The Weeks That Were

Much has happened since my last post: Sister Valery visited for eight days, Ben graduated from high school, and the boys lost their great-grandfather, Arlan Maples. Here's the obit from the local paper:

Arlan C. Maples

Obituary

Arlan C. Maples, 90 years, of Rogersville passed away May 9, 2013. He was born July 1, 1922 in Stone County. He served in the Army and was a veteran of WWII. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Rebecca Maples, five brothers and two sisters, one grandson Steve Maples Jr. and his wife Robin. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Bernice, his son Steve, daughter-in-law Julia, grandson Timothy, granddaughters Casey, Krista and Amanda and many great-grandchildren. Arlan retired from Reyco and enjoyed farming and carpentry. He had a large garden every year and would share his bounty. He and Bernice enjoyed spending time with family, neighbors, and friends. He was a very kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed by all who knew him. Funeral is set for 1:00 P.M. Monday, May 13, 2013 at Green Lawn North with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Green Lawn Cemetery following the service with full military honors. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Springfield Missouri Veterans Cemetery Assistance League. Envelopes for donations will be provided at the funeral home.

Published in the News-Leader on May 12, 201

Arlan entered my life when my daughter Robin, married his grandson in 1995. In my experience he was a gentle, sweet, patient, loyal, and smart man with quiet reserve. His name has been perpetuated as Logan's middle name, and he will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.