Monday, December 16, 2019
Brian was the most compassionate, thoughtful and wise friend anyone could possibly have. He was full of fun and always had good words to say, especially to anyone in need of encouragement. The marriage of Brian and Beverly was one to admire and imitate, grounded in faith, mutual respect and love. Models of how a marriage and life should be lived. Their children were blessed and all have grown into men to be respected. To say that Brian lived an admirable life would be a vast understatement. His life was lived as a celebration and we will celebrate his passage to eternal life. When Brian met God, he surely heard the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." The only comfort to be taken at this time of loss is that we will rejoice with him again when we reach our heavenly home. Meanwhile, we will take comfort in our faith and in the joyful and poignant memories he left each of us. We want to share one of the many memories of Brian and Bev that so clearly exemplified Brian and Bev's spirit.
In 1987, we enlarged our family of two to five with the adoption of a sibling group of three children. Some of our family members and friends felt this was not a wise thing to do and that we would someday regret it. (We haven't!) On the evening that we went to bring the children home from their foster home we headed back for the 2 hour drive home tired and not just a little bit overwhelmed. It was a mixture of excitement, anticipation and fear! When we arrived home we were surprised that the lights were on. When we entered there were Brian and Bev singing out welcome home, welcome home! They had driven all the way from Southgate to Oscoda (a good 4 hours) bringing a decorated cake and gifts for all five children to celebrate the beginning of a new life for all of us! They sat and chatted offering words of encouragement and love that will remain with all seven us forever! We sat and enjoyed their company until after eleven pm. They never let on that poor Brian had to be to work at 5 AM the next morning! Through the years there were frequent phone calls and visits back and forth filled with joy and comfort. To our dear Brian, God has blessed you and us through you! Fly free and be at peace. We will see you soon! And to our dear Bev and boys, God comfort you and fill your heart with His peace and comfort. Love you all, Bob and Rose Shoemaker, Bremen, Indiana
