Ethel I. Birgelaitis

Reverend Mary,
That was a beautiful tribute to your mother. She was a lovely lady! Your dad was so handsome too! How wonderful that they were childhood sweethearts. I especially loved the picture of your mother with her family dog (I am assuming.). So sweet.
Love,
Dianna

Mary, thank you for sharing the history and photos of your Mom. That was a lovely tribute to a strong, progressive,aventuras woman! Women of that era don't get enough credit for their strength of character. Loved the early photos. She was so cute and married to a very handsome man! Loved the part about teaching the caregivers old songs. And she raised a beautiful family. It really doesn't get any better than that.
Even thou they are absent form us physically, they are with us thru love and spirit all of our lives. Wishing you comfort and prays always, Glena

My family sends our condolences on the passing of Ethel. Her father and my grandfather (Victor Kivinen) were brothers. I only spoke with her a few times but my parents use to speak highly of her when the family tree was trying to be explained. I am the youngest son of the late Conrad and Mary Kivinen of Grand Rapids MI. Again, I am sorry for your loss. Dennis Kivinen

Wow, what a wonderful video tribute to a life well-lived! (I recognize many of the pics from Derby Drive!) Your mom was so proud of all of you! You were her 'shining stars'! I know you will miss her. Thanks for sharing the beautiful memories. Love always from your Finnish neighbor down the street and Mary's best friend, Kathy Nivala Sak

May God bless your family. I'm so sorry for the loss of your Mother. She was a very special lady. You are in my prayers.
From Mary's sister by choice, Margaret Hummel

What a lovely video. Very peaceful and loving. Please accept our condolences at this very sad time. Mary, you are in our hearts and prayers, as is your family.

What a wonderful tribute to a woman who meant so much to you and your family. May the memories fill your hearts with love, joy, hope and the celebration of a life well lived and loved.

Thank you so much for sharing the mempries of your mother with us. The book is beautifully done. She was a strong loving mother and I know you will miss her very much. All my love and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Echo Kukuchek (Ventura).

The memorial slide show is very special. Several pictures made me smile and some giggle when I saw the facial expressions. I'm sure there are many priceless back-stories to those captured moments in time. What a beautiful family. What a wonderful testimony to a life lived surrounded by love.

You are all in my prayers.
Melody Deal

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.