In memory of Uncle Ben Doolen,

I will miss Uncle Ben and I am sad that he is no longer in this world. He was a pillar for his family, ready to listen, share his experience and help guide us toward better choices and outcomes. I remember him at the picnics and where he always did more than his share to make it an occasion that everyone looked forward to and enjoyed. He visited us in Hawaii and was

so caring for Aunt Pauline who was suffering with cancer then. . . we were so proud to share the tropical beauty of our Enchanted Lake neighborhood with Uncle Ben and Aunt Pauline and for Erica and Ken to have REAL relatives

visit, just like the neighbors seemed to always have. I mostly remember that Uncle Ben was Steve and Terri's Dad. I liked to go to their house and play. . . it felt like home too. I remember Thanksgiving Dinners at Grandma and Grandpa Purcell's... Uncle Ben was there. I was proud that my uncles had been in the military but not sure why Uncle Ben was in the Navy and Uncles' Walt and John D. and Carl in the Army. Now I know it didn't

matter.

Uncle Ben is from our Nation's "Greatest Generation." He served his

nation, his family, and his faith. He is loved by his family, admired by his friends and respected by his associates. He was a GOOD MAN and all of us who knew him are better because we did. We miss his physical presence now and cherish even more the memories and experiences we shared with Uncle Ben. We do not understand the mystery of this transition from mortal to eternal life, but must trust that our creator will never abandon our immortal souls. I believe that Uncle Ben is in a much better place now, called Heaven and that we must celebrate his life and cherish our memories

of him. Rich Gragg