Farewell to Aunt Katie

We were scheduled to drive to SLC to watch Lydia's triumphant commencement at Miss "Lie's" pre-school, when an unexpected turn of events occurred. I received notice that my dad's sibling, Katie Eves Schroder Bennett, had passed. She was nearly 90 years old.

My dad was the oldest of 11 children and Aunt Katie was number four child. I have lots of memories of this woman of diminutive stature but gigantic heart. Of course, our family moved from Utah valley in 1955, and from that point on, my interaction with my dad's sisters who maintained residences in Utah county was restricted to the annual summer pilgrimage to reacquaint and renew. We stayed with Aunt Katie many, many times. Sometimes sleeping on the back lawn, sometimes in the house. Aunt Katie, like most of Dad's sisters, was a world class home cook. She feed everyone and everything that came within her sphere. It was always delicious, promptly provided, and plentiful. It was at Aunt Katie's that I first tasted bottled venison and trout, discovered the bounties of the orchard and garden, and began my love affair with a wide variety of sweet, nut-breads.

I used to think that my Aunt Katie must really love my Dad, and by association, love me. At first I was a little disillusioned to discover that she treated everyone in the same royal manner she treated us. But as I matured, I realized that this kind, generous, and infinitely giving woman was a walking, talking, angel of mercy who also happened to be my auntie. Although I haven't seen a lot of her the past 10 years, she has been in my heart and certainly in my mind.

There was viewing in Orem on Wednesday evening that we attended with Babs and family and Jason, Liza and the boys. We had hoped to connect with some family, but most were traveling and not in attendance. We did reconnect with Aunt Katie's two daughters Margie and Rose Mary. They didn't initially know who I was, and certainly didn't know my kids, but by the end of the evening I had met their children who were in attendance.

There was another viewing at 9:45 AM, immediately prior to the funeral. Trisha stayed in Sugarhouse and attended the planned commencement, and I drove to American Fork in order to be in attendance. I saw three of four of Dad's living siblings who were also in attendance. While we only spoke briefly, it was good for me to reconnect. The only other representatives from our immediate family was Uncle Phil and Aunt Karen. Following the graveside, we went to lunch together, deciding that ham and funeral potatoes should be reserved for the immediate family.

The entire event reminded me that I am moving rapidly toward the end of my life. As I watch the people who had such an influence in shaping my youthful attitudes pass on, I am faced with the inevitability of my own mortality. I am not throwing in the towel, I can assure you, but I take this opportunity to thank the good Lord for my progenitors and the legacy of love they have provided to me.

Buboppy