Good day to all! Just a quick update. My Aunt Jeannie's funeral celebration went fabulously! We honored her with 30-40 former students, friends and family singing and playing their hearts out at a beautiful mass at Holy Spirit this past Saturday. All the music she loved was presented, from John Rutter's "All Things Bright and Beautiful" and "Gaelic Blessing", to "Eagles Wings," "Shepherd Me O God," Mom played piano and organ; Cousin Mike played an original piece on guitar which was just beautiful. Our cousin Charlie's wonderful violin solo of "Meditation" from Thais, accompanied by his Mom, Lee Ann, and my Uncle Larry's emotionally moving solo of "The Lone Wild Bird" by David Johnson were high points as well as some of her favorite choral pieces, "Any Dream Will Do" from Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and "All Good Gifts" from Godspell. A very moving moment came when my sister Wendy sang an original song called "Just a Memory Away". The story behind this song is our great Uncle Bob Wallisch wrote this to our Grandma Gertie and read it at her funeral for part of his Eulogy. Wendy was so moved by the message, she asked him for the speech, put the words to music and had it orchestrated. She sang this for Jeannie and it was quite emotional. So many of her friends and musical colleagues attended to pay their respects and let us know what a truly special person Jeannie was. It was the most wonderful tribute that we could have possibly given her (although, we were pretty sure she'd have a few notes on the music - - hah)! We know that she is now directing the biggest choir of them all upstairs as we know God needed the best person for the job! We buried Jeannie's ashes yesterday (Friday the 27th) at Calvalry Cemetery in St. Paul. She has been laid above her sister Arlene in the same grave plot which we thought was very special. She will be with all of us in memory for the rest of our lives and we continue to celebrate her music and pass on her legacy as best we can. Thank you to all who attended and paid respects to our most special Aunt. I know we were unable to speak to each and everyone there, but know that we are so thankful for your presence in ours and Jeannie's life. As for me, doin' great, feeling good. Keepin' on keepin' on! Love to all. Rae
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