John Willard Bush

I found this treasured photo ... another Smitty's moment! I couldn't find many words during the memorial service. But I wanted to say how much Willard inspired me and seeing the way he dealt with so many heartbreaks and losses in his life, helped me through some of my own tough times. I've often reflected on how much suffering and hardship Willard experienced in his life. .. more than one person ever should. A wife that struggled with mental illness - I always loved seeing Rosalie when ever the families met at Olds and remember her gentle warmth and fragility. And son that took his own life .. Gary and I were born the same year and I always regret not making more effort to reach out to him after a he had particularly hard operation and was at home making a long recovery. And the other half of Willard's heart, Deenie ... those two were so close and I can't begin to understand how Willard survived the loss of his beautiful, talented, generous daughter. Most people who had experienced so much loss would be understandably broken, angry, bitter and defeated .. but somehow Willard's heart just seemed to get bigger, more open, more generous and he always met me with open arms, a huge embrace and a twinkle in his eye. So full of strength and courage, his life continues to be a reminder to me; no matter what comes my way, there is always a choice ... and the best and most courageous choice we can make is to choose love. And that's what Willard did. So here's to an amazing man who blessed us all. I'm so grateful to have had him in my life.