Thank you, Uncle Butch. Miss you, Aunt Jill.

Clarence John "Butch" Blaesing was my wife's uncle. He passed away on August 5 after a long illness. I posted about it on FB, but not here.

He was a good husband, father and all-around pillar of the family, appearing at every reunion despite the long haul from up north. He also wore the uniform of our country with distinction, winning the Bronze Star. Though the family had to learn that from the newspaper, not from him.

He didn't have to, but he included Heather in his will.

Because of that, we were able to square up on some big bills and necessities. And most importantly this week, replace our smoking ex-dishwasher with one grabbed right off the floor of our depleted local appliance store, deeply discounted to boot. 

A modern dishwasher is lighter than it looks, and fits into a 2005 Expedition with plenty of room to spare.

We continue to pray for the repose of his soul, and humbly request you do the same.

And while I am at it, my wife's Aunt Jill passed away in July, unexpectedly. Again, I mentioned it on FB, which now functions my bad news dump site and Messenger service.

She was a big-hearted woman, unfailingly kind despite the fact life too often was unkind to her. Her big laugh and earthy sense of humor is already missed. Prayers for her are also welcome. She was one of a kind.