Michelle and Matt, I am so sorry for your loss! I think of your mom often and just learned tonight of her death, and of your father's. They came to my mom's funeral in January 2015 and then your mom came to my house for a visit not long after. I have such fond memories of her from elementary school through adulthood. One of my very first jobs was at the teddy bear shop. Just last month as I was having a garage sale, I posted on Facebook about her, my mom, and Chris, and the garage sales we would have together. And the tradition of kicking them off with donuts from Tony's. She will always hold a special place in my heart.

Michelle, I was sorry to see this. I often wondered how things were going with you. I think of your mom as I drove by their home. Thinking of you. Bonnie

Marilyn was a wonderful mentor to me during my student teaching in the High School Media Center. Later, as I became a colleague, she helped make the district Media Specialists’ teaching and learning experience fun, current with technology and always interesting. I am saddened to learn of Marilyn's and Al’s passing.

I am very sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. God has promised to, one day soon, eliminate death forever, along with all sickness, pain, and sorrow. (Rev.21:4) He has also promised to reunite us with our loved ones on a restored paradise earth. The Bible says he yearns to do this. (John 5:28,29; Job 14:14,15) I hope these scriptures will bring comfort to each of you.

So what do you say to the family of folk`s that have been such an integral part of your life . Al and Marilyn were mentors, friends , creative counselors, fellow humorists , co -conspirators in the studio art movement , passionate dog lovers, creative knitters, teddy bear lovers , scroungers of found objects and most importantly sharers of their own life experience with those they loved . They would open there home to all of us . No questions asked . They were just curious I guess . We`re glad to be counted as one of those friends. Stay curious. We will carry them in our hearts as I`m sure that many that they have touched will. Much love to Matt and Shelly Mike and Patty.

It would be hard to find two more colorful people than Al and Marilyn. They both led very interesting lives and shared their expertise with so many people. Their legacies will live on. Sympathies to Matt and Shelly on losing their dear parents in such a short time.

I still walk past the BHS Media Center and think of her. She was passionate about her craft and the kids.

I will miss Al and Marilyn. I knew Al for 37 years, beginning as a student in Metalsmithing at TMA. I didn\'t meet Marilyn until years later when I would make a yearly pilgrimage to their home for a visit. Al was a teddy bear and would go out of his way to help students. Marilyn was a plucky lady with a creative spirit. I loved them, and still love, their children. I hope I will cross paths with Michelle, Matt and Evanne sometime in the future. Peace be with you all.