I was on the road that day (January 29th, 2024) and my cell rang.  I pulled over to take the call from the Kearney County Attorney.   She called to say they finally have a cause of death for you and that we'd have your death certificate within a couple of weeks.   I quietly asked her if she could share cause of death with me or did she need to speak to my niece?  She said, "No, I can tell you. Your brother's cause of death was sepsis, caused by an eruption of an abscess in his prostate."

I replied something like, Wow, oh wow, I don't know what to say".   She and I politely bantered back and forth for a bit and then we ended our call.

Then I called Kate and let her know.  We had a very long conversation.  As much as we were relieved to know,  we both had a variety of emotions and a lot of regrets at not being able to convince you to go to the doctor.     But, we realize you were an adult and had the ultimate power to make your own choices.    

I guess for all these days since January 29th, I've been processing and more importantly, I've been missing you.   I miss you everyday.  I love you brother!  

And to anyone reading this, my apologies to you for it taking me so long to get the word out.   I know we are not the only ones shocked by Royce's death and I pray our Lord's love envelopes you and brings you peace.   

~Wanda~