On May 3, Ruth McFarland, our mother and grandmother quietly slipped away.

Although she lived for 92 years, it's still difficult to let go.

Because of the caring and kind treatment of Sunnyview Home, letting go, while not easy, gave her family an easier peace of mind.

Unable to care for herself during her final years, but frightened at the thought of leaving the home where she raised her children, Ruth became a reluctant resident of Sunnyview.

At first, she kept asking when she could go home; but once she realized that her cares and concerns were lifted from her shoulders by very capable hands, her initial dismay became appreciation and gratitude.

She no longer faced the challenge of performing nearly impossible tasks, tasks that were once everyday chores.

And surrounded by so many people, residents and staff alike, she was never alone and never lonely.

As her family, we were granted the serenity of knowing that her wants and needs were taken care of.

We owe the staff of Sunnyview a deep debt of gratitude for giving her such excellent care in her time of need.

And also, to Joyce, the nurse at Butler Memorial Hospital the night Ruth passed away, we owe our appreciation for her kindness and compassion. She was there to hold a hand and offer a hug while we dealt the reality of losing our beloved mother and grandmother.

Our thanks to all who made Ruth's life and death a little easier for her, and for those she left behind.