Dear Family,

I'm so sorry to hear of Uncle Johnny's passing. My memories of him are so intertwined with all of you, my cousins. I remember coming to your house for so many holidays--for some reason Easter is most present for me--collecting eggs and eating such good food. I also recall summers of picking cans of blackberries in the creek. I remember how you took such good care of us younger cousins (with the exception of you, Michael--I think you were the only was who was younger!).

When I read Uncle Johnny's obituary, it reminded me of his laughter--it was distinct. I am now in Croatia where I am spending a year on my sabbatical. Besides working, I'm connecting with our family history/heritage and I think of all of you more because of it. I have seen Kate Sisevich's home and when I did, I cried. If you would like to connect with me, I'd like that.

Lots of love to all of you,

Mala

My dad was one of a kind. Always loved to laugh, found humor in lots of situations. When I was a child, dad would build a damn and we had a huge swimming hole to enjoy on the hot summer days. In the winter time, when the electricity would go out, dad would get his oil lamp out, set it on the table, and all of us kids and dad would play Monopoly. He'd take us on camping trips, go fishing, and loved nature. I'll miss my dad tremendously. Love you forever Dad, Michelle