Tuesday, May 31, 2016

OUR FRIEND, MIKE, FOUND HEAVEN THIS MORNING- ROGER FOUND IT EARLIER

I don't even know where to start
with this post.
To say we are in a state of shock
would be an understatement.

A while back I did a post
about MyHero's friend, Mike.
MyHero and Mikey have been friends
since they were young.
They drank together when they were young
and gave the devil a chase down the alley
on more than one occasion.
However---
In their early adulthood they settled down.
(well-kinda-almost) 
 Mike led a jail ministry and witnessed
about how God had changed his life 
to anyone that would listen
and to some that didn't want to listen, too.

When Mike and his wife were younger they
had a band.
He had a phenomenal voice and sang like
Kenny Rogers and they made beautiful
music together.
These are pictures of Jan & Mike
each taken with their youngest son, Nate.
I am stealing Nate's pictures but
I don't think he will mind.
About 20 years ago Mike had 
almost the same cancer
that MyHero has now.
He beat it but lost a tremendous amount of weight
and has never been able to eat properly 
since then.
He became weaker and weaker and lost
his ability to do much of anything.

MyHero convinced him to get a feeding tube
several weeks ago.
Mike started to put on weight 
and was feeling better and brighter.
He went back to leading his bible study group
and was 'plugged in' to life again.

This morning, unexpectedly, God called
Mike home.
We are all in shock at this point because
he was feeling better than he had felt in years.
Maybe we all needed to see the 
OLD MIKE 
before he became the 
NEW MIKE in Heaven.

He leaves behind a beautiful wife, Jan,
Two sons, Chad & Nate,
a sweet daughter, Terra,
(plus their spouses)
and beautiful grandchildren.
Please pray for them as they navigate the waters
of grief.
Also, pray for John/MyHero as he mourns the 
loss of yet another long-time friend.

We also lost another friend, Roger, 
earlier this week.
I have not had an OK to do a post about him
so I will make this brief.
Please just send prayers and healing thoughts
to his family, too-his wife and two sons
and spouses and grandkids.
God will know who you are talking about.
Just say you are praying for 
Roger-who was bigger than life!

ps.  He was a musician, too...
I bet he and Mikey are up there
setting those angel toes a-tapping.
Not sure Heaven was ready for 
either of them!!!

your photo name

73 comments:

Joy Junktion said...

I am in Shock Diana! I am SO very sorry for these losses. I cannot even imagine how John is doing! These families will be in my prayers over the next days, weeks and months!! You and John as well ❤️❤️

Debby said...

This is a loss of three friends just recently. How awful. I can't imagine how hard this is for John and for you. I just don't have words. Yes I will be praying. Higs

At Rivercrest Cottage said...

I didn't get my twinkle lights down on Memorial Day as I told you I would, so they will twinkle on in the morning for these two special friends of yours. Prayers going up, hopefully blessings coming down for their families...and for you and John. Twinkle on little lights.

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

So sorry for your losses. This has been such a difficult year or so for you and your loved ones. Your faith is strong and will get you through.

Lucille said...

So very sorry, Diana! Very sad! Both families have a strong faith and this always helps tremendously at times like this. It's always hard to lose our friends. There has been so much sadness for you and John these last few months. Hang in there. Hopefully there are better times ahead.

Kathy said...

It's hard to believe I am reading about yet another two of your friends who are in the presence of God. I'm so very sorry for their families and for you and John, their dear friends. Praying for all of you. So sad.

Sweet Tea said...

How your heart much ache with the loss of two special friends.
I sometimes wonder how far our hearts can stretch when we're faced with grief.
I wish I could send some "happy dust" your way and that you and John could
feel strength and happiness with no pain and concerns. May God bless you and the families of these
two special friends who are at home with God.

God's Grace Overflows said...

I'm so very sorry to hear of your losses. So sad. I will definitely be lifting each family up in my prayers.
Sending hugs...
Amy

Laurie said...

So sorry for the loss of your friends. Hugs and prayers for you, John and the families.

Pam Kessler said...

I'm so sorry Diana. I will keep their families in my heart and prayers today. Hugs to you and John.

Launna said...

Diana, it's sad to read of death coming quickly and unexpectedly. The grief process is a difficult one to handle. I'm grateful as I know you are that we have a knowledge of what will come, there's more and better...

Pom Pom said...

I'm so sorry, Diana. Praying.

Preppy Empty Nester said...

So sorry for your losses, Diana. I continue to keep you and your hero in my prayers.

a writing place said...

What words...?

Just wishing you well, with this latest sadness...

Hugs,
Tessa

Anonymous said...

oh my gosh,, you all have had so much sorrow in the last while, too much,, I keep you all in my prayers and I think of you and your hero often, I keep wondering if on this day he will be able to eat again,,I think of him often,, give him my best wishes,,

Sonny G said...

prayers for all of those grieving.. healing thoughts for your Hero's complete healing.
much love to all of you

Chatty Crone said...

I am kind of in shock myself. This past year has been awful for you and John and of course the families of the men who died. I am so sad for everyone concerned. That is just weird. God be with all of you.

Down On The Farm said...

I don't even know what to say. My prayers are with these families, and with you and John. God is using you to stand in the gap for these families. To look past your own valley and to lift others up in prayer. James tells us to "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." You are praying for others and God is going to honor that. Prayers for all sweet friend. Keep your eyes on Jesus. He is the only thing we can count on. Blessings to you and John.

Simply LKJ said...

Oh wow. My heart goes out to your sweet hubby John, to you and the families of these wonderful men. Will keep all in prayer!

"Cottage By The Sea" said...

My prayers will be with you and your two friends and their loved ones. What a beautiful tribute you wrote here. I'm sure it will bring some comfort. Your loss is Heaven's gain. May they both rest in eternal peace.

Susie said...

Diana, I am almost in shock. I can't believe how much your family has been thru and your beautiful friends. I will pray for all of you. I am praying extra hard for John.. He now has to be stronger than ever. We lost a childhood friend on Friday....she was our neighbor girl from when we were in grade school and we always stayed close. Blessings to all of you, love you Diana (be strong honey), xoxo, Susie

Kim said...

Diana I am so sorry to hear this news. It is so sad. Of course I will say prayers...for you all. xoxox

cards4ubylouise and other treasures said...

Sorry to hear all this news about death....the last battle. But the best is yet to come. Prayers for you all.

S H Elliott said...

Oh my. I guess they were needed at home. Prayers. sheila

The Joy of Home with Martha Ellen said...

Goodness, Diana, you have had so much sadness. We will lift your friends families in prayer. Do take care of yourself and John. xo ♥

Connie said...

I am so sorry and will pray for both families. Being a believer and knowing that this ending is just another beginning is a great comfort and a blessing. It's a passage that we all must face and I believe it will be a marvelous passage. Saying that, it doesn't make it any easier for those left behind to grieve. Sending prayers to all that are hurting, God Bless.

Nancy's Notes said...

I am just so sad to hear this news about both of your dear friends. I'll be thinking of their families and of you and your hero. Just a difficult time, I'm so sorry.

Nancy's Notes said...

Hit send before I was finished. Will be paying for all of you. Take care Diana.
xo

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

Oh my I am so sorry to read this. Goodness you two have had plenty of grief laid on your shoulders in the past year. I hope you both can find some solace with your faith through all of this.
Keeping you in my prayers and thoughts.

Alex said...

So hard, this must be for you guys. Keep strong! I am praying for their famiies and for you. Xx

Alex said...

So hard, this must be for you guys. Keep strong! I am praying for their famiies and for you. Xx

NanaNor's said...

Dearest Diana, it seems you and John have walked through the valley of grief a lot lately. Words can't express the sorrow you must be feeling and the loved ones of these friends. It certainly seems heavens population is growing. Praying for all concerned!
Love,
Noreen

Carla said...

Diana,

No words. Just prayers for all.

Carla in Kansas

Carla said...

Diana,

No words. Just prayers for all.

Carla in Kansas

Celestina Marie said...

Diana, I am so very sorry to read this post. My goodness the sadness in this loss for the families and dear friends like you and John. I know your hearts are breaking. You've seen so much loss in the last year. Words are just not enough to offer comfort, but please know, my prayers and sympathy are with you both. God Bless those families in the days ahead with peace and comfort. Sending you hugs and friendship. Many prayers~xo

AnnMarie aka Vintage Junkie aka NaNa said...

And there is my 3....you know that saying about hearing about deaths in threes? I am so sorry about your two friends....oh my, so much loss lately. I will add their families to my prayers every time I think of you. A sweet couple we lost touch with resurfaced lately with the husband having cancer and in hospice. He just passed this week and we will see them again Saturday at the service.

GARAGE SALE GAL said...

Praying and sending you hugs...
warmly,
deb

Wanda said...

So sorry to hear this. Will keep the families in our prayers. We love a nephew this week. Don't know the details yet. Most likely a heart attack ~ so young 57. No sure if Rick had a personal relationship with Jesus. Hoping so. Sending love and hugs.

This N That said...

This age is really tough. We lose so many friends.you have lost more than your share. I guess there is something to be said for not having a lot of friends. It's kind of a trade o you have lost more than your share. I guess there is something to be said for not having a lot of friends. It's kind of a trade off.sad for all concerned.

Kay G. said...

Oh Diana, you know I am praying. It is very hard to lose friends, I think in some ways, it is more difficult than most people realize. "Recall a happy memory as often as you like, you can never wear it out". xx

Jettie said...

My friend, Frank, is up there writing songs and Singing, so I'll bet these two are there helping him.
I know how hard it is to lose a dear friend, and to lose 2 in such a short time, really makes you wonder.
Prayers for all of them, and for John, as he grieves the loss of his friends.

Sherry @ No Minimalist Here said...

Diana, I am so sorry for the loss of your friends. This is so sad and my heart goes out to the families.

Grammy Goodwill said...

I am so sorry for you and John on the loss of your two friends. I know their families are grieving as well. May God give all of you comfort and peace.

Cecilia said...

Oh no Diana. That is beyond sad. I am praying for the families and for y'all too. What a shock. I pray John will not be disheartened but can remain strong. May God give you all peace during this difficult time of losses. Hugs,
Cecilia

Debbie - Mountain Mama said...

Oh, Diana, I am truly so sorry - sending you warm hugs from NY xoxo

amazingsusan said...

All I can say is good thing you have faith.

Rose L said...

Loss is always sad. As I grow older I see it more often. May the Lord bless both families and give them strength.

camp and cottage living said...

The Lord is calling many of his sons home lately. My dear friend Vee lost her husband, John on the 28th. It was shocking. Please pray for her as well. I will be praying for your friends families too.

Michele M./ Finch Rest said...

Oh, my word - so many heartbreaking losses! I am so terribly sorry, D. Hugs and love, honey. So sad for you all. ♥

Marilyn @ MountainTopSpice said...

Oh Diana! The shock of losing loved ones is immense, and after all John has been through too, then to lose friend after friend... my heart and prayers go out for you all and for the precious families who are dealing with great grief right now. I just noticed that Vee, a fellow blogger lost her husband this past week as well. Praying for you my friend, and please let John know that he is being held up in prayer during this time, that the Lord would strengthen and encourage his heart somehow in the midst of all these losses!

Stephen Andrew said...

Diana, what an incredibly trying time you and your loved ones have gone through lately. I am so very sorry for your losses. I know your heart and mind are strong but I wouldn't blame you for just needing to go scream WTF at the lake. How truly incredible that your hero was able to convince his friend to keep living and get back to his real life. I think this would be much harder if that hadn't been the case. Living our lives, connected to people is the way we all want to go. I hope he's proud of himself and I hope you all feel peace and find comfort in loving each other and remembering the raucous and hilarious times. Really, truly sending you my love and best wishes. If I were there I might make you a mourntini which is a martini with a bowl of pasta. Haha so maybe it's better than I'm not!

Maria Elena said...

So sorry for these losses.Sending my love and prayers to their families and to you guys. Take care. Maria

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

Dear Diana ~ I am so sorry for these two losses.

Love, hugs & prayers for their families and you and Your Hero ~ FlowerLady

Musings from Kim K. said...

Please know I'm so terribly sorry for your losses, Diana. I don't even have the words. Hugs!!

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

Oh, Diana, so sorry to hear about this huge sadness. So much loss. Prayers for these family and for you and John {hugs}

Art and Sand said...

I am so sorry for your losses. You have been experiencing way too much death and the people were way too young!

I hope John is doing well.

Susan Freeman said...

I am so sorry for the loss of your friends. I understand the emptiness as I lost a friend unexpectedly last week too. Sending you love and hugs.

Susan and Bentley

Rustic Maple Elizabeth said...

Sorry for the losses of these men, your friends. Continued healing prayers for your John.

Carla from The River said...

Sending prayers, this has been a hard year for your family. I continue to pray.
Sending Love and Prayers,
Carla

Cranberry Morning said...

Praying for your friends' families and for you and John as you also bear this grief. This life is so short. It always makes me think of the saying, 'Only one life will soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.' Many blessings on you, Diana, for being a kind and caring friend and your ministry amongst so many.

Okio B Designs said...

So very sorry to hear of your losses. =(

Jeanine

Anonymous said...

Oh, I am so very sorry to hear you have had two more very hard losses. These past months has been so difficult anyway but this completely boggles my mind for you... and my heart, too.

I am holding you and the family and other friends of these two fine men up to our Father for his comfort and strength.

Holding you close,
Lily

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

Oh Diana I am SO VERY SORRY! What a double blow of shock and grief to have in your lives right now.

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

Oh Diana I am SO VERY SORRY! What a double blow of shock and grief to have in your lives right now.

BeachGypsy said...

Oh mercy Diana!!----i am stunned and dont even know what to say. God be with you. My condolences at this sad time

Junkchiccottage said...

Diana,
So sorry for your loss. I know it is so hard to lose a good friend and to have to lose two close to each other. I am praying for both you and John as you feel the loss and pain of saying good bye to your sweet friends Mike and Roger. So sorry for your loss.
Hugs my friend,
Kris

Donna said...

Oh my Diana, so much loss and sadness. My heart goes out to you, and to the families of those men. I feel so bad for you and John, it has been a really rough year for you. Sending you love and hugs and prayers.

Jill said...

Oh my heart aches for you, your husband and the family and friends of these special men. I am truly sorry to hear this news Diana. Keeping you all in prayers and sending hugs...

Blessings,
Jill

Lux G. said...

I'm so sorry to hear about this.
May you, your family and his find comfort in God's presence.

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

Oh, I am so very sorry, Diana. My heart breaks for you and John, losing such dear friends. Sending prayers. Hugs xo Karen

Pinky said...

I am so sorry for these losses you have had! I wil be praying for both families and you too! These guys looked way too young to be taken. So very sad. Hugs.

Feral Turtle said...

This is just so sad. I am truly sorry for you all and my prayers are with both families.

Leena Milligan Lanteigne said...

I am so very sorry to hear of the losses of your friends! What a terrible shock and so sad! I will pray for their families and for John. Hugs, Leena