My Uncle Mark and Aunt Melissa have always been two of the kindest, most selfless people I've ever known. Virtually inseparable, they were married just short of 47 years and were the gold standard of what unconditional love should look like. For years they were deeply involved in serving their communities and church. They took tender care of chronically ill family members for many years without giving it a second thought. They consistently chose to see the silver lining in every difficult situation they faced. I cannot recall a time when either of them said a malicious thing about another human being.

 

Simply put, Mark and Melissa have always put others first. They lived simply and loved greatly.

 

It brings me great sorrow to say that on Friday, March 12, Melissa passed away at 67, with Mark at her side. Although Melissa had lifelong physical challenges, her passing was completely unexpected. But despite his grief, Mark did what he always does - he found ways to lift up those around him. He made sure to express in detail his praise and gratitude to every nurse and staffer who helped care for his wife, writing down their names so he could send notes later. He thanked his pastors profusely for coming to support him. He walked out of the hospital giving a kind word to every worker he passed along the way, never drawing attention to the fact that he had just lost the love of his life. I spoke to him last night on the phone, and the majority of the conversation was him telling me how proud he was of me for things I was doing with my life, as well as his gratitude for each and every family member for everything they had been doing during his time of need.

 

Even at his toughest hour, Mark lives to serve and give thanks.

 

He hasn't asked for financial help. But I know if the roles were reversed, he'd be the first to ask what he could do. I know that the medical bills and funeral costs are substantial. While it's not in his nature to accept help, I'd love the opportunity to offer Mark the support from others that he has always been more than willing to give to them.

 

I thank you in advance for any contribution, however small. It would mean more to my family and me than I can put into words.