A few weeks ago my grandma Jan passed away. Fortunately we were in Montana when her health took a turn for the worst and we (as well as Elsie) spent some good time with her before she passed away.

here we are before Elsie was born (you can see her in my tummy). 🙂

Grandma Jan

Just a couple of days before she passed away Brit delivered dolls to Elsie and Saffron – Grandma had each doll specifically made to match the features of the grandchildren. She didn’t get to see this photo – but here are Elsie and Saffie with their dolls in their matching yellow dresses (also from grandman Jan).

Girls with Dolls

We returned to Montana a few weeks later for the Memorial. We had a lot of family come to town for the memorial and with the help of many we put on quite a celebration.

We created photo boards of the many phases of grandma’s life … (we couldn’t just settle on one photo)

photoboards

Josh put together an amazing video complete with Josh commentary and many many photos (maybe if we ask nicely he will put it up for us to see – but don’t hold your breath, I still don’t have my wedding video 5 years later).

My grandma was a member of the red hat society and her Happy Hatters all showed up decked to the nines!

red hats

Elsie celebrated Grandma’s fun spirit by wearing a poodle skirt!

poodle

We enjoyed hearing many great stories and meeting many people that had touched my grandma’s life – its amazing how much one lady can accomplish!

DSC_0031

food

Here are the Richau’s (Clem, Bonnie, Ron and my Great Grandma Esther – My grandpa lavio’s step-mom)

richau's

papa

My parents hosted another gathering at their new (soon to be remodeled) home…

dinner

cousins

hungry

gabby

It was a true celebration of a wonderful Grandma, Great grandma, Mother and friend. We will miss you Grandma!

Obituary from the Billings Gazette