3.02.2010

uncle lee

Long before Ryan's brother, Lee, became an uncle to Mason, he was a friend and eventually a brother-in-law to me. Coming from a family of all girls, I remember feeling so blessed to have gained two amazing brothers. And Lee was an amazing brother.

But our time here together on earth has been cut short. Lee is now home with the LORD. My heart rejoices for him, but it aches for those of us that are left behind. He passed away unexpectedly last week. He went to sleep on Wednesday night and he never woke up. Ryan had plans to spend the weekend with him and when he got to his house, he found him dead. We are still processing through all of the grief and waiting for answers, but there are several things that bring me comfort. One of them is sharing stories and remembering all of our wonderful times together. I hope you don't mind if I share a few of them here.

It's a comfort knowing that Lee had a relationship with Jesus Christ. Lee loved the Lord, that was evident in everything he did. He lived life to the fullest and brought so much joy to those around him. Lee had been coming down to our house every few weeks to hang out and help us with building our addition. And of course to see Mason. Over those visits we had many interesting conversations about christianity and our faith and I am so thankful for everything that he taught me and the many ways in which he challenged and encouraged me.


Over the years we've had many family camping and four-wheeling adventures together. There's nothing like exploring new territory, trying new trails, roasting hotdogs, laughing, and just being together.

Lee was so excited to be an uncle, and we was an amazing uncle at that. He was there the day Mason was born. He was so proud. He loved Mason so much. I can still hear him walking into the room and saying "hello nephew." I can't wait until Mason is older and I can tell him all about uncle Lee. This is one of my favorite pictures. It's a few years old, but it still makes me smile.


I am feeling so many different emotions right now and I don't know exactly what else to say, except we will miss you deeply and we love you. And always will.

5 comments:

Hillary said...

Hey, when I was reading the book of Psalms the other day, I found this and thought it was certainly appropriate:

Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Anyways...these pictures should be treasured forever-Mason will love the stories about his special Uncle Lee.

You know where to find me if you need anything (um, pancakes?! or laughs!)

and you also know that I love you.

I'm glad I got to see you today-hang in there...imagine how happy Lee must be, getting to be a youth leader in Heaven must be like the ultimate job! ;)

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear of your loss and will keep you in our prayers.
lgaley@charter.net

Sheila said...

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Praise God you have the comfort of knowing Lee's with Him right now and that one day you will all be together again. Praying for you all that the Lord will comfort and bless you as you go through the days ahead. God Bless, Sheila

Stephanie said...

Leanne,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you and remember we love you.
The Walden Girls

Jean H. said...

Thinking of you during this difficult time. Look up to the Lord.