Big John

Yesterday, I attended the funeral of my uncle, "Big John" Naegle. At age 76, he was definitely gone too soon. The funeral was an amazing tribute to the man he was and the legacy he leaves.

His passing was completely unexpected, and for the past few weeks as community and family members have been remembering him, I have noticed how often we've said to each other, "I just saw him at El Cupidos (or Ace, or the post office)." And seeing John meant him talking to you or giving you a big hug. It also meant that he always left by saying, "Love you." That was one of the main themes of the funeral - John's love and his ability to share it.

And though funerals are sad, they are also heart healing as we gather with those we love, and they help us as we miss the one who is gone. It was wonderful to see and visit with so many cousins. We laughed and cried and caught up on each others' lives. One cousin

said something along the lines of, "Aren't funerals fun?" I wouldn't go that far, but I understand the sentiment. Before the funeral, I thought I would try to count the hugs I got. I lost track within the first ten minutes.

One of Big John's friends said, "I'm not sure I want to live in a place where John isn't just down the road." I will miss seeing Uncle Johnny around town, but it is nice to know I have such wonderful family and friends to hug. "I love you, Uncle Johnny. I love you, all my cousins and family. And if you are reading this, 'I love you too.'"