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Ruel Eskelsen Obituary
RUEL J. ESKELSEN
Was born June 18, 1954, in Durango, Colorado, to Quinn and Ruth Eskelsen of Brigham City. He died in Washington, D.C. on March 18, 2011. He lived a life full of love. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 38 years, Lily Eskelsen, and a generous and kind father to their two sons. Ruel loved books and jazz. He enjoyed hiking everywhere, but especially in our national parks. He earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Utah and received his master's degree in Library Science from Emporia State University in Kansas. He was proud to be a veteran of the U.S. Army and was an active member of the Unitarian Church. He is survived by his wife, Lily, their sons, Jeremy (Mike Hargreaves) Eskelsen and Jared Eskelsen, his father, Quinn M. Eskelsen, his brothers, David (Carla) Eskelsen, Doug Eskelsen, his sister, Amy (Don Standing) Eskelsen, and his grandchildren Quentin Smith and Nikita Eskelsen. There will be a celebration of the life of Ruel J. Eskelsen on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the First Unitarian Church, 596 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the teacher scholarship fund endowed by Ruel and Lily, "Maestros Para Los Niños", made payable to the University of Utah. Scholarship donations should be sent to University of Utah c/o Maestros Para Los Ninos Endowed Scholarship Fund, 540 Arapeen Dr., Suite 250, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruel Eskelsen
Sarab Horton
March 16, 2019
It's that time of year when your loved one' s life came to an end. The memories linger forever, knowing they're resting from pain makes a little more bearable.
This Sunday on this very day my l8fe was changed completely. My husband change life on earth for a better life safe in the arms of God Almighty. The memories are real So cherish them forever. REMEMBERING ALWAY S!
sara cuaresma
April 19, 2011
Lily, cuanto lamento por lo que estas pasando, que Dios les de fortaleza para pasar estos momentos tan dificiles en tu vida a ti y a tus hijos, solo el tiempo y Diosito alivianaran un poco tanto dolor.Tu eres muy fuerte y tu dedicacion por la educacion de los ninos ha sido tu pasion, ojala sigas adelante con todas tus metas, la vida no se acaba, solo hay que ajustarse un poco.
Tim Chambless
April 13, 2011
Lily, Jeremy and Jared, I hurt for you. I am so sorry for us who remain. We will always remember Ruel for who he was: a good and decent man, a generous and kind man, a loving husband and father and friend.
Ruel, my friend, we wish you peace. We miss you. We love you. We will never forget you.
Sarah Horton
April 10, 2011
Lily, the members of Mobile County Education Support Professionals send their prayers and concerns. We pray for your family that you will find peace in the memories of your husband and your sons father.
Doreen McGlade
April 10, 2011
Lily and Family,
On behalf of the members of the Natrona County Education Association in Casper, Wyoming--as time passes, we want you to know that you are still in our thoughts and prayers.
Susan Alter
April 8, 2011
Lily, Iam so sorry to hear of Ruel's passing. I always enjoyed hearing you speak at the NEA RA. May you find comfort in your faith. God bless you and your family and may Ruel's soul rest in peace.
DAVID BAUER
April 4, 2011
I was privileged to be a member of a study group that Ruel put together here in Washington, DC. Ruel was very much interested in the ethics and spiritual values that shape our lives, and he was gracious with his time in helping others, such as myself, to explore these values. I will miss him very much.
Janet Eastman
April 3, 2011
Dearest Lily,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Keep Ruel alive each day as you talk, think and feel him in all that you do for others. God is watching over you and your loved ones. We thank Ruel and your sons for sharing you with us as you fight for public education, students and teachers.
God bless!
Penney Tyree
March 30, 2011
Lily and Family,
You are in my thoughts daily and in my heart forever.
Maria Bennett
March 29, 2011
The pain of bereavement and grief felt by you on the sad demise of your husband Ruel is shared by us all. We assure of all our help. We pray to the God to enable you find courage soon.....Maria Bennett
Jen & Bill
March 29, 2011
"Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim."
-Vicki Harrison
Tom Nedreberg
March 28, 2011
Dear Lily and Family,
Condolences to your family on the loss of Ruel. The celebration of life service was a fitting tribute to a wonderful person. May the strength, affection, and love of those that cared about him and his family be with you.
Tom Nedreberg
Becky Torrens
March 28, 2011
Dear Lily and family,
Both my husband Gene and myself have you in our thoughts and prayers. We never had the pleasure of meeting Ruel, but have heard you speak of him often. We wish there was more that we could do to comfort you during this time that would help heal your sorrow. You are a brave and strong woman, with a loving family. We are confident that you all will go forward with your loving memories of a wonderful husband and father.
Angelo Dorta
March 28, 2011
Dear Lily,
You are in our thoughts and prayers and have our deepest condolences for the loss of your long-time husband and life's partner, Ruel. We know your personal faith and strength will be a blessing for others, that Ruel still will reside in your heart and mind every day, and that you somehow will find ways to convert Ruel's passing into a benefit for others. We also have sent a special note of condolence and support to son Jared and have wished him a speedy and loving reunion with your entire family.
Angelo Dorta and Family
Burlington, Vermont and Milano, Italy
Donna McCulloch
March 27, 2011
Dear Lily,
I was so saddened to hear of the terrible loss of your husband, Ruel. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
You have been such an inspiration to so many educators and it was my pleasure to walk with you during our convention last week in Raleigh.
Comfort in Christ.
Susan Rice
March 27, 2011
Dear Lily & family,
We have never met, but as a fellow teacher I felt compelled to reach out. Please feel the love & concern sent to you this day.
Sincerely,
March 27, 2011
Lily and family,
Your family's loss and sadness is a universal tale. This message comes with universal arms of love and comfort for your family at this time of need.
Condolences,
Jan Studer, Bonners Ferry, Idaho
Matilde Vallejos
March 27, 2011
Querida amiga,
Lo siento desde el fondo del corazon tu perdida.
But you are like the lily flower, can bloom in the harshest conditions because your strength comes from within. My thoughts and quiet prayers for you, my dear friend.
Matilde
March 27, 2011
Dear Family Members of Ruel
Such a kind man with great curiosity for the things he loved. I will miss his presence in our neighborhood. So very sorry for your loss.
Pamela Jones and Michael Wilhelm
Karina Curiel
March 26, 2011
Querida Lily, mis mas sentidos pesames estan en mis pensamientos y oraciones.
Diane B. Gonzalez
March 26, 2011
Dear Lily,
I hope these words bring you comfort during these difficult times.
In the quiet moments, when the hurt is hard to bear,
May love become your shelter and may the beauty of precious memories be your comfort.
You are held in gentle thought and prayer.
Rich and Stella Hageman
March 26, 2011
Dear Lily, We have been on the sidelines of your career for 4 decades and we are deeply saddened for you in your loss. There are no words here to give comfort, just know you are so deeply in our thoughts and emotions at this time.
Jane Shults
March 26, 2011
Dear Lily-
I first heard you speak at the NEA-RA in New Orleans last year. You have a wonderful spirit and are a tremendous voice for children and education. I am so sorry for your family's loss - I know that Ruel must have been a wonderful man, because of what I saw in you at the RA. I will keep all of you in my prayers. I know that God will keep you close in this very difficult time.
Jane Shults
HLPTA NEA-RA Rep 2010
georgia reed
March 26, 2011
Dear Lily,
I am so sorry. You are in my thoughts.
Georgia Reed
patricia pignanelli
March 26, 2011
Lily,
I am so sorry. Your are in my thoughts,prayers and memories.
Patricia Murphy Pignanelli
Norma Heeter
March 25, 2011
Although I did not know Ruel, I knew Lily through her involvement in NEA. I so admire her and want to express my sincere sympathy for the loss of her dear husband.
Betsy Smith
March 25, 2011
Lily, you are in the hearts and thoughts of all of your friends and comrades at the NEA Higher Ed Conference in Boston this weekend. I don't think that we ever exchanged more than a few words, but over the years, you have been the highlight of more than one gathering. Your songs made me laugh; your stories made me cry; your passion for our profession inspired me. I join with many others in wishing you peace in this most difficult of times.
Kathy DuPuis
March 25, 2011
Lily, see that bright new twinkling star? That's Ruel, God's new star making the dark nights brighter. It's a reminder that he will be there showing you the way to the new morning's sun. May the twinkling of the star and the rays of sunshine bring you peace and comfort knowing he is in God's house forever. May my prayers and the prayers of others be of some help to you during this time of sadness.
Margrett Hall
March 25, 2011
Lily,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. In time the memories will help you smile, laugh, and remember the wonderful moments you and Ruel shared together. You have a lot of supportive family and friends who care and will be here for you. I will have some Masses said for Ruel. He is now your special guardian angel. Vios con Dios.
Alan Gygi
March 25, 2011
Dear Lily,
The news of Ruel's passing filled me with great sorrow. As one who spent many days with you in the service of our fellow teachers I felt and continue to feel the greatest admiration for your devotion to both family and "the cause". I saw throuhout the years that not-too-well-hidden pain that comes from being separated from family and love ones--especially when it is volunary. I am increasingly satisfied that few good things in life come without sacrifice. You all (your family) have payed a tremendous price. Ruel, perhaps, most of all. I have written Jeremy and hope to be able to participate in the service.
God bless and comfort you as you have served so many others.
Alan Gygi
Mary Lamb
March 25, 2011
Lily, Jeremy and Jared:
I've seen first hand the complete and unconditional love your family has always had for each other, which I know will be of comfort to you in the coming days, weeks, and years.
Lily, you also have a huge family of educators and friends who will return the care and emotional support you have given us through the years.
March 25, 2011
Lily, Our thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this very difficult time.
NEA American Indian/Alaska Caucus
Debbie Hogue-Downing
Gary Miller
March 25, 2011
Lily, I know what the support of our NEA family means in times like this. Please know that I share your feelings in the sudden loss of a spouse, and also know that you will gain strength from the outpouring of love that you are now experiencing. If I can be of any help, please let me know.
March 25, 2011
Lily,
I am so sorry. You are in my heart and prayers.
Patricia Murphy Pignanelli
Sue Porter
March 25, 2011
When I think of Ruel I remember golden brown, perfectly proportioned and endless "skivers" as he called them. Some held a surprise dollop of fruit or jam inside. Later Ruel would unselfishly share this Eskelsen Family "Secret Recipe" with me when my little boy (40+) faced a health scare and wanted comfort foods from his childhood. I have never been able to duplicate the mellow atmosphere or the methodical process, but I make them often and always, always think of Ruel. Ruel will always live in my happiest of memories. I pray that Lily, Jeremy, Mike and Jared will be able to draw upon the vast well of wonderful experiences for strength and comfort in the coming days.
Nancy Pereira
March 25, 2011
Vaya con Dios, Ruel
Nikki Peterson
March 25, 2011
Lily,
We at Granite are all so very sorry for such a great loss. May the good memories of a loving marriage fill your mind, warm your heart, and hold you close until you come through the other side of this tragedy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh
March 25, 2011
Dear Lily and Family,
I am praying for you all as I know your hearts are broken. You are forever in my heart.
Pat and Rich Rusk
March 25, 2011
Sending our love to all of you as you work through this terrible tragedy. We know that Ruel loved you all completely and unconditionally. We hope the love of all of your family and friends can now help carry you forward.
Christina Dare
March 25, 2011
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.
Randy Moody
March 25, 2011
Lily, I just found out about your tragic loss. Jane and I are so, so sorry. We are thinking about you in this troubling time.
Jackie Kelley
March 25, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. May the memories bring you comfort in the grieving process. Jeremy and Mike please let me know if I can do anything even if it’s just a shoulder to cry on.
Annie Crego
March 24, 2011
Lily, Jeremy, and Jared,
Please be gentle to yourselves during this difficult time. The good memories of Ruel will soon flood your hearts and make this easier with time. Know that you are all 3 loved and that all you have to do is ask and 3.2 million people will be there to do whatever you need. We love you!
Jim Fotter
March 24, 2011
Lily and Family,
Know that we are all holding you in our thoughts and prayers. Jim and I are sending you light and love from Seattle.
Dana Roseboro
March 24, 2011
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Linda Calandra
March 24, 2011
Lily,
I wish for you and your family peace and a sense of calm. Here is a poem that I became attached to when my very dear father passed away.
"Safely Home"
"I am home in Heaven, dear ones;
Oh, so happy and so bright!
There is perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light.
All the pain and grief is over,
Every restless tossing passed;
I am now at peace forever,
Safely home in Heaven at last.
Did you wonder I so calmly
Trod the valley of the shade?
Oh! but Jesus' love illumined
Every dark and fearful glade.
And He came Himself to meet me
In that way so hard to tread;
And with Jesus' arm to lean on,
Could I have one doubt or dread?
Then you must not grieve so sorely,
For I love you dearly still;
Try to look beyond earth's shadows,
Pray to trust our Father's Will.
There is work still waiting for you,
So you must not idly stand;
Do it now, while life remaineth-
You shall rest in Jesus' land.
When that work is all completed,
He will gently call you Home;
Oh, the rapture of that meeting,
Oh, the joy to see you come!"
March 24, 2011
Dearest Lily and family,
Please know that our Kentucky hearts are breaking for you at the loss of your sweet Ruel. We grieve with you, pray for you, and hold each of you in our hearts during this very difficult time. All our love to the Eskelsen family and friends. Sharron Oxendine, President, KEA
Janet Joy
March 24, 2011
Dear Lily and family,
My heart is breaking for you and your family. Please know my love and support is flowing your way.
Janet Joy, NEA Resolutions Committee
March 24, 2011
Prayers for your family!
Rene Eskelsen
March 24, 2011
Lily and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss!
Cynthia Hanson
March 24, 2011
I am thinking of you at this time and may you feel all the arms of the NEA's brothers and sisters around you. C. Hanson ED MN
Barbara Davis-Staley
March 24, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 24, 2011
Dear Lily and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss and am thinking of you at this sad time. Anita Leopardi
Felecia
March 24, 2011
Lily, please know that my family and I love you and are praying for God to give you strength during this time of bereavement. I am so very sorry for your loss. I love you Lily.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Felecia Hampshire
Florida
Joe Dushko
March 24, 2011
Lily,
Our thoughts are with you at this painful time.
Joe Dushko, NY
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily,
I am so sorry to hear about Ruel. I send healing wishes and a warm hugs around you and your family. I will be thinking of you. Melinda Michaels Winograd
Kathleen Wagner
March 23, 2011
Dearest Lily, Jeremy and Jared,
I have you in my thoughts and prayers at this time of sadness and loss of your beloved Ruel. May your many wonderful memories bring you comfort in the upcoming days, weeks and years. I do believe we have a loving Heavenly Father and it is His plan that one day we will be reunited in heaven with our loved ones. May your faith sustain you during this temporary separation.
Alisa Bledsoe
March 23, 2011
Dearest Lily and family, please know that my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Jim Young
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily and your family
Sending you a warm and loving hug from Iowa.
May the legacy he has left with your family and the people his life touched bring you peace and comfort.
Love to you!
Cristin Talley
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily, I will always remember the beautiful, energetic music that you and Ruel created together. I'm so sorry for your loss and the heaviness in your heart.
Bev and Jim Cooper
March 23, 2011
Lily, Jeremy and Jared, We were so saddened to hear of your loss, all of our loss of Ruel. A joyous time comes to mind of an afternoon spent in your backyard supporting a good cause or political candidate, listening to Lily and Ruel's music and visiting. You are in our hearts and in our prayers. Love, Bev and Jim
elysa moulding
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily
You are in our thoughts. May you and your family be comforted by all the many friends who Ruel , by his warmth and love, left a legacy of fellowship and affection. Elysa and Helge Moulding
Suzan
March 23, 2011
Ruel,
You put music in my life! You loved my parents! You were always a sweet friend and cousin! You enjoyed our family and supported us in many ways. I know you are probably jamming with Uncle Pep right now and I KNOW that you are surrounded by many people who love you. (I'm a little jealous) Thank you for being part of my life. I know that we will be together again!
Lily, Jeremy and Jared,
I express my love and I send my prayers and I am glad that yo have each other. I loved Ruel!! xoxoxxoxo
Sally Plourde
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily,
There are no words that can take the pain away. I extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Love and prayers
Erica Milbourne
March 23, 2011
Sweet Lily,
There are no words to express the sorrow felt by all who know and love you. You have touched the lives of so many. May prayers and love surround you and your family, comfort you and bring you peace. God bless.
Paul Ridgway
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily and Family,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Being an educator we are all one family and we all share your loss. I wish you God's Speed in this trying time!
Doreen McGuire-Grigg
March 23, 2011
Dearest Lily,
You and your family are in my prayers. I am praying for you to find peace throughout this very sad time... Please know that you are, and will continue to be, in the thoughts and prayers of many...
Much love...
March 23, 2011
Lily, I cannot imagine the pain you and your family are feeling right now. I saw you with your husband and was struck by the looks of love that passed between the two of you. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Katherine Murphy, Michigan
Julie Ann Stuck
March 23, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your sons at this time of loss. No words can be said that will give you more comfort that those of God. Trust his love at this time. Love and Prayers to you and your family
Julie and Tim Stuck
Junction City, KS.
Debbie DiColo
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily and family,
So very sorry for your loss of one so dear. I remember seeing him on stage with you at an RA when you were singing. May your happier times allow you to find some comfort at this sad time.
With deepest sympathy,
Debbie DiColo
NEA/RA delegate from NJ
Lynn Mason
March 23, 2011
Lily, The words come hard. The feelings are strong. The prayers are real. The comfort is flowing. God's blessings to you and yours and please know that, like always, one truly special person's pain is felt by us all and we will comfort you any way we can.
God Speed,
March 23, 2011
May your pain be eased each day the sun rises and may your heart grow bigger with each fond memory you have. Remember to pass all of his goodness around to those you touch each day - he will live on.
God Bless and We Love You,
Auntie Zanne and Uncle Rob
P.S. We have made a donation to the University of Utah Maestros Para Los Ninos Endowed Scholarship Fund to honor Ruel's life.
Carol Stevens
March 23, 2011
Lily,
I am so sorry to hear about your husband and your son. You may not remember me but I student taught at Orchard Elementary so many years ago and joined the ranks of everyone who adored you! I am sending off a letter to Jared right now. May you feel the love of your friends and peace that all will be well. Love, Carol Stevens
March 23, 2011
Lily,
Please know that I am deeply sorry for you loss. I met him in Germany. Look to God for your comfort. Only He can ease your pain.
Eunice Horton Birmingham, AL
Patricia W. Griffiths
March 23, 2011
Dearest Lily & Family,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Ruel's untimely passing, and my heart aches for all of you. I've always admired the love and devotion that was evident in your relationship and have fond memories of hearing you and your gentle soulmate blend your voices in song as you shared your talents with us. Your examples of love, generosity, and kindness are worthy of emulation by all of us.
You have always been there for me in good times and bad, and I hope you know of my love and that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. May you find comfort and peace in your faith and knowledge that all of us who have been touched by your friendship and love share in your sorrow. You are truly loved and admired.
May love and support of friends and family and cherished memories ease the burden of your pain and give you hope for the future.
With love and deepest sympathy,
Pat Griffiths
Ginny Bosse
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily and family, May you find comfort through your faith, strength through the love of family and friends (literally millions of friends!) and healing through the many good memories you will always hold close to your hearts. With sympathy and love,
Paula Forman
March 23, 2011
Lily: I know I speak for the entire West Side Middle School (Waterbury, CT) family, when I offer to you our sincerest and deepest sympathies. I was saddened greatly when I heard of your loss. Love and prayers to you and your family,
Jolene Hough
March 23, 2011
Lily, I have never spoken to you in person, but I have listened to you time and again at the NEA RA speak of your family. The love that I heard about was so truly evident and it always left me feeling good. You and your family have my prayers and sympathy at your lose.
Susan McFarland
March 23, 2011
Lily, Jeremy and Jared: Our hearts and prayers are with you at this most devastating time. I hope that your beautiful memories of Ruel will sustain you at this time.
Susan and Diane
Greg Bonaccorsi
March 23, 2011
Lily: On behalf of my wife, Diane and my daughter, Michaela, I extend to you our deepest sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
March 23, 2011
Lily, I know there are no words that I can say to help relief your grief. I hope that as time goes by, you can remember all of the good times you Ruel had together. Please know you and your loved ones are in my prayers.
Ann Smith
Phoenix, Az.
March 23, 2011
Lily and family,
I am so sorry for your loss, but know that the joy of so many years together will help ease the pain, if only a little.
Sincerely.
Jason Leichter M.Ed.
SEA/CTA/NEA San Diego, CA.
Shannon Broughton
March 23, 2011
Lily, Jeremey, and Jared,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers. May these difficult days be lined with memories of love and better times.
God Bless you all,
The Broughton Family
Scott Leckman
March 23, 2011
Lily,
I am so sorry. My prayers are with you and your family.
Scott Leckman
Lee Schreiner
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily and Family.... KNOW that you are not alone. Thoughts and prayers and love are sent your way to surround you all. Your loss is our loss. Peace be with you all as you celebrate Ruel's life.
Lee Schreiner and The Schreiner Family (Ohio NEA Director)
Damon Moore
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily, May God give you peace at this time in your life and may you and your sons know the love that we all share. Keep your eyes on the prize, remember the star light of your loved one and know that God takes care of us all. Damon P. Moore, ISTA-Retired, past President ISTA.
Rick & Laurel Draper
March 23, 2011
Dearest Lily and boys...We are so very saddened to hear about the loss of Ruel. There are no words...but we send you our love, prayers, and wishes that you may be able to cherish all the wonderful memories with your husband and dad. Many, many hugs to you. We love you.
March 23, 2011
Lily-I know that this is a difficult season that you are facing. Know that we are praying for you and your family that the Peace of God will surpass all understanding . I pray for comfort, Shalom and God's presence like you never felt before. Ruel is now Rejoicing and is assured that his family will be alright.
Mary Jane Farmer
March 23, 2011
Lily, Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your boys at this very sad time. May God surround you all with His peace.
Tom and Mary Jane Farmer - WVEA-Retired
Jean Dobashi
March 23, 2011
Lily and Family, Thinking of you at this most difficult time and letting you know that you're in my thoughts and prayers. Extending my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences on the loss of Ruel, however, you'll always get to cherish the special memories and love that you both shared. Stay strong knowing that 3.2 million NEA members LOVE you and are here to support you. Take care. My love and ALOHA, Jean Dobashi. NEA-Retired. Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii.
Rita Brusco
March 23, 2011
Lily,
Many prayers for you, your boys and the family... may your many memories keep you strong, Rita
Julie Horwin
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily,
May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, and the precious memories you hold tight comfort you now and in the days ahead.
Julie Horwin (Az Ed. Assn. Retired)
Lisa Vipperman
March 23, 2011
What a devestating thing to lose a beloved father and husband. I have only met Lily a few times, but I was saddened to hear of the death of Ruel. I will send a letter to Jared, for I know how painful it is to lose a father. May all of you find peace.
March 23, 2011
Dear Lily,
Please know that at this difficult time, you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God's holy peace surround and comfort you and your family now and always.
Jacqui Greadington,
NEA Black Caucus
Kathie Covington
March 23, 2011
Lily, I was touched by your request. I am so sorry for your loss and will write to your son because grief is real and without "arms" to hold him, words of sympathy and support can help to fill that void.
Roger Kavigan
March 23, 2011
Lily, On behalf of the nearly 1000 teachers of the Tustin Educators Association in California, we wish you all the best in this difficult time. You are such an amazing person and an inspiration to us all. Please know that our hearts are with you and your family.
Debbie & Carl Downing
March 23, 2011
Lily, our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this most difficult time. My you all find strength from knowing your friends from across the country are thinking of you and love you. Our thoughts and prayers for you
and your family. Ruel was very talented. I loved hearing you all play the guitars and hearing you sing.
Julie Macavinta-Klick
March 23, 2011
Farewell my old classmate and friend. Heaven only takes the best to prepare our eternal place of rest. Til we see each other again....my condolences and sincere sympathies to your family and friends as we all endure the mortal wait for a spiritual reunion.
Sarah Horton
March 23, 2011
Lily my heart goes out to you. May all the memories that you have bring comfort t oyou and the family. I want to send prayers for you. May God bless and keep you. Sarah Horton ( Alabama )
Tom Curran
March 23, 2011
Lily,
You and your fammily are in my thoughts and prayers.
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Read moreWays to honor Ruel Eskelsen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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