I met Uncle Ron and Cousin Theresa in August of 1975 in Yakima at Kermit's house. I was re-acquainted with Auntie Anne after 15 years... Theresa was about 3 years old then--and a handful. They shared her story. What I saw however was a young girl with an incredible smile and dancing eyes. She could focus and engage. Later I came to understand she acquired that ability from her Dad. When they placed her on a blanket on the floor, I got down and talked to her.
Ron and Anne with Theresa was always a wonder, and also a learning experience. Their love and care was from the depths of their heart--and completely natural... there was no ruing her physical condition--they and others came to understand that Theresa was as perfect as God could make her. If she "was different" then the Love she allowed others to experience would not be the same. Listening to her caretakers from the Selah School reinforced that.
When I met Ron he had the Wolverine Sideburns look going on--you can see it in the family pic. He loved his blended family and thought of all as His kids. My interactions with him over the years almost always left me thinking about how Grounded he was. He accepted whatever Life sent his way with a calm equanimity that was refreshing. In conversation with him--he focused on You--he was not thinking of the next thing he had to do--he was Present...  Theresa had that quality also.  And he could sing--rarely solo--but in a group he helped make them ALL sound better.  As an Orchardist, he used examples of growing trees as life metaphors--pruning, caring, nurturing...and then reaping the rewards. In later years, caring for Anne, he continued that...striving to do the right thing...
Uncle Ron and Cousin Theresa are now travelling to that land from whose bourne no man or woman returns...But they are at peace...and we will meet again....

Auntie Anne, 

I just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and I love you ❤️ 

Dena 

Kim and Gary -

So sorry I won’t be able to attend but I’m sending Love and Hugs to. I loved your Dad and will always remember his sweet smile!  He will be missed♥️

Love ~ Tina (cousin)