Last night, around 2 a.m., Ron left his body. It took Kathy and her family by surprise that he went so quickly, but it also affirmed that hospice was the right decision. We are wrestling with mixed emotions — stunned that this all happened so unexpectedly and fast, relieved that he is at peace.

Kathy spent most of the evening with him on Sunday night. No one could guess what Ron's time line would be, and eventually Kathy went home to try and get rest. She got a call at 1 a.m. that he was close to death. She didn't feel capable of driving, so she called her oldest daughter, Riesa, who rushed over to get her. They raced to the facility. Traci, Kathy's other daughter, lives closer and got there before he died, so Ron was not alone. Kathy and Riesa arrived a few minutes later.

As they got more information about his brain injuries yesterday, it became clear that they were so severe he never could have recovered. They are so grateful they were able to spend time with him before he passed. This is such a hard loss, and Kathy is overwhelmed. Her family is close by, and we are doing everything we can to make sure she feels held and supported. She's also asked me to emphasize how grateful she is for all the expressions of love and support she's received from so many people.

Ron will be deeply missed. We know many of you will wonder about services. The pandemic complicates everything and so figuring out arrangements will take some time. The family needs time. As decisions are made, we will let people know.

With love and peace,
maren