, of course, was a hearty 'yes!') Fern loved her entire family and never minded showing it. That love was always the extra sparkle in her eyes.
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I met Fern when I was just 15 and because she had a big, warm, beautiful heart, she welcomed me immediately as a part of her family from the get-go. She was an amazing role model as a mom, sister, aunt, friend, and most importantly, as a strong, caring woman. She had a thoughtful and fitting phrase for most every situation, but I also think I learned most of the bad words I know listening to her talk/argue with her sons. When I was pregnant with my firstborn, I told her that I wanted to know her secret to raising children and her sage advice was, “Love them with all your heart until they are 13. They’re not going to listen to you after that.” 😊 Our family was blessed in the past year to have so much time with her. Our hearts ache without her, and yet we couldn’t be happier to think of her charming everyone in heaven just as she did here. 🧡🧡🧡
May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back.
May the sunshine warm upon your face, The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Send us a four-leaf clover, a rainbow, or just an Irish coffee, if that’s easier…. Love you, Fern. 🍀🌈
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I was blessed to have Fern as my friend since we both started working together at UMSL in 1971. I watched Craig and Aric grow into the wonderful men they have become, a tribute to Fern's attentiveness and focus on being the best mom any child could want. It was clear from the first day we met that Craig and Aric were her #1 priority. Over the years, we shared many lunches and dinners together. I can still hear her laugh and we shared lots of those too. I will miss my friend.
"Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart." (Eleanor Roosevelt) Fern was a true friend...
I loved seeing the pictures and hope that fond memories of times together with Fern will bring some comfort to her family in the days ahead.
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To Fern’s children and family: Please accept my condolences and my deepest sympathy. I was the interim writing certificate director when Fern completed her final project for the Writing Certificate. She was an inspiration..how she managed to take one college course a semester and earn her BA at an age when most people are thinking about retiring. She also was a dear colleague at UMSL and friend. The world seems less brighter with her absence. I am praying for your peace and comfort.
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I worked with Fern in the Psychology department at UMSL. She replaced me when I retired. She brought a lot of fun and energy into my life and we often went to lunch and dinner. I admired her dedication to pursuing her education goals. RIP dear Fern.
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I will never forget all the lunches we shared and fun times we had. Praying for you with the beautiful rosary you brought back from Rome.
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I loved how Aunt Fern always lit up the room with her warm, happy and vibrant personality. Always smiling, laughing and a joy to be around. Rest in peace dear Aunt Fern, may your radiant spirit continue to shine upon us.
Our hearts go out to Craig, Aric and the family.
Hugs, Marcia & Rick
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You're missed very much Aunt Fern. We know you're in heaven without a care in the world. Keep an eye on us. Until we meet again. Love you --- Tina and Emma.
Our heartfelt sympathies. Hugs to Craig, Linn, Aric, Christy, Jack, Sarah, Alex, & Lauren.
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2008, Denny & Dottie's house, O'Fallon, MO
Aunt Fern's Christmas Cheers
— with
Aunt Fern
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2005, Denny & Dottie's house
The karaoke machine always came out at our house, costumes were always part of the party, and Aunt Fern loved to participate! Here she is with my sister Tina having a good time.
— with
Aunt Fern & Tina Nelson
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