Uncle Ken

Last week my mom, Seth, and I made a quick, somber trip to Eugene to attend my great Uncle Ken's funeral. I know that I had met Uncle Ken and Aunt Mary at family reunions over the years, but I didn't really have a chance to know them well until we moved to Eugene while Jon attended law school.

They really were my adopted grandparents while we lived there. I was especially grateful for them that first year when I was adjusting to being a full-time mom and being married to a first year law student. Our Friday afternoon visits quickly became the highlight of the week.

Most often Uncle Ken was a quiet observer and listener in Aunt Mary's and my conversations. But every once it a while he'd interject with a witty comment or joke that gave insight into his personality. I'm thankful that I got to know Uncle Ken a little better during those years, even though I suspect that I only saw shadows of his true personality.