Wow, it was a rough a week during our visit to Bluewater Lake. I received an early morning phone call on August 2. When I saw it was from my brother in California, I thought my dad had fallen again, but this time it was my mom. She passed away in the early hours of the morning.
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| Kathleen (Kay) LaVerne Ferreira Musser - 1922 to 2016 |
People always say that even when it's expected, or a long time coming, death is still a shock. I never understood that, but now I do. My mom was a super strong, healthy person physically, but she had dementia for many years and was in a facility for dementia patients for five or so years. It seems longer than that...
Mom and Dad before they were married, San Francisco, CA
She was on hospice care a few times and always rallied. But this time she didn't. She would have been 94 on September 8.
I think the family is relieved as well as sad. My mom's condition has been very hard on my dad, Frank, who will be 94 in November. They've lived apart for more than five years and my mom didn't know him, didn't react at all when he visited. He had already lost his wife, but couldn't mourn her because she was still living. It wasn't an easy situation. I think it's a good thing that he can stop worrying about her, and finally go through the mourning process.
Dad and Mom showing home movies at the San Mateo, CA house
My mom and dad were married for more than 75 years and were one of those old-fashioned couples who loved each other and did everything together. I never heard them argue when I was growing up. My dad worked and took care of the outside of the house, mowed the lawn, washed the cars, etc, and my mom stayed home while I was growing up and took care of the kids and did the shopping, cooked the meals, did the washing, ironing and the housework.
Mom and Dad at the Trevi Fountain, Rome April 1970
She always said, "I wait on your dad hand and foot." And she did. He was the boss, but looking back, I think she actually had most of the power. You know how that goes!
They had a good life together, and three children who are all doing well, eight grandkids and even great-grandkids. They have a lot to be proud of.
You were loved, and you will be missed. Rest in Peace, Mom.
