To the editor:

Dear friends, this is the day I want to thank each and every one of you who attended the memorial gathering for Helen Katherine Weigel Bone that was held at the Little Brown Church in Maxwelton on July 11, 2009.

I want to thank George and Lila Mills for making the Little Brown Church available to us. George and Lila’s roots go deep in the valley and in the 100-plus years of history of this amazing facility and the land on which it sits. Their love and the calling that they have received is making it possible for the rejuvenation of this South Whidbey landmark that is so familiar and meaningful to so many.

I want to express my love and gratitude to Pastor Susie Crandal, who served this church and her little flock for seven glorious years. It was Susie and Eddie who raised this historic church to its deserving place in history from its sad and neglected condition when she drove up to this church and heard her calling from God. She clearly answered.

It was Pastor Susie who stood beside me and my family once again on that warm July afternoon. Once again, she held us up as we struggled with our grief before all of you loyal and devoted friends. Helen loved Susie so much, and Susie loved Helen. Now we all know why.

Why, you may ask, is the Maxwelton Valley, the Little Brown Church and its people such a compelling story of Helen Bone and this family?

Helen felt the draw of this land and the love for this church for all of nearly

50 years that she lived in this valley. It became a part of her for all to see. It was here that together we wondered about the mystery of life and discovered the magic of love. For the greater part, we loved it there. It gave us all an identity.

I do not know how to thank each one of you in a personal way for the huge part you have played in Helen’s life. I am sure that Helen will live on in every moment that someone thinks of her or brushes against someone who does.

Her presence is that powerful. No one can or should fill that piece of emptiness that Helen’s passing requires.

Just know that I will always thank you for sharing your condolences and love for our precious Helen on that warm July day.

With lasting love, from a world without Helen.

Bill, Beth, Kathy and Bill Bone

Maxwelton