I have had many conversation over the years with Larry regarding church. Not so much about theology, but methodology. His "Brethren" background had etched in him the way a church service should be. He liked a Pastor that preached the Word and didn't take forever to do it. He liked to sing the great hymns of the faith and not the "fluffy" praise choruses that are dominant in worship services today. He liked a church with pews. He liked a church that had a cross in the sanctuary. He liked to hear a good testimony. He liked his family in church with him. He liked to serve the less fortunate around him. He liked a good pot-luck.
So it was no surprise that the Memorial Service that took place yesterday (Saturday April 17th) was pretty much one that Larry would have been pleased with.
Family and many friends gathered at 1:00 at Evergreen Community Church, in Oregon City. A small church in the country that was once where Sherry's family attended. It was held there since the church Larry and Sherry attend (Mt. View Baptist Temple) doubles as a Seventh Day Adventist church. We didn't feel we could kick the SDA's out on a Saturday!
The church was adorned with mementos and remembrances of Larry. Photos of beautiful flowers, mountains, waterfalls and spiders, picture frames that held photos of his dear Sherry, the dogs, the grand kids. A black and white photo of he and his 4 brothers in there younger days. There was NASCAR things and, of course, military medals and "Old Glory" that Sherry was presented with at Friday's graveside ceremony. There was also a sketch of Larry that was actually carved into a small white paper sack. Light from a candle inside the flame-proof sack glowed through the carving. Amazing artwork done by a friend of Sherry's sister, Cathy. This sack will be placed around a track one evening in a few weeks at a Relay For Life with hundreds of others - memorializing victims of this terrible disease.
As you entered the sanctuary you saw the simplicity of this church - complete with pews and a big cross. Up front on the communion table were two photos of Larry alongside a beautiful floral arrangement sent to Sherry by the Cameron nieces and nephews, and a large table top atrium with beautiful plants sent to Sherry by Larry's surviving brothers in Michigan. Larry told his brothers that when he passed away they were not to go through the fuss of trying to get out to Oregon for the services. He would prefer they gather at a local bar and have a beer and and share memories and just be together.
The service started at 1:00. All of the family entered from the side and took our place in the first three rows. Grandpa would have gotten a kick out of Melody, Greg and all the grand kids trying to squeeze into the first pew!! It was pretty comical. The eventually all got settled. I could hear snickers and giggles from them. Grandpa would have laughed right along with them. We were all welcomed by Larry's Pastor, Gil Hanson Jr and he read the 23rd Psalm and then prayed.
Sherry selected some of Larry's favorite hymns for the congregation to sing together. I was honored to lead the singing portion of the service. We sang "When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder" - an upbeat hymn about the believers entrance into heaven at the end of life.
Larry's sister-in-law, Cathy, then gave a testimony. She shared several stories of her life with Larry. The mischievousness, pranks and games Larry played on her from the time she was very young until recent months. She talked about how precious Larry was to her and how she will always look at Larry as a "brother".
After another hymn, Ivory Palaces, one of Larry's contractor friends spoke. The McBee family has known and worked with Larry for years. One of the sons, Steve, shared about the high respect he and his family had for Larry. He talked about how Larry was so very honorable in how he conducted business. Steve talked about when times were tough Larry and the McBee's would look out for each other and give each other jobs. That was Larry - a very respected businessman - not only from fellow contractors - but clients alike.
We then sang "The Old Rugged Cross" - a song about the cross where Jesus died, for Larry, for you and for me. It was obviously a favorite of the congregation just based on how loud they sang it!
The next testimony was from a long time family friend, Caroline Cantrell. Caroline and her husband Jim met Larry and Sherry some 30 years ago. They met when attending a support group for parents of children struggling with the law. Caroline told us how they really didn't learn much from the counselor (young, single, no kids telling them how to raise theirs), but they had so much to talk about and learn from each other when they would go out for a drink after the meeting. From that a very strong bond was formed. She shared a few stories and talked about some of the political "discussions" they would have with Larry. Caroline talked about the love Larry had for Sherry, his love for flowers, how Larry was a "giver". She talked about how she knew of Larry's faith because he lived it. Jim and Caroline each had the opportunity to speak with Larry last Friday night before he passed away. By the way, the two sons have made huge strides in turning their lives around due, much in part, to the unconditional love of their parents.
The hymns "God Will Take Care of You" and "It Is No Secret" were sung. Again, two of Larry's favorites.
Pastor Gil Hansen Sr. then spoke and shared from Gods Word. He talked about salvation - something that Larry wanted and wants for all of his family and friends. He talked about the cross. He talked about heaven and how Larry is now in the presence of the Lord - not suffering, not hurting. He challenged all of us to carry on Larry's legacy by reaching out to Sherry and helping her - particularly in the next few months as she transitions to being without Larry. Pastor closed with prayer.
So there it was, a service that was in a church, we sang hymns, there was a big cross, the Pastor preached the Word, there were testimonies and pews, and his family was present. And it was all topped off with refreshments!
After the service everyone gathered downstairs to enjoy refreshments provided by Charlene and her extended family, and church family. The reception went on for quite some time as old friends got reacquainted, family that hadn't seen each other for years getting caught up on the latest. It was a great end to an emotional service.
We are so grateful for all of those that attended as well as the countless number of you who were not able to attend but held us in your thoughts and prayers.
The plan for Sunday is to gather one more time before we all get back to life and move forward. We are getting together at Sherry's to watch a NASCAR race!! That is what Larry did every Sunday of race season. We thought it only appropriate to do this as a family - one more opportunity to honor this husband, father, grandpa, uncle and friend that we already miss so incredibly much.
We will have at least one more blog entry in the coming days just to wrap things up. We thank you for taking the time each day or week to read the latest news on Larry's situation. We have received so many kind and encouraging words, lit candles, prayers and comments from so many people that it has made this long and difficult journey a little easier to bear. We thank you for being in Larry's life - not only while he was sick, but even before. Should we never have a chance to meet and thank you personnally, please know we are a stronger family becasue of your love for Larry. And Sherry sleeps a little easier at night knowing her mate of 47 years is in the arms of his Savior and probably redoing the plumbing on his heavenly mansion.
Peace...
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Friday, April 16, 2010
Of Faith, Freedom and Family
Today, Larry James Cameron was buried with military honors at Willamette National Cemetery, in Portland Oregon. It was a beautiful day today. Granddaughter Kaity would call it a "grandpa day", since it was clear, sunny, but a little cool. Most likely the perfect climate for his photography hobby!
The morning started pretty typical. Everyone a little hurried, a few errends needing to be run - like taking Taz to the groomer, a quick stop for an Egg McMuffin at McDonalds, stopping to buy a blow dryer and making a quick trip to downtown to pick up a granddaughter at Portland State. Sherry, Greg and I went to the funeral home to pick up the remains. Eventually we made our way to the cemetery and we all seemed pretty strong. Greg and I delivered the remains, a flag and a document to the main office. Waiting in our cars, I think it started to sink in why we were there. As we wound our way through the cemetery, following "Wayne" the WNC Coordinator, it was not until we turned a corner and could see off in the distance several military men in full uniform standing ready to greet us. As if we were royalty, they stood still and quiet, saluting this family of one of their former servicemen until we all took our place in the staging area. Sherry, Melody and Greg and the grandhildren sat in the clean white chairs, the rest of us gathered behind.
The honor guard gave the gun salute, followed by "Taps" played with perfection by a young military soldier on trumpet. We then viewed the emotional and intense presentation of "Old Glory". My eyes fought back tears as three finely dressed young soldiers took the flag from the table, opened it, and refolded it with intention and purpose. With perfect coreography, the folded flag was handed to Sherry. There was not a dry eye in the place (okay - maybe one from the granddaughter that doesn't cry when she is sad, but giggles!). After the flag was presented, Sherry was handed three of the shell casings from the gun salute - one representing the service to his Lord, the second service to his country, and the third the service to his family. Sherry will cherish those momentos for the rest of her days. Pastor (Commander) Gil Hansen, Sr., closed the ceremony with scripture and prayer. The family and few close friends in attendance then mingled for awhile - reminiscing, wiping tears, shooting photos, and planning where to go for lunch!
The military men and women and the professionals at Willamette National Cemetery, were phenominal and take the utmost care of the grounds. It is a breathtaking place. You'd expect that since they do these ceremonies hundreds of times a year. But somehow today seemed extra special...just for us.
The rest of the day was spent just hanging out as families do at times like this. Looking at old photos, hearing & telling stories, taking quick cat naps and trying to prepare ourselves for Saturdays service. It will be a hard day for sure, but we are grateful that Larry lived the kind of life that makes it pretty easy to celebrate. In the next day or two we will go and place flowers at the grave, a visit I am sure we will makeoften for years to come.
Rest well, Larry, rest well...
The morning started pretty typical. Everyone a little hurried, a few errends needing to be run - like taking Taz to the groomer, a quick stop for an Egg McMuffin at McDonalds, stopping to buy a blow dryer and making a quick trip to downtown to pick up a granddaughter at Portland State. Sherry, Greg and I went to the funeral home to pick up the remains. Eventually we made our way to the cemetery and we all seemed pretty strong. Greg and I delivered the remains, a flag and a document to the main office. Waiting in our cars, I think it started to sink in why we were there. As we wound our way through the cemetery, following "Wayne" the WNC Coordinator, it was not until we turned a corner and could see off in the distance several military men in full uniform standing ready to greet us. As if we were royalty, they stood still and quiet, saluting this family of one of their former servicemen until we all took our place in the staging area. Sherry, Melody and Greg and the grandhildren sat in the clean white chairs, the rest of us gathered behind.
The honor guard gave the gun salute, followed by "Taps" played with perfection by a young military soldier on trumpet. We then viewed the emotional and intense presentation of "Old Glory". My eyes fought back tears as three finely dressed young soldiers took the flag from the table, opened it, and refolded it with intention and purpose. With perfect coreography, the folded flag was handed to Sherry. There was not a dry eye in the place (okay - maybe one from the granddaughter that doesn't cry when she is sad, but giggles!). After the flag was presented, Sherry was handed three of the shell casings from the gun salute - one representing the service to his Lord, the second service to his country, and the third the service to his family. Sherry will cherish those momentos for the rest of her days. Pastor (Commander) Gil Hansen, Sr., closed the ceremony with scripture and prayer. The family and few close friends in attendance then mingled for awhile - reminiscing, wiping tears, shooting photos, and planning where to go for lunch!
The military men and women and the professionals at Willamette National Cemetery, were phenominal and take the utmost care of the grounds. It is a breathtaking place. You'd expect that since they do these ceremonies hundreds of times a year. But somehow today seemed extra special...just for us.
The rest of the day was spent just hanging out as families do at times like this. Looking at old photos, hearing & telling stories, taking quick cat naps and trying to prepare ourselves for Saturdays service. It will be a hard day for sure, but we are grateful that Larry lived the kind of life that makes it pretty easy to celebrate. In the next day or two we will go and place flowers at the grave, a visit I am sure we will makeoften for years to come.
Rest well, Larry, rest well...
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Service Time...
Sorry folks - I left the time off the last post.
The service for Larry is at 1:00 pm Saturday, April 17th at:
Evergreen Community Church
16940 South Beckman Road
Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 720-0325
We look forward to celebrating Larry's life with many of you.
The service for Larry is at 1:00 pm Saturday, April 17th at:
Evergreen Community Church
16940 South Beckman Road
Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 720-0325
We look forward to celebrating Larry's life with many of you.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Service Planned
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Larry James Cameron is scheduled for Saturday, April 17th, 2010 at:
Evergreen Community Church
16940 South Beckman Road
Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 720-0325
The family is putting together a memory book for Sherry. If you have a memory about Larry that you would like to share, we would love for you to email it to Sherry so that we can include it in the book. Larry had such an impact on all of us - it will fun to read your stories - the serious ones and the funny ones. Sherry's email address is: sherryjoanne@comcast.net.
Evergreen Community Church
16940 South Beckman Road
Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 720-0325
The family is putting together a memory book for Sherry. If you have a memory about Larry that you would like to share, we would love for you to email it to Sherry so that we can include it in the book. Larry had such an impact on all of us - it will fun to read your stories - the serious ones and the funny ones. Sherry's email address is: sherryjoanne@comcast.net.
Sherry continues to remain strong. She met with the funeral home today to get those details figured out. Cathy and Charlene went with her - she was grateful for that. Most of the details are dialed in, although some information regarding his military service is being gathered to finalize where he will be buried.
More than anything, Sherry wants and needs your prayers, love and support. She was overwhelmed with the many calls of love and support she got today. Thank you for checking in on her.
Peace...
Steve (for the family)
Saturday, April 10, 2010
The Day After...
Greetings friends and family;
In spite of all we are dealing with today was a good day. While none of us got much sleep last night we gathered together at about 10 to have some breakfast together at one of Larry's favorite nearby places: Biscuits Cafe. Sherry, Melody and I, our daughter Kaity, and Sherry's sister Charlene went as well as my (Steve's) mother Helen and sister Kathy. It was a great time - lots of laughs. We then ventured back to the apartment and hung out for a while. Sherry's granddaughter who is attending Portland State University, came down for the afternoon and evening.
Sherry's Pastor Gil Sr and Pastor Gil Jr along with their wives came by to interact with the family a bit - share some encouraging words and to pray. Sherry also talked with Pastor Gil Sr. about the memorial service (details to come soon).
Sherry's employer, Ash Creek Associates, was having a company bowling party today. We thought it would be good for Sherry to get out of the house so we took her over to the party for a little while. She was loved on by so many great people that she works with. Many of them knew and loved Larry.
After leaving the bowling alley we stopped at another of Larry's favorites, the Macaroni Grill, for a quick bite of dinner. This time it was just Sherry, Melody, Emily, Kaity and myself. Sherry got to talk with one of Larry's favorite bartenders (Heather) to tell her the news of Larry's passing.
We got back to the apartment at about 6:30 and Sherry went straight to bed where she will likely stay until morning. She deserves and very much needs a good nights rest.
Sherry has had lots of phone calls from folks as the news is getting out. It is very encouraging to her as are the comments you all are leaving on this blog.
More details to come...
Steve (for the family)
In spite of all we are dealing with today was a good day. While none of us got much sleep last night we gathered together at about 10 to have some breakfast together at one of Larry's favorite nearby places: Biscuits Cafe. Sherry, Melody and I, our daughter Kaity, and Sherry's sister Charlene went as well as my (Steve's) mother Helen and sister Kathy. It was a great time - lots of laughs. We then ventured back to the apartment and hung out for a while. Sherry's granddaughter who is attending Portland State University, came down for the afternoon and evening.
Sherry's Pastor Gil Sr and Pastor Gil Jr along with their wives came by to interact with the family a bit - share some encouraging words and to pray. Sherry also talked with Pastor Gil Sr. about the memorial service (details to come soon).
Sherry's employer, Ash Creek Associates, was having a company bowling party today. We thought it would be good for Sherry to get out of the house so we took her over to the party for a little while. She was loved on by so many great people that she works with. Many of them knew and loved Larry.
After leaving the bowling alley we stopped at another of Larry's favorites, the Macaroni Grill, for a quick bite of dinner. This time it was just Sherry, Melody, Emily, Kaity and myself. Sherry got to talk with one of Larry's favorite bartenders (Heather) to tell her the news of Larry's passing.
We got back to the apartment at about 6:30 and Sherry went straight to bed where she will likely stay until morning. She deserves and very much needs a good nights rest.
Sherry has had lots of phone calls from folks as the news is getting out. It is very encouraging to her as are the comments you all are leaving on this blog.
More details to come...
Steve (for the family)
Friday, April 9, 2010
In The Presence Of The Lord
At 9:28 pm, April 9, 2010, Larry James Cameron was ushered into the presence of the Lord. He went fighting. Melody, Kaity and I were able to spend about 15 minutes with him - telling him we loved him and that we would take care of Sherry. Sherry's sisters April, Cathy and her husband Bill and Charlene were here as well. It is a difficult night, but we rejoice that he is not suffering anymore. To see him laying peacefully with a puppy under his arm is a beautiful sight.
Thanks for your love. As soon as decisions are made regarding any type of service, we will let you know.
The family
Thanks for your love. As soon as decisions are made regarding any type of service, we will let you know.
The family
The Time Has Come...
Dear Family and Friends,
At approximately 4:00 today Larry was given only a few short hours to remain on this earth. Obviously Hospice came at the right time. Family is gathering at the apartment tonight for prayer and vigil as Larry "graduates" from this life to the next ~ whenever that officially takes place.
Melody and I along with Larry's granddaughter Kaity, are headed to Portland right now as soon as we get Melody stabilized for the trip. Should we not arrive in time, we will rest in knowing that Melody was able to say goodbye via phone about an hour ago. Sherry held the phone to Larry's ear, Melody said her goodbye's. Larry opened his eyes at hearing her voice. It was the first time all day Larry showed any response and opened his eyes. Thus is the love between a daughter and her father. Kaity was also able to say goodbye to her grandpa. Larry responded then as well. Greg, Larry's son will be in Oregon on Thursday from Tennessee.
Thanks for your prayers for the family tonight and the impact you have all had in Larry's life on earth. Maybe he will hang on for a little while longer - but we would sure like him to stop suffering.
Love,
Steve and Melody - for the family.
At approximately 4:00 today Larry was given only a few short hours to remain on this earth. Obviously Hospice came at the right time. Family is gathering at the apartment tonight for prayer and vigil as Larry "graduates" from this life to the next ~ whenever that officially takes place.
Melody and I along with Larry's granddaughter Kaity, are headed to Portland right now as soon as we get Melody stabilized for the trip. Should we not arrive in time, we will rest in knowing that Melody was able to say goodbye via phone about an hour ago. Sherry held the phone to Larry's ear, Melody said her goodbye's. Larry opened his eyes at hearing her voice. It was the first time all day Larry showed any response and opened his eyes. Thus is the love between a daughter and her father. Kaity was also able to say goodbye to her grandpa. Larry responded then as well. Greg, Larry's son will be in Oregon on Thursday from Tennessee.
Thanks for your prayers for the family tonight and the impact you have all had in Larry's life on earth. Maybe he will hang on for a little while longer - but we would sure like him to stop suffering.
Love,
Steve and Melody - for the family.
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