RIP Shirley Meurer

On Sunday I went to Shirley Meurer's wake. It was in Delhi - at the same funeral home that handled Dad's service. I was a little spooked about going because of that, and because I hadn't seen or talked to Shirley's kids in something like 40 years.
But, for Mom and Dad, I went. I stopped by the cemetery first to say hello to Dad and Mom, and to let them know Shirley was on the way. The cemetery was closed, so I yelled through the fence.
Then on to the funeral home. It was a step back into my past. Shirley and her family lived behind us when I was growing up. We spent many hours at their house. Dad and Mom were closer, though. Their friendship endured, kept alive by bridge games and dinners.
When I entered the funeral home I was greeted by Colleen, and Amy, two of her younger daughters. I spoke to Greg - the oldest, and Joe who is my age. And Kathy - who is a Bill's age. Everyone but Mary - I'm not sure she was there. I listened to many Shirley stories, her humor was well known, and learned she was known to many as St. Shirl.
After the family, I moved on to others. I walked up to a circle of white haired little ladies and introduced myself as Barb Perzel. OMG they were so happy to see me! Mothers of friends from Delhi Swim Club, and friends of my parents. They told me how much the miss Dad and Mom. I heard that I look like Mom, I also heard I look like Dad. And I heard I have Dad's laugh.
I saw most of the Hater family - Diane, Donna, and Mark. I saw Kathy Grote and Gayle Plogstead. I saw Mrs Hater, Mrs. Mathers, Mrs. Grote and so many more semi familiar faces.
I also learned Mr. Plogstead passed away 4 months ago.

And so - the circle of life has completed for Shirley. Please say hi to Dad and Mom for me.