Georgette: My condolences to you and the entire Van Arsdall family.
I was fortunate to have met your mother when I was growing up in Lakeview in the early 50's. Brief as it may have been, she was so welcoming and gracious.
I have fond memories of those early years, making frequent trips to the post office where your dad, uncle and grandparents were working. It was there that I met your mom. I don't recall seeing her there much, but when she was there, she would help me empty my little red wagon of the soda bottles I had collected for reimbursement.
This is my chance to reminisce of those days. Your dad and uncle always had to unlock our mail box for me because I was too short to reach the lock. They assured me that as soon as a box located on a lower area became available, they would reassign it to our family.
I recall your grandparents being in the post office as well, tending the merchandise. It was truly like a mom and pop store! After cashing in on the empty soda bottles, I would purchase a few sweets, but when I didn't have enough coins to pay for an item, your grandmother would let it go and say I could pay the difference the next time around!
The last time I ran into your dad was in 1993 at the Lakewood Fred Meyer store. After so many years had passed since the days in the early 1950s, he still remembered me. Such a memory! He offered his condolences for the passing of my father. That was truly touching.
It's sad to know that these loving people - your grandparents, your uncle and your parents - are no longer here, but rejoice in their journey and presence with the Lord.
Again, my thoughts and prayers to you and your extended family.
Former Lakeview resident
Ben Cables