My Uncle Leslie was one so kind and loving to me as a child.  He taught me my love for fishing.  He use to take me out blue gill fishing, using a cane pole and then we would bring back our catch and I would watch him clean the fish for my Aunt to make for dinner.  He taught me trust - which was something that did not come easy to me because of my childhood upbringing.  I once had a horrible splinter and he took me in the bathroom and brought out a knife - which to me looked huge and I started to cry.  He said "Sharon Lynn - I promise you that I will never hurt you."  And he was correct, he took that splinter out with such ease.  And even today I use that line with my grandchildren in an effort to instill trust.  I trusted my Uncle Leslie because he was an honest man who was revered by so many with his kindnesses.  His moving his family to Coldwater, MI allowed to me fall in love with the water.  To this day, when I need peace in my life - I find myself finding water to surround me and listening to the birds and just being quiet.  My brother, Jeff and I have spent hours telling stories of our wonderful experiences in Coldwater, MI at my Aunt and Uncle's fishing camp.  The best part of my childhood was spent safely with my Aunt Wanda and Uncle Leslie.  I am grateful that he could die wth the grace and loving kindnesses he showed me throughout my childhood.

Rest in Peace Uncle Leslie - I will never forget what a difference you made in my life.

Love Sharon Lynn