Good Morning. My name is Dick Ketler. I'm Sheila's husband and the newest member of Fay's family. We would like to thank all of you for attending this morning to help us celebrate our Mother's life and honor the memory of Fay Hennigar. The family has asked that I speak for them to share with you a few special memories of Mom's final years. Mom had always been the greatest teacher, motivator, and inspiration for her children . . . but never more so than in the past six years during and after the massive, multiple heart surgeries that only four people in the world before her had ever survived. Throughout this time of her greatest challenges, she never stood taller. She endured extensive pain, months of rehabilitation, and endless hours of medical examinations and tests . . .and in the process gave her children the greatest opportunity of their adult lives. They spent the long grueling hours of Mom's surgeries and months of recuperation together around the clock, comforting each other, learning about themselves, and sharing memories long forgotten. More? importantly, they were able to experience clearly the wisdom of the lessons their Mother instilled in them by her example throughout her life.   She also gave her grandchildren the opportunity for six more years to grow up in her presence during the most formative period of their lives, so that they, too, could receive the gift of her love and the character-defining imprint of her core values . Humility, strength, selflessness, joy of life, and compassion. Mom's surgeries did not define her life; rather, they exemplified her character. She showed us that no matter what life throws your way, you can always prevail with hard work, perseverance, love, the support of family and friends, a healthy dose of wit and humor, and a good "to do" list.   I'd also like to add my own reflections on Fay. As a newcomer to the family, I'm at liberty to express some thoughts her children may be reluctant to share. I met Fay a little over a year ago on my first visit to Northwood to meet my soon-to-be in-laws. Under circumstances that could have been extremely awkward and difficult, she accepted me without hesitation as part of her family and was thrilled in the love Sheila and I had found. One of my greatest blessings will always be that I had the opportunity to spend every day with Fay during a month-long visit at our home this past summer, during which time I grew to love and know her quite well.    During that visit, Mom confided in me, privately, that she was so relieved because finally she had reached the point in her life where she could stop worrying . . . because she knew her children all were happy, had loving spouses, and successfully were raising fine families of their own. Obviously, she would have wanted to be with us for years to come, but essentially what she said to me was that, when the time came to go, she was content. As most of you know, Fay was very private person, so I was particularly struck by her openness. In so doing, however, she provided me a real insight into her character.    Fay was not a person of great worldly achievements or experiences. She was a humble woman who asked for little and gave everything she had to ensure the happiness and welfare of her family and friends. That was her overriding mission in life, and her greatest joy. Her contributions to the betterment of our world are the members of her family sitting here today. Virtually single-handedly and through difficult times, she raised and nurtured five children to become productive, caring and successful adults who embody her admirable spirit, values, and strength of character. These virtues they have passed to their children, all of whom are bright, talented and personable young men and women who, in turn, will make great contributions to their families, communities, and society.   That's the legacy of Fay Hennigar. Her imprint will live on and spread for generations to come.   And so, at this time of great loss and facing their most difficult challenge yet, Fay's family thanks you for joining with them to honor Mom's life, perpetuate her enduring love, and rejoice in the knowledge she achieved all in life she set out to accomplish and now can rest at peace. God bless you, Mom. The Following Poem was written by Fay's daughter Sherry, Mom, Grandma, and Friend~~~ Unconditional love, right to the end. Heart so big, it literally gave, Always strong, sweet and brave. Raised five kids, you put us first, Even when you felt your worst. Unselfish and loving was your gift, A caring ear when we needed a lift. You beat the odds, made medical history, Our admiration for you is no mystery. A perfect person for a purple heart, God made you special from the start. Twenty-five years to Winnebago you'd heed, Determined to give us whatever we need. Time with your grandchildren was one of Your greatest joys, Each one special to you ~~3 girls and 10 boys. We couldn't have asked for a better Mom, Our hearts are breaking now that your gone. God has made you an angel, in this we trust, To watch from above and take care of us. Sherry Olson © All rights reserved. Joy Comes in the Morning "My Fay" I'm missing you much more each day My dearest friend; my sweet Fay. You meant the whole world to me, All who knew you would agree. No one was like "my Fay". You were a loyal friend right from the start You offered your hand, and captured my heart. The laughter, the tears, the love we shared. Remains here with me, I know how you cared. What matters now more than ever before is the love that she freely shared. Ever gentle and kind, she tried so hard to find common ground, for she truly cared. In her you could confide, And her arms opened wide. To give comfort or a shoulder to cry on. She laughed with such zeal, and her humor was real. Yes, she was a friend you could rely on. Why God called her home, and in taking her, stole a whole portion of my life~ I don't understand. I must try to move on. Though my spirit weeps through these lonely nights; I still comprehend. "Joy Comes in the Morning;" And with that 'GREAT DAWNING' With Jesus ~~~ A Heavenly Sight. Fay and I can walk shoulder to shoulder. She meant so much to me She was my friend, don't you see~~~~ And I will miss her forever and more. Karen February16, 2006 ©   Music: "I May Never Pass This Way Again" Sequenced By Bob Sorem Used With His Permission   To receive my updates click HERE Webmistress...Siggy All Rights Reserved ~ Remember U R Loved ~ Karen Payne