Thoughts from the T-Shirt Lady

A few weeks ago, right before Christmas, a dear friend’s husband - Lewis - passed away.

I had been doing craft shows for years. We moved out to the country about 11 years ago, and I wanted to get a feel for the local craft market.

The city library had a book sale every month that was well attended. They decided to invite local crafters to set up tables inside the building where the book sale was taking place, in the hopes that crafters would do well, and it would attract more customer for the books.

Met a really nice couple who made baskets by hand. Both of them worked on the baskets and did beautiful work - I have several of their creations. We’ve been friends ever since.

Over the years, we traveled together in caravans to other craft shows around the state and beyond, and had a really good time - even if the craft shows were not real successful, we had the companionship of friends.

Lewis was over 70, had diabetes, but was in good health. He was scheduled for knee surgery. After a few days in the hospital, he came home. About a week later he passed away. They seem to think it might have been a blood clot. 

We keep hearing about things happening when you go to the hospital, it’s just never been so close to home. We will miss Lewis very much. He was always so friendly and ready to help in a minute.

I don’t think that his diabetes had anything to do with it, since he seemed to be very healthy and strong. He wouldn’t have had surgery if he wasn’t in a strong condition.

My friend had a memorial service for Lewis - he was cremated, so no funeral. Many of their friends, whom they had known for years, attended and told stories to those gathered about things they remembered. It was very moving. A video was created and shown - with pictures spanning his life.

All in all, it was comforting to know that Lewis was loved by so many people.

Sandi