Sad News

Last night my Grandpa passed away. Although he wasn't in perfect health, his death came as a surprise to us. My grandpa suffered from a mental illness the majority of his adult life. I always struggled with my feelings for him because he could be so lovable one minute and then so insufferable to my mom and her siblings the next. My grandpa did have many great and corny qualities. He loved to tell jokes, had a good heart, and was devoted to God. So, while I'm sad he's gone.... I'm also happy knowing that he's in a better place - one which allows him to think clearly and see everything for what it actually is.

Here is the obituary my mom prepared about him:

Leroy Eugene Marchand, of Yelm, passed away on April 22, 2009. His parents were Joseph and Marie (Qunell) Marchand, and he was born on October 28, 1932 in Moxee City, Washington. Leroy is survived by his three children, Charles (Angie) Marchand, of Yelm, Cindy (Robert) Cecil, of Yelm, Teresa (David) Robinson, of Tenino; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, a brother, George (Geri) Marchand, and a sister, Evelyn Kruzic, of Tacoma. He was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Nancy Lee Cummings, who passed away on August 1, 2007. Leroy Marchand graduated from Yelm High School in 1952 and was Senior Class President and was voted "most likely to succeed." He married Nancy Lee Cummings on September 6, 1953 and they moved to San Francisco, where Leroy served in the Navy as an electrical technician. He continued his studies in electronics and worked as an electrical technician at different places such as Los Altos Community College. He and Nancy’s mutual love for flowers eventually motivated them to open Crystal Springs Flowers Shop, the first flower shop in Yelm. Leroy had a lifelong interest in flowers, electronics, sustainability, and developing alternative ways to conserve energy. He had an abiding faith in God, and he supported many international missions for children. Leroy was especially fond of telling jokes and retelling stories from his youth. His sister, Evelyn, was especially dear to him, and the family thanks her for many years of loving care she provided. The family extends their thanks to the fine staff at Rosemont, especially Peggy and Elizabeth, whose loving care helped him greatly. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Columban’s Catholic Church in Yelm on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, at 11:00 a.m., with a graveside service at the Yelm Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to local funds to support veterans, or to support overseas missions for children. Comments for Leroy can be posted at: www.woodlawn-forest.com.

My grandpa is on the far right: