Joel Patton
Dear Family,
Life lessons can be perplexing and learned in hindsight especially when it is too close to the heart. It wasn't until I had a stepdaughter and blended family that I realized what a sacrifice it is to take on a child's wellbeing and to embrace them as your own. Fran took on three of us with already having four of her own. Through her love for my Dad and her generosity of spirit created a home where 7 children could come together and survive divorce and thrive. There were many times when our children/stepchildren rebelled and spat in our face yet today when we look at the as adults we know it was all worthwhile. I know beyond a doubt that I was one of those ungrateful adolescents. Thank you Fran for choosing the high road and putting up with my immaturity and selfish behavior. Hurt people hurt people and I definitely was hurting. Rest easy in heaven with Dad and smile knowing that your sacrifice and impact wasn't lost on me.
Joel Patton
