I am only 6 years older than Aaron, and remember when his family moved to Paradise. I haven't seen him in many years... But I remember the summer his mom was pregnant with the twins. My sister, Alenae, and I went every day to help Kathy with the kids and to help out around the house. I don't remember what we did to help out. I'm not even sure that we were much of a help. But, I do remember getting to know the kids, and having a great time! But most of all, I remember Aaron. I wasn't that old, myself, and he was only a boy. But I saw his greatness even then! He was gentle, and calm, patient and curious, and had the sweetest spirit. I remember how much I loved being around him. Years are not always kind to memories, so I don't remember many specifics. But I remember going for walks, catching butterflies, playing by the pond, playing air hockey, and listening to Aaron take his turn practicing piano.Life gets so busy, and it's so easy to lose track of people. But thoughts of Aaron have come up at various times in my life. Though I was far away, I was so proud to learn about his decision to serve a mission when all the baseball teams were trying to draft him. When he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins, they instantly became my favorite baseball team... even though I lived in New York, and was surrounded by Mets and Yankees fans. I eagerly watched and waited, hoping to see this boy I knew someday make it to the big league, and was sad that opportunity never came. But I still have the card and autographed baseball that my younger sister acquired for me, and have always been proud of Aaron, and having the opportunity to know him.But it's not really because of the baseball accomplishments that I tried to follow Aaron. I followed his accomplishments because I knew Aaron, and had always been impressed by his character. I knew he would be great in whatever he chose. That's why I followed him.Many years have passed, and my time is mostly focused on my own family now. My husband and I have two boys, both with athletic ability, the oldest son in particular... though I have no idea where it came from, as neither my husband or I are particularly athletic. But I have often thought about Aaron as I've watched our older son grow. The athleticism brings him to mind, but it's Aaron's character that keeps him in my thoughts. His character as a boy left a lasting impression that has stayed with me always.Hearing this news breaks my heart. But I do believe in miracles, and pray that a miracle will be yours!Barbrina Beck Ertle
As Aaron's family, we think he is the greatest and we know there are many others who feel the same way. He is a friend to all and sees the best in everyone. Our Big A is truly one of a kind. Aaron has always been a healthy guy and has never smoked a day in his life. When he became sick in January, we never dreamed it was anything serious. Multiple doctors told him it was Bronchitis. By March, he and Sweet Lorraine knew it was something more serious. X-rays were alarming and the biopsy showed Adinocarcinoma Lung Cancer. He will soon begin treatment. He and Lorraine, along with Kaitlin, Maddie, David, Brigham, Ella and Lily are asking for your faith and prayers.
Barbarina, it is so wonderful to hear from you. I remember well that summer. Your service to us is one of the warmest memories in my heart. As I remember it everyday Alenae cleaned and cooked while you with your marvelous imagination and sense of adventure and fun entertained the children. They loved you. We appreciate your love and concern.
ReplyDeleteKathy Thatcher
Hi Kathy,
DeleteI'm sorry so that life has put so much distance between me and so many people that have such a special place in my heart. And I'm especially sorry about the circumstances that have brought our lives back together. But I do want you to know what a special place you and your family do have in my heart. You were always such an inspiration for me, and you have always been my mental "go to" when things get tough.
Quite a number of years ago, I was called as our Ward Relief Society President, at a very difficult time in my life. But I always thought of you, and knew I could do it.
And I know that your children have grown into amazing individuals - not that I ever had any doubt. I truly hope that I can raise my children as well as you did yours.
Please give Aaron, and all of your family, my love. But especially Aaron. He truly does have a very special place in my heart. My prayers are with Aaron, you, and your whole family. I am so grateful for the power of prayer.
Love, Barbrina
I want to learn everything about your life and family. So happy to hear you served as Relief Society President. I bet your children are brilliant like you. They still refer to you as the brightest student who ever went to Mountain Crest.
DeleteKathy
Hi Kathy, I'm so honored and humbled by the reference as the "brightest student who ever went to Mountain Crest". But I know that talent and intelligence comes in so many different packages, and your family has been blessed with their own amazing gifts. I would love to share with you what I've done with my life, though, and to catch up with you about your beautiful family. I can't tell you how pleased I am to be back in touch with you and your amazing family. I would prefer to do it via email, though, so I could send you some pictures, etc. My email address is: bertle@optonline.net
DeletePlease email me so I can respond and share my life with you!
With much love, Barbrina
Oh, my goodness- how sweet of you, Barbrina. It is so wonderful to hear from you. We love your family so much.
ReplyDeleteHi Alison,
DeleteIt's so good to hear from you, too! Although it's been so long, I can still see you as a little girl with your long, dark hair! I love your family, too, and am grateful, despite the circumstances, to have reconnected with you. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love, Barbrina
I also still have the baseball card that Aaron signed for me. I miss those carefree childhood days (and who can forget the air hockey :), but I appreciate the people we have all grown into. I am keeping your family in my prayers! -Elynn Beck
ReplyDeleteOh, beautiful Elynn,
DeleteSo good to hear from you. I'm too old for all this internet communication stuff, it feels like such a miracle and we like miracles right now.
Kathy Thatcher
I just had another memory of Aaron... the very first time I heard the song, "We'll Bring the World His Truth", was as a special number during a sacrament meeting. It was sung by Aaron, and I believe Jeff, and I think a third boy sang, too, but I don't remember who. But I remember Aaron. That is one of my favorite songs from the Children's Song Book, and I do think of Aaron every time I hear it. I hear him singing, "We are as the armies of Helaman..." and I always thought those words sounded so perfect coming out of his mouth. Those words always fit his character.
ReplyDeleteYou were right that it was Aaron, but the other two boys were Rick Obray and Chris Baldwin. They were great. Love you Barbarian
ReplyDeletekathy