Passings

 Happy almost new year.  I dedicate this posting to Bob Lewellen, who died at the age of 100 on December 26th.  Bob and his wife Jane, who survives him, were faithful library users and supporters.  Most recently they made an extraordinarily generous donation to the library, post lightning strike, to establish the Lewellen Children's Area.  Up until earlier this year Bob and a crew of what they referred to as "grumpy old men" met in the Local History Room to talk about all manner of issues that bear contemplation, from politics to finance and history.  They were regulars on Tuesday mornings and will be sorely missed.  

A bit closer to home, library staff member Barb Diaz lost her mom, Gloria shortly after Christmas.  She also surpassed the 95 year mark.  I didn't spend much time with her, but somehow felt I knew her through Barb's antic (and loving) story telling.  Some images persist, including when the diminutive Gloria showed up one Halloween dressed as the good fairy, complete with wings, mask  and wand.  As I picture it, her head was barely over the counter top and the staff working on the desk that day did not know who she was.  Needless to say, they were a bit taken aback, but were clued in by Barb's hysterical laughter.  I also remember that Barb and her mom took a road trip to Florida accompanied by their tomato plants, which Gloria couldn't bear to leave at home.  Why not have fresh produce for the trip!  Our hearts go out to Barb and we wish her great joy in remembering her mom.