I taught with Marty at Woodland. I think of him often. Tonight my daughter, and many of Marty’s former students, performed in honors choir. Their group sang “Old Dan Tucker”, and it was bittersweet for me. Those same kids sang that piece with Marty as a part of the Little House Program that he always lead for the second graders. I remember looking forward to this program every year. The second graders were always so excited to sing pioneer songs, and Marty’s enthusiasm was contagious. I think he would have been proud of them tonight.
Marty truly impacted so many. I hope sharing this memory will warm your heart.
It's difficult to think back to the morning when Marty didn't show up in his classroom that was two doors down from mine. I waited and prayed he was behind some traffic, running late, or maybe he had hit a Deer. Death is the enemy, I agree Jill. As the day went on, my heart was scared and sad. I agree Jill, as I look back there were many mercies. I miss him as my colleague and as my friend. I will never teach my students "Lucy Locket Lost Her Pocket..." and never not think of him! When I am fishing, I think back to his days teaching all of the summer school students how to fish, and he remained calm and collected every single minute of this great experience! What a teacher he was!
I know Marty, and he'd want us all to go on, and live every day to the fullest. He'd want us to be like him, smiling, walking with a skip in his step, positive, upbeat, and serving God in all we do. May his amazing spirit live on in us all. May we all take the part of Marty we loved so much, and the parts we miss greatly, and try to be more like him.
I didn't have the opportunity to tell you my final "Marty moment." Marty and I often shared stories about his grandsons with me. Ronan lives right across the street from my parents, and I enjoyed hearing about the grandbabies! My final time with Marty was when he skipped into the school office, saying, "Look Susie, I have more pictures to show you!" He was such a proud Grandpa. He loved his family SO much.
When I see an Eagle flying, I think of Marty....his carefree personality, soaring above us all...shining God's blessings on us.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like Eagles; They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40;31
A death in our family has given me pause to consider again what life is all about. Praying for you, Jill and for the boys. I am so thankful that you were able to have that special last time with Marty. What a blessing, indeed!
Jill, this is a beautiful testimony of God’s grace and mercy to Marty, you and your family during those 100 days that you had together before he went on to be with the Lord. Thank you for sharing as it is so encouraging. Praying for you during this difficult time.
It’s so good to hear from you. We praise God for the words you wrote above- how they point to hope and truth. We will keep you in our prayers and send all our love to you ♥️
Hi Jill—I don’t know if you remember me, but I was in IVCF at UW-W with you and Marty, but go back to childhood with Marty being raised SDB. At our women’s Bible study today, a Scripture made me I think of the song, “Glorious Grace,” then that Marty had sung it at our wedding, and then I realized that today marks 1 year. Though I didn’t see him often, Marty was a treasured friend for so many years. I will always remember you and him with love.
Jill, Marty is often in my thoughts as I, too, drive to school. He was a good soul and a friend whose laugh I miss. Thinking of you and your family at ths difficult anniversary. Glad to hear you have such good memories of just the week before. Sending up a prayer for Marty today.
Jill- That you for writing on this most important day. It encourages and blesses me that God is near, guiding, comforting, and leading you each day. The journey of 100 days was heart-wrenching, and they are not over, but God is near to the broken-hearted! Love and prayer-
I taught with Marty at Woodland. I think of him often. Tonight my daughter, and many of Marty’s former students, performed in honors choir. Their group sang “Old Dan Tucker”, and it was bittersweet for me. Those same kids sang that piece with Marty as a part of the Little House Program that he always lead for the second graders. I remember looking forward to this program every year. The second graders were always so excited to sing pioneer songs, and Marty’s enthusiasm was contagious. I think he would have been proud of them tonight.
Marty truly impacted so many. I hope sharing this memory will warm your heart.
God bless you all