REESE ANTHONY CRESTO
born August 31, 1999 to Jeff and Alison Cresto of Marseilles, Illinois at 12:23 PM at Community Hospital of Ottawa. 6 pounds 13 ounces 20 inches long. Died September 11, 1999 at St. Francis Medical Center - Peoria Illinois at 6:15 PM.
JEFF AND I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS PAGE....IT IS VERY PERSONAL TO US.... DOING THIS MEMORY BOOK BROUGHT A LOT OF DIFFERENT FEELINGS UP .... BUT ALL FEELINGS WE LOVE AND CHERISH.... WE HOPE ONE DAY TO SHARE HIM WITH HIS LITTLE BROTHERS OR SISTERS......THANK YOU AGAIN TO EVERYONE THAT HAS BEEN HELPING US GET THROUGH THIS....
LOVE, JEFF AND ALISON
"SOME PEOPLE ONLY DREAM ABOUT ANGELS....WE ACTUALLY MADE ONE"
REESE ANTHONY CRESTO
August 31 - September 11
1999
Footprints
How very softly
you tiptoed into our world.
Almost silently,
only a short time you stayed.
But what an imprint
your footsteps have left
upon our hearts.
--------
A Note from Mommy and Daddy -
Thank you-
for the gift of you.
You gave us hope
by just being you!
After the hurting
and healing are through,
we’ll treasure most of all,
the gift of you.
-------------
We will light
very small candles.
They will be warm and moving.
And we will think of you.
----------
How We Told Everyone You Were Coming
We found out that mommy was pregnant on February 17 and everyone else found out February 18th - everyone was so excited - we senT balloons and a gift to Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad - and we took Grandma and Grandpa Cresto into your bedroom (after it was painted YELLOW) and gave them their gift - we got them both - “I Love Grandpa” and “I Love Grandma” bibs with a picture frame that said “Baby” and cards that said “Guess What?” ! Mommy and Daddy were so happy that everyone was happy. Mommy told people at work by bringing a cake with baby stuff on it and that cake also said “Guess What”? Everyone loved it --
These people were so happy they even sent us cards (and gifts for you) congratulating us --
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad, Uncle Tony, Aunt Amanda
Uncle Nick bought you a dresser for your bedrrom
Bill and Debbie Cooper
Tony and Shelley Sinning, along with a stuffed animal
Cheryl Albertus, along with a Beanie Baby - The Millinium Bear
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto, with some baby booties
Tracy Mrozek
Jenny and Jason Keith, along with a baby name book and 2 books for mommy to read to you
Judy Svoboda
Nancy Harris, along with some booties
Bekah Litchfield, along with a Boyds Bear for your room
Jeanne and John Manferdini
Lynn Gegg
Lisa Kammerer
Linda Ness, along with 2 baby outfits that you would have looked so cute in (you looked cute naked also)!
Joan Defenbaugh
Amy Atkins, Scott Cooper
Jodi Keuteman
Scott and Alana Clinch
Larry, Nancy Bukatnis, along with a bear and cookies
Shelley Sinning, teddy bear
-------------
Baby Shower
Grandma Linda and her sisters gave me a shower before you were born. We had it at Aunt Cindys house and a whole bunch of people came, we had a really nice time..........
People who were there:
Grandma Linda
Grandma Patsy
Great Grandma Micki Redford
Great Grandma Mayme Cresto
Aunt Cindy
Aunt Connie
Jeanine Behrens
Janet Applebee
Carol, Callie Bolatto
Kathy Hovious
Char Nelson
Debbie Cooper
Amy Atkins
Jamie Sandor
Beth, Kassidy Weber
People who couldn’t come but sent something for you:
Tracy Mrozek
Pat Enrico
Jamie Clemens
Jeanne Manferdini
------------------
The Day You Were Born
ITS A BOY!
On August 31, 1999 - mommy had her doctors appointment at 9:00am - Dr. said you were breech and your heart rate was going up and down so he asked me if I wanted to have you that day - I said yes. I was happy, nervous and scared all at the same time. Daddy was excited and nervous also, I think I even seen a little tear in his eye when I asked him if he wanted to be a Daddy today. I went to the hospital and told your dad to go home and shower, he was helping Uncle Bill put a roof on his garage, but I told him to be at the hospital by 12:00. I think he was there by 10:30 (fastest shower he ever took I think). At 12:23 we had a baby boy by c-section. Immediately I looked at your dad and a tear fell from my eye - we were so happy. Dr. Miesner brought you over to us and told us you were having trouble breathing, that she was going to go put you on the respirator. I said OK, I thought that was normal with some babies. It wasn’t till about 1/2 hour later your daddy came in the recovery room and told me something was wrong with you and he was going to go be with you at a different hospital. I told him you needed him to go, he would do anything for you. This was the happiest day of our lives although sad at the same time - we had a beautiful baby boy - we didn’t know what was going to happen in the days ahead. Thank you for being strong enough to make it on your own with daddy and waiting for me to come and see you ---
You were so precious. You were 20 inches long according to nurse Judy and mommy and Grandma Patsy measured you at 18 1/2. So we are not for sure - Nurse Judy was probably right - we want you to be tall like your dad, not short like your mom. You weighed 6 lbs, 13oz. and you had a full head of hair - mommy even got to style it!
------------------------
People who came to see Mommy while she was in the hospital
I was so happy to see everyone who came to see me - I wish they could have seen you to, but you were at a different hospital.......I showed everyone your picture and they couldn’t believe how much hair you had and they said you were soooo cute ... they sure were right!
Visitors:
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma Baima
Aunt Susie Goetsch
Aunt Mary - She came home from Vegas to see you, mommy and daddy - we were so happy she did that.
Aunt Connie Malik
Lori Towne
Uncle Nick
Jamie Sandor
Diane Lambert
Stacey, Lexie Lambert
Jayme Lambert
Jenny, Jason Keith
Heather, Kyle Williamson
Lisa Franklin
Shelley Sinning
Cheryl Albertus
Nancy, Larry Bukantis
Johnny Pierson
Lynn Gegg
Mary Murry
Linda Ness
Joan Defenbaugh
Debby Reagan
Maribeth Manigold
Nancy Tuftie
Ann Marvel
Michelle Oschner
Pat, Neely, Olivia
Amy Atkins
Aunt Cindy Pierson and Bob
Rev. Katcher
People who came to see you and visit Mommy and Daddy while you were at St. Francis
Scott, Alana Clinch
Karen Baudino and Brenda
Lori Towne, Pam Foster
Aunt Cindy O’Donnell
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Redford
Aunt Susie
Aunt Mary
Aunt Amanda
Uncle Nick
Jamie Sandor
Fr. Harris
Molly, Tony Quigley
Aunt Bonnie
People who snuck in to see you and talk to you
Alana Clinch
Jamie Sandor
Aunt Mary
Aunt Susie
Aunt Cindy
Nick
Amanda
Tony, Molly and Aunt Bonnie went around the back of the room and seen you through the glass door
People who seen you that were suppose to
Mommy, Daddy (everyday)
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Redford - the nurses said they
could see you but in the rules it didn’t say Great Grandparents
so they were lucky to see you. We are glad they did.
-------------------
Last Moments
September 11, 1999 -- 6:15 pm, St. Francis Hospital, Peoria Illinois
Things we will always remember:
Mommy and Daddy sat in a room with Nurse Judy, Fr. Mike, Dr. Rosales and a Sister .Nurse Judy was with us the entire time, the rest of the people were in to see you for only a few minutes. You were so peaceful and
looked like a little angel. We got to rock you, and hold you close to us for over 3 hours - you were so strong and you didn’t want to go until God took you and we are so proud of you for that - you knew how much we wanted you to stay longer. Fr. Mike prayed with us and for that we are thankful. Grandma Patsy, Grandma Linda, Grandpa Terry and Grandpa Brad waited in the hallway the entire time. They miss you too. Before the nurses and Dr.’s took you off the tubes, your grandparents got to say good-bye to you .... your mommy and daddy are so lucky to have them all. They were so strong for us. I know you remember them talking to you and telling you how much they love you. Please look over them too, they also need you. Again Reese, thank you for your time on earth and not letting God take you until you were ready. We love you!
------------------
A Time for Remembering and Honoring You
Date of your memorial Service:
September 14, 1999
What we did:
It was a beautiful Tuesday Morning, the sun was shining and the weather was nice. The wake started at 9:00 at Gladfelters Funeral Home and lasted until 10:30. We had a private service and only a couple of mommy and daddys closest friends were there. You looked so peaceful and cute - you had on your outfit that I picked out for you to come home in - I guess you did go home in it - it hurts me to remember the day that I bought it - little did I know we would bury you in it.
We had an 11:00 am mass at St. Patricks church in Ottawa - The Father said so many nice things - I cannot even begin to tell you how much he helped our family out - if it wasn’t for Father Wilder - I don’t think we would know what you are doing right now. The music was beautiful, Mary Ryan and her Choir Quartet (Paul Sheedy, Joan Anderson) sang and did most of it as a gift for us.
After the mass the funeral procession went through town and up to Oakwood Memorial where we buried you in babyland. I am so glad Grandma Patsy thought of that place for you - at least you are with other babies, how appropriate for you - maybe you are all playing together.
----------------
This is what I would have liked you to know about your Daddy
Love, Mommy
Boy, I don’t even know where to begin. I know he would have been perfect. This is really hard because he was even a perfect father when I was pregnant with you -- he talked to you all the time and loved it when you pushed on mommys stomach.. Your dad is a great person and has a lot of good qualities that I know you would have inherited. He would have done anything for you. Your dad likes to work a lot, he is always busy doing something, fixing things around the house or helping uncle Nick with his house. He did so much stuff around the house before you got here - he wanted it perfect for you. He painted your bedroom, finished the hardwood floors, put up new closet doors, new bedroom doors. He did everything. He looked forward to playing with you and teaching you things. I know he would have had you skiing the day after you walked. You were going to be a boater/skier just like him. Your dad has a special place in his heart for all children - he loves them all, he can play with them for hours, I knew he would be a great father, I am so glad he got to change your diaper in the hospital when you stunk up your corner - I know he liked doing it too, I know he would have liked to do it more. He will NEVER forget you or the love you gave to him just by being you -- you opened his heart even wider. It is amazing how you - someone so small and innocent can bring so much love into your surroundings and because of that you’ve changed your dad forever.
------------------
This is what I would have liked you to know about your Mommy.
Love, Daddy
What more can I say, your mommy is wonderful. She is smart, so I was hoping you would take after her in that aspect. She lives life to the fullest, and is very spontaneous. You would have the best of everything, no second best for my Reese she would say.
I was a little concerned that she would probably baby you too much, but if she would leave I would probably have taken you in the woods behind our house to play, climb trees and hunt rabbits like I used to do when I was little. I would also have taught you to pee in the back yard in the woods (mommy hates when I do that) but that would have been “our little secret”.
Well anyway, she was totally ready for you, your room is so cute thanks to her. I know she is hurting very bad inside, but she is strong, and all the good things you did for her and I are starting to sink in and that is overpowering the hurt.
Thank you for the time you spent with her and for bringing us, and our family closer together.
----------------------
This is what we would have liked you to know about your Grandparents
They were so excited - they were going to be grandparents. They would be able to show you off because you were their child’s child, but most of all because you were you. I will never forget Grandma Patsy saying “he’ll be our special little baby” - that touched your mommy so much because we didn’t know if you would ever be able to walk, the Doctors didn’t know what was wrong with you. That meant that they would accept and love and help out as much as they could. I know they all loved you so much ... they wanted to spend as much time with you as we did. They would have played with you and watched you when mommy and daddy were busy. I can see Grandpa Terry taking you out in his garage while he organized it, or giving you lectures like he gave us ALL the time on everything. Grandma Patsy would have probably put you in your jumper while she cleaned house .. probably moving you from one room to the other. Grandpa Brad would have let you help him working around his house and cleaning his boat and tell you how to do things the right way. Grandma Linda would probably be taking you everywhere so that everyone could see you -- I think more people knew she was going to be a grandma than people knew I was pregnant.
All I know is that they all miss you so very much and would do anything to have you back.
This is what we would have liked you to know
about your Aunts and Uncles
Aunt Amanda - she would have taken you to the mall and would buy you anything you wanted. She would teach you to cheer - she would teach you how to read - she is the only one I know that has patience in our family.
Uncle Tony - he would let you play with all his toys. He asks about you all the time, he asked what your favorite color was (I told him blue), he is only 7 but I know he would have played with you all the time, he loves to play. He was so many matchbox cars - he would have made you learn all the names of different cars.
Uncle Nick - him and daddy would have taught you how to fix up houses and waterski. They would have played with you all the time in the yard. Nick would teach you how to play softball and he would probably want you to sell cars just like him.
They would have all spent as much time with you as they could and would have taught you everything they know. They also miss you
--------------------
Other Family Members who loved you
Mommys Side:
Mommies Uncles & Aunts
Aunt Connie & Uncle Bill Malik, Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Red Gregory, Aunt Mary & Uncle Termite, Aunt Susie & Uncle Randy, Aunt Connie & Uncle Billy Baima, Uncle Davey --
Aunt Cindy & Uncle Pat, Aunt Joy & Uncle Rick, Aunt Patti & Uncle Steve, Uncle Ricky & Anut Kim, Uncle Joe & Aunt MaryBeth, Aunt Linda & Uncle Mike
Mommys Cousins
Karen, Lori, Pam, Mike, Mary, Molly, Neely, Domenic, Lani, Jason, BJ, Nick, Nathan, Ashley, Davey
Cara, Casey, Anna, John, David, Daniel, Titus, Jared, Lydia, Joey, Jennifer, Jessica, Matthew, Jodi, Courtney, Katie, Jordan
Daddys Side
Daddys Uncles and Aunts
Aunt Connie & Uncle Jim Blanton, Aunt Cindy & Uncle Bob Pierson
Aunt Pat Fitzgerald, Aunt Connie & Uncle Greg, Aunt Jeanne & Uncle John Manferdini
Daddys Cousins
Beth, Tracy, Jamie, Jenny, John
Karen, Janet, Pam, Kevin, Vicki, Shawn, Heath (deceased), Holly, Houston, Joanel, Pete
We think you looked like
You had mommys chubby cheaks, daddys mouth and long fingers, mommy thought you looked like uncle Tony some days - you changed so much everyday - all we know is that you were beautiful!
--We could hold you in our arms...now we hold you in our hearts --
---------------
This is hard to understand.
We had so many dreams for you.
We wondered how we would feel
when you learned to say our names and yours.
We’ve thought about the day
when you would start to school.
We guess we’ll think about you
when the leaves begin to change
or when we see a snowflake land
on someone’s stocking cap.
We’d like to watch you
squish the mud right up between your toes
some moist, warm April day,
it’s hard to know that it will never be.
We hurt inside.
We missed you now, already.
It is hard to understand,
In fact, we dont.
--------------
Dear Reese,
We'll never exchange smiles, or walk through the park.
We'll never share a sunrise, or your fears of the dark.
I'll never have the privilage to kiss your soft face,
I'll never see you roll over, or stand up in place.
I'll never hold your tiny hand or hear your sweet voice,
I'll never have the chance to comfort you, these things were not my choice.
Some say the Lord works in many mysterious ways,
I try not to question why he made you suffer in that way.
Sometimes it's hard to go on and not fall apart,
It's amazing how quickly you captured my heart.
I hope you know the joy I felt carrying you inside,
I knew you were safe with me by your side.
I'll never forget the moment I heard your heartbeat,
Or when the ultrasound revealed your head and your feet.
When I feel sadness I look to the sky and pray,
I thank God you're in good hands every night and day.
I'll always be your mom missing you here with me,
I know the Lord has a plan and this is how it must be.
Love Mommy XXX OOO
------------
Dear Mommy
I know you miss me
since I went away.
But I will be with you
spiritually every day.
I am very happy now,
it’s so wonderful here.
Just remember, Mommy,
i’ll never shed a tear.
God is a perfect Father,
and Mary is perfect too.
i’m glad I got here early,
I won’t suffer as you do.
Please don’t have regrets
because I went to heaven.
I am truly happy now,
remember I have no sin.
I’ll have a special place
all ready for Daddy and you.
When the right time comes
for me to be with you.
-------------------
My Dad is a Survivor
My Dad is a survivor too...
which is no surprise to me.
He's always been like a lighthouse
that helps you cross a stormy sea.
But, I walk with my dad each day
to lift him when he's down.
I wipe the tears he hides from others.
He cries when no one's around.
I watch him sit up late at night,
with my picture in his hand.
He cries as he tries to grieve alone,
and wishes he could understand.
My Dad is like a tower of strength.
He's the greatest of them all!
But there's times when he needs to cry...
Please be there when he falls.
Hold his hand or pat his shoulder...
and tell him it's okay.
Be his strength when he's sad,
Help him mourn in his own way.
Now, as I watch over my precious Dad
from the Heavens up above...
I'm so proud that he's a survivor...
And, I can still feel his love!
------------------
When God sends forth a tiny soul
To learn the way of earth,
A mother’s love is waiting here
We call this birth.
When God calls home a little soul
And stills a fleeting breath,
A Father’s love is waiting there,
This too is birth, not death.
---------------
“I wonder, O I wonder, where the little faces go,
That come and smile and stay awhile, and pass
like flakes of now -
The dear, wee baby faces that the world has
never known,
But mothers hide, so tender-eyed deep in their
hearts alone.
I love to think that somewhere in the country
we call heaven,
The land most fair of anywhere will unto them
be given.
A land of little faces - very little, very fair -
And everyone shall know his own and cleave unto it
------------
Remembering
Go ahead and mention my child,
The one that died, you know.
Don’t worry about hurting me further.
The depth of my pain doesn’t show.
Don’t worry about making me cry.
I’m already crying inside.
Help me to heal by releasing
The tears that I try to hide.
I’m hurt when you just keep silent,
Pretending he didn’t exist.
I’d rather you mention my child,
Knowing that he has been missed.
You asked me how I was doing.
I say “pretty good” or “fine.”
But healing is something ongoing.
I feel it will take a lifetime.
------------------
Gods Flower Garden
Sometimes we can’t quite understand
Our Great Creator’s way.
When He takes a life so young
And leaves one withered, old and gray.
Whose life work seems finished,
Perhaps is waiting for the call.
While that life so young and tender
Held so much here for us all.
Then sometimes I get to thinking,
Perhaps this world down here below,
Is just a flower garden,
Where God’s flowers live and grow.
And perhaps when God is lonely,
Like us He loves to roam
In His garden, gathering flowers
Just to beautify His home.
Tho’ He takes the full-bloom flowers,
Drooped and withered that need His care,
Still He needs a bud or blossom,
To scatter with them, here and there.
So he takes a few choice blossoms,
Just the rarest He can find,
And because God needs them up in Heaven,
Must comfort loved ones left behind.
-------------
God’s Lent Child
I’ll lend you for a while
A child of mine God said
For you to cherish while he lives,
And morn for when he’s dead.
It may be for one or two years,
Or forty two or three,
But will you, till I call him back
Take care of him for me.
He’ll bring you charms to gladden you
And should his stay be brief,
You’ll have his lovely memories
As solace for grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since ALL from earth return,
But the lessons that are taught below,
I want this lent child to learn.
I’ve looked the whole world over
In search of teachers true,
And from the ones who crown life’s lanes
I have chosen YOU.
Will you give him all your love?
Nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take
This lent child back again?
I fancied that I heard them say
Dear Lord, Thy will be done,
For the joy thy child will bring,
The risk of grief will run.
We’ll shelter him with tenderness
We’ll love him while we may.
And for the happiness we’ve known,
Forever grateful we will stay.
But should thy angels call for him
Much sooner than we’d planned,
We’ll brave the grief that comes to us,
And try to understand.
----------
When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I heard you say a prayer, and I believed
there is a God I could always talk to.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I felt you kiss me goodnight and I felt loved.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned
that sometime things hurt, but its OK to cry.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I saw that you cared and I wanted to be
everything that I could be...
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I looked
and I wanted to say thanks for all the things
I saw when you thought I wasn’t looking.
-------------
FLY
Jean-Jacques Goldman & Phil Galdston
Sung by: Celine Dion
Fly, fly little wing
Fly beyond imagining
The softest cloud, the whitest dove
Upon the wind of heaven’s love
Past the planets and the stars
Leave this lonely world of ours
Escape the sorrow and the pain
And fly again
Fly, Fly precious one
Your endless journey has begun
Take your gentle happiness
Far too beautiful for this
Cross over to the other shore
There is peace forevermore
But hold this mem’ry bittersweet
Until we meet
Fly, fly do not fear
Don’t waste a breath, don’t shed a tear
Your heart is pure, your soul is free
Be on your way, don’t wait for me
Above the universe you’ll climb
On beyond the hands of time
The moon will rise, the sun will set
But I won’t forget
Fly, fly little wing
Fly where only angels sing
Fly away, the time is right
Go now, find the light
LOVE, JEFF AND ALISON
"SOME PEOPLE ONLY DREAM ABOUT ANGELS....WE ACTUALLY MADE ONE"
REESE ANTHONY CRESTO
August 31 - September 11
1999
Footprints
How very softly
you tiptoed into our world.
Almost silently,
only a short time you stayed.
But what an imprint
your footsteps have left
upon our hearts.
--------
A Note from Mommy and Daddy -
Thank you-
for the gift of you.
You gave us hope
by just being you!
After the hurting
and healing are through,
we’ll treasure most of all,
the gift of you.
-------------
We will light
very small candles.
They will be warm and moving.
And we will think of you.
----------
How We Told Everyone You Were Coming
We found out that mommy was pregnant on February 17 and everyone else found out February 18th - everyone was so excited - we senT balloons and a gift to Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad - and we took Grandma and Grandpa Cresto into your bedroom (after it was painted YELLOW) and gave them their gift - we got them both - “I Love Grandpa” and “I Love Grandma” bibs with a picture frame that said “Baby” and cards that said “Guess What?” ! Mommy and Daddy were so happy that everyone was happy. Mommy told people at work by bringing a cake with baby stuff on it and that cake also said “Guess What”? Everyone loved it --
These people were so happy they even sent us cards (and gifts for you) congratulating us --
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad, Uncle Tony, Aunt Amanda
Uncle Nick bought you a dresser for your bedrrom
Bill and Debbie Cooper
Tony and Shelley Sinning, along with a stuffed animal
Cheryl Albertus, along with a Beanie Baby - The Millinium Bear
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto, with some baby booties
Tracy Mrozek
Jenny and Jason Keith, along with a baby name book and 2 books for mommy to read to you
Judy Svoboda
Nancy Harris, along with some booties
Bekah Litchfield, along with a Boyds Bear for your room
Jeanne and John Manferdini
Lynn Gegg
Lisa Kammerer
Linda Ness, along with 2 baby outfits that you would have looked so cute in (you looked cute naked also)!
Joan Defenbaugh
Amy Atkins, Scott Cooper
Jodi Keuteman
Scott and Alana Clinch
Larry, Nancy Bukatnis, along with a bear and cookies
Shelley Sinning, teddy bear
-------------
Baby Shower
Grandma Linda and her sisters gave me a shower before you were born. We had it at Aunt Cindys house and a whole bunch of people came, we had a really nice time..........
People who were there:
Grandma Linda
Grandma Patsy
Great Grandma Micki Redford
Great Grandma Mayme Cresto
Aunt Cindy
Aunt Connie
Jeanine Behrens
Janet Applebee
Carol, Callie Bolatto
Kathy Hovious
Char Nelson
Debbie Cooper
Amy Atkins
Jamie Sandor
Beth, Kassidy Weber
People who couldn’t come but sent something for you:
Tracy Mrozek
Pat Enrico
Jamie Clemens
Jeanne Manferdini
------------------
The Day You Were Born
ITS A BOY!
On August 31, 1999 - mommy had her doctors appointment at 9:00am - Dr. said you were breech and your heart rate was going up and down so he asked me if I wanted to have you that day - I said yes. I was happy, nervous and scared all at the same time. Daddy was excited and nervous also, I think I even seen a little tear in his eye when I asked him if he wanted to be a Daddy today. I went to the hospital and told your dad to go home and shower, he was helping Uncle Bill put a roof on his garage, but I told him to be at the hospital by 12:00. I think he was there by 10:30 (fastest shower he ever took I think). At 12:23 we had a baby boy by c-section. Immediately I looked at your dad and a tear fell from my eye - we were so happy. Dr. Miesner brought you over to us and told us you were having trouble breathing, that she was going to go put you on the respirator. I said OK, I thought that was normal with some babies. It wasn’t till about 1/2 hour later your daddy came in the recovery room and told me something was wrong with you and he was going to go be with you at a different hospital. I told him you needed him to go, he would do anything for you. This was the happiest day of our lives although sad at the same time - we had a beautiful baby boy - we didn’t know what was going to happen in the days ahead. Thank you for being strong enough to make it on your own with daddy and waiting for me to come and see you ---
You were so precious. You were 20 inches long according to nurse Judy and mommy and Grandma Patsy measured you at 18 1/2. So we are not for sure - Nurse Judy was probably right - we want you to be tall like your dad, not short like your mom. You weighed 6 lbs, 13oz. and you had a full head of hair - mommy even got to style it!
------------------------
People who came to see Mommy while she was in the hospital
I was so happy to see everyone who came to see me - I wish they could have seen you to, but you were at a different hospital.......I showed everyone your picture and they couldn’t believe how much hair you had and they said you were soooo cute ... they sure were right!
Visitors:
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma Baima
Aunt Susie Goetsch
Aunt Mary - She came home from Vegas to see you, mommy and daddy - we were so happy she did that.
Aunt Connie Malik
Lori Towne
Uncle Nick
Jamie Sandor
Diane Lambert
Stacey, Lexie Lambert
Jayme Lambert
Jenny, Jason Keith
Heather, Kyle Williamson
Lisa Franklin
Shelley Sinning
Cheryl Albertus
Nancy, Larry Bukantis
Johnny Pierson
Lynn Gegg
Mary Murry
Linda Ness
Joan Defenbaugh
Debby Reagan
Maribeth Manigold
Nancy Tuftie
Ann Marvel
Michelle Oschner
Pat, Neely, Olivia
Amy Atkins
Aunt Cindy Pierson and Bob
Rev. Katcher
People who came to see you and visit Mommy and Daddy while you were at St. Francis
Scott, Alana Clinch
Karen Baudino and Brenda
Lori Towne, Pam Foster
Aunt Cindy O’Donnell
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Redford
Aunt Susie
Aunt Mary
Aunt Amanda
Uncle Nick
Jamie Sandor
Fr. Harris
Molly, Tony Quigley
Aunt Bonnie
People who snuck in to see you and talk to you
Alana Clinch
Jamie Sandor
Aunt Mary
Aunt Susie
Aunt Cindy
Nick
Amanda
Tony, Molly and Aunt Bonnie went around the back of the room and seen you through the glass door
People who seen you that were suppose to
Mommy, Daddy (everyday)
Grandma and Grandpa Grunstad
Grandma and Grandpa Cresto
Great Grandma and Grandpa Redford - the nurses said they
could see you but in the rules it didn’t say Great Grandparents
so they were lucky to see you. We are glad they did.
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Last Moments
September 11, 1999 -- 6:15 pm, St. Francis Hospital, Peoria Illinois
Things we will always remember:
Mommy and Daddy sat in a room with Nurse Judy, Fr. Mike, Dr. Rosales and a Sister .Nurse Judy was with us the entire time, the rest of the people were in to see you for only a few minutes. You were so peaceful and
looked like a little angel. We got to rock you, and hold you close to us for over 3 hours - you were so strong and you didn’t want to go until God took you and we are so proud of you for that - you knew how much we wanted you to stay longer. Fr. Mike prayed with us and for that we are thankful. Grandma Patsy, Grandma Linda, Grandpa Terry and Grandpa Brad waited in the hallway the entire time. They miss you too. Before the nurses and Dr.’s took you off the tubes, your grandparents got to say good-bye to you .... your mommy and daddy are so lucky to have them all. They were so strong for us. I know you remember them talking to you and telling you how much they love you. Please look over them too, they also need you. Again Reese, thank you for your time on earth and not letting God take you until you were ready. We love you!
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A Time for Remembering and Honoring You
Date of your memorial Service:
September 14, 1999
What we did:
It was a beautiful Tuesday Morning, the sun was shining and the weather was nice. The wake started at 9:00 at Gladfelters Funeral Home and lasted until 10:30. We had a private service and only a couple of mommy and daddys closest friends were there. You looked so peaceful and cute - you had on your outfit that I picked out for you to come home in - I guess you did go home in it - it hurts me to remember the day that I bought it - little did I know we would bury you in it.
We had an 11:00 am mass at St. Patricks church in Ottawa - The Father said so many nice things - I cannot even begin to tell you how much he helped our family out - if it wasn’t for Father Wilder - I don’t think we would know what you are doing right now. The music was beautiful, Mary Ryan and her Choir Quartet (Paul Sheedy, Joan Anderson) sang and did most of it as a gift for us.
After the mass the funeral procession went through town and up to Oakwood Memorial where we buried you in babyland. I am so glad Grandma Patsy thought of that place for you - at least you are with other babies, how appropriate for you - maybe you are all playing together.
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This is what I would have liked you to know about your Daddy
Love, Mommy
Boy, I don’t even know where to begin. I know he would have been perfect. This is really hard because he was even a perfect father when I was pregnant with you -- he talked to you all the time and loved it when you pushed on mommys stomach.. Your dad is a great person and has a lot of good qualities that I know you would have inherited. He would have done anything for you. Your dad likes to work a lot, he is always busy doing something, fixing things around the house or helping uncle Nick with his house. He did so much stuff around the house before you got here - he wanted it perfect for you. He painted your bedroom, finished the hardwood floors, put up new closet doors, new bedroom doors. He did everything. He looked forward to playing with you and teaching you things. I know he would have had you skiing the day after you walked. You were going to be a boater/skier just like him. Your dad has a special place in his heart for all children - he loves them all, he can play with them for hours, I knew he would be a great father, I am so glad he got to change your diaper in the hospital when you stunk up your corner - I know he liked doing it too, I know he would have liked to do it more. He will NEVER forget you or the love you gave to him just by being you -- you opened his heart even wider. It is amazing how you - someone so small and innocent can bring so much love into your surroundings and because of that you’ve changed your dad forever.
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This is what I would have liked you to know about your Mommy.
Love, Daddy
What more can I say, your mommy is wonderful. She is smart, so I was hoping you would take after her in that aspect. She lives life to the fullest, and is very spontaneous. You would have the best of everything, no second best for my Reese she would say.
I was a little concerned that she would probably baby you too much, but if she would leave I would probably have taken you in the woods behind our house to play, climb trees and hunt rabbits like I used to do when I was little. I would also have taught you to pee in the back yard in the woods (mommy hates when I do that) but that would have been “our little secret”.
Well anyway, she was totally ready for you, your room is so cute thanks to her. I know she is hurting very bad inside, but she is strong, and all the good things you did for her and I are starting to sink in and that is overpowering the hurt.
Thank you for the time you spent with her and for bringing us, and our family closer together.
----------------------
This is what we would have liked you to know about your Grandparents
They were so excited - they were going to be grandparents. They would be able to show you off because you were their child’s child, but most of all because you were you. I will never forget Grandma Patsy saying “he’ll be our special little baby” - that touched your mommy so much because we didn’t know if you would ever be able to walk, the Doctors didn’t know what was wrong with you. That meant that they would accept and love and help out as much as they could. I know they all loved you so much ... they wanted to spend as much time with you as we did. They would have played with you and watched you when mommy and daddy were busy. I can see Grandpa Terry taking you out in his garage while he organized it, or giving you lectures like he gave us ALL the time on everything. Grandma Patsy would have probably put you in your jumper while she cleaned house .. probably moving you from one room to the other. Grandpa Brad would have let you help him working around his house and cleaning his boat and tell you how to do things the right way. Grandma Linda would probably be taking you everywhere so that everyone could see you -- I think more people knew she was going to be a grandma than people knew I was pregnant.
All I know is that they all miss you so very much and would do anything to have you back.
This is what we would have liked you to know
about your Aunts and Uncles
Aunt Amanda - she would have taken you to the mall and would buy you anything you wanted. She would teach you to cheer - she would teach you how to read - she is the only one I know that has patience in our family.
Uncle Tony - he would let you play with all his toys. He asks about you all the time, he asked what your favorite color was (I told him blue), he is only 7 but I know he would have played with you all the time, he loves to play. He was so many matchbox cars - he would have made you learn all the names of different cars.
Uncle Nick - him and daddy would have taught you how to fix up houses and waterski. They would have played with you all the time in the yard. Nick would teach you how to play softball and he would probably want you to sell cars just like him.
They would have all spent as much time with you as they could and would have taught you everything they know. They also miss you
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Other Family Members who loved you
Mommys Side:
Mommies Uncles & Aunts
Aunt Connie & Uncle Bill Malik, Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Red Gregory, Aunt Mary & Uncle Termite, Aunt Susie & Uncle Randy, Aunt Connie & Uncle Billy Baima, Uncle Davey --
Aunt Cindy & Uncle Pat, Aunt Joy & Uncle Rick, Aunt Patti & Uncle Steve, Uncle Ricky & Anut Kim, Uncle Joe & Aunt MaryBeth, Aunt Linda & Uncle Mike
Mommys Cousins
Karen, Lori, Pam, Mike, Mary, Molly, Neely, Domenic, Lani, Jason, BJ, Nick, Nathan, Ashley, Davey
Cara, Casey, Anna, John, David, Daniel, Titus, Jared, Lydia, Joey, Jennifer, Jessica, Matthew, Jodi, Courtney, Katie, Jordan
Daddys Side
Daddys Uncles and Aunts
Aunt Connie & Uncle Jim Blanton, Aunt Cindy & Uncle Bob Pierson
Aunt Pat Fitzgerald, Aunt Connie & Uncle Greg, Aunt Jeanne & Uncle John Manferdini
Daddys Cousins
Beth, Tracy, Jamie, Jenny, John
Karen, Janet, Pam, Kevin, Vicki, Shawn, Heath (deceased), Holly, Houston, Joanel, Pete
We think you looked like
You had mommys chubby cheaks, daddys mouth and long fingers, mommy thought you looked like uncle Tony some days - you changed so much everyday - all we know is that you were beautiful!
--We could hold you in our arms...now we hold you in our hearts --
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This is hard to understand.
We had so many dreams for you.
We wondered how we would feel
when you learned to say our names and yours.
We’ve thought about the day
when you would start to school.
We guess we’ll think about you
when the leaves begin to change
or when we see a snowflake land
on someone’s stocking cap.
We’d like to watch you
squish the mud right up between your toes
some moist, warm April day,
it’s hard to know that it will never be.
We hurt inside.
We missed you now, already.
It is hard to understand,
In fact, we dont.
--------------
Dear Reese,
We'll never exchange smiles, or walk through the park.
We'll never share a sunrise, or your fears of the dark.
I'll never have the privilage to kiss your soft face,
I'll never see you roll over, or stand up in place.
I'll never hold your tiny hand or hear your sweet voice,
I'll never have the chance to comfort you, these things were not my choice.
Some say the Lord works in many mysterious ways,
I try not to question why he made you suffer in that way.
Sometimes it's hard to go on and not fall apart,
It's amazing how quickly you captured my heart.
I hope you know the joy I felt carrying you inside,
I knew you were safe with me by your side.
I'll never forget the moment I heard your heartbeat,
Or when the ultrasound revealed your head and your feet.
When I feel sadness I look to the sky and pray,
I thank God you're in good hands every night and day.
I'll always be your mom missing you here with me,
I know the Lord has a plan and this is how it must be.
Love Mommy XXX OOO
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Dear Mommy
I know you miss me
since I went away.
But I will be with you
spiritually every day.
I am very happy now,
it’s so wonderful here.
Just remember, Mommy,
i’ll never shed a tear.
God is a perfect Father,
and Mary is perfect too.
i’m glad I got here early,
I won’t suffer as you do.
Please don’t have regrets
because I went to heaven.
I am truly happy now,
remember I have no sin.
I’ll have a special place
all ready for Daddy and you.
When the right time comes
for me to be with you.
-------------------
My Dad is a Survivor
My Dad is a survivor too...
which is no surprise to me.
He's always been like a lighthouse
that helps you cross a stormy sea.
But, I walk with my dad each day
to lift him when he's down.
I wipe the tears he hides from others.
He cries when no one's around.
I watch him sit up late at night,
with my picture in his hand.
He cries as he tries to grieve alone,
and wishes he could understand.
My Dad is like a tower of strength.
He's the greatest of them all!
But there's times when he needs to cry...
Please be there when he falls.
Hold his hand or pat his shoulder...
and tell him it's okay.
Be his strength when he's sad,
Help him mourn in his own way.
Now, as I watch over my precious Dad
from the Heavens up above...
I'm so proud that he's a survivor...
And, I can still feel his love!
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When God sends forth a tiny soul
To learn the way of earth,
A mother’s love is waiting here
We call this birth.
When God calls home a little soul
And stills a fleeting breath,
A Father’s love is waiting there,
This too is birth, not death.
---------------
“I wonder, O I wonder, where the little faces go,
That come and smile and stay awhile, and pass
like flakes of now -
The dear, wee baby faces that the world has
never known,
But mothers hide, so tender-eyed deep in their
hearts alone.
I love to think that somewhere in the country
we call heaven,
The land most fair of anywhere will unto them
be given.
A land of little faces - very little, very fair -
And everyone shall know his own and cleave unto it
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Remembering
Go ahead and mention my child,
The one that died, you know.
Don’t worry about hurting me further.
The depth of my pain doesn’t show.
Don’t worry about making me cry.
I’m already crying inside.
Help me to heal by releasing
The tears that I try to hide.
I’m hurt when you just keep silent,
Pretending he didn’t exist.
I’d rather you mention my child,
Knowing that he has been missed.
You asked me how I was doing.
I say “pretty good” or “fine.”
But healing is something ongoing.
I feel it will take a lifetime.
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Gods Flower Garden
Sometimes we can’t quite understand
Our Great Creator’s way.
When He takes a life so young
And leaves one withered, old and gray.
Whose life work seems finished,
Perhaps is waiting for the call.
While that life so young and tender
Held so much here for us all.
Then sometimes I get to thinking,
Perhaps this world down here below,
Is just a flower garden,
Where God’s flowers live and grow.
And perhaps when God is lonely,
Like us He loves to roam
In His garden, gathering flowers
Just to beautify His home.
Tho’ He takes the full-bloom flowers,
Drooped and withered that need His care,
Still He needs a bud or blossom,
To scatter with them, here and there.
So he takes a few choice blossoms,
Just the rarest He can find,
And because God needs them up in Heaven,
Must comfort loved ones left behind.
-------------
God’s Lent Child
I’ll lend you for a while
A child of mine God said
For you to cherish while he lives,
And morn for when he’s dead.
It may be for one or two years,
Or forty two or three,
But will you, till I call him back
Take care of him for me.
He’ll bring you charms to gladden you
And should his stay be brief,
You’ll have his lovely memories
As solace for grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since ALL from earth return,
But the lessons that are taught below,
I want this lent child to learn.
I’ve looked the whole world over
In search of teachers true,
And from the ones who crown life’s lanes
I have chosen YOU.
Will you give him all your love?
Nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take
This lent child back again?
I fancied that I heard them say
Dear Lord, Thy will be done,
For the joy thy child will bring,
The risk of grief will run.
We’ll shelter him with tenderness
We’ll love him while we may.
And for the happiness we’ve known,
Forever grateful we will stay.
But should thy angels call for him
Much sooner than we’d planned,
We’ll brave the grief that comes to us,
And try to understand.
----------
When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I heard you say a prayer, and I believed
there is a God I could always talk to.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I felt you kiss me goodnight and I felt loved.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned
that sometime things hurt, but its OK to cry.
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I saw that you cared and I wanted to be
everything that I could be...
When you thought I wasn’t looking,
I looked
and I wanted to say thanks for all the things
I saw when you thought I wasn’t looking.
-------------
FLY
Jean-Jacques Goldman & Phil Galdston
Sung by: Celine Dion
Fly, fly little wing
Fly beyond imagining
The softest cloud, the whitest dove
Upon the wind of heaven’s love
Past the planets and the stars
Leave this lonely world of ours
Escape the sorrow and the pain
And fly again
Fly, Fly precious one
Your endless journey has begun
Take your gentle happiness
Far too beautiful for this
Cross over to the other shore
There is peace forevermore
But hold this mem’ry bittersweet
Until we meet
Fly, fly do not fear
Don’t waste a breath, don’t shed a tear
Your heart is pure, your soul is free
Be on your way, don’t wait for me
Above the universe you’ll climb
On beyond the hands of time
The moon will rise, the sun will set
But I won’t forget
Fly, fly little wing
Fly where only angels sing
Fly away, the time is right
Go now, find the light
