Reflections of Aunt Dana from the Gifford Family

Aunt Dana was a wonderful, caring and thoughtful woman, and she will be sorely missed by our entire family.  While we have had many memorable experiences with Dana over the years, when we sat down to talk about what we wanted to say about Dana, we immediately thought of the same memories that, while they are very simple, say a lot who Dana was and what she meant to our family.

First, there were Aunt Dana’s cards for every member of the family on every occasion.  Without fail, no matter what the occasion, holiday (whether it was a birthday or Valentine’s Day) or family member (and there are a lot of us), you could always count on receiving a card or note from Aunt Dana.  This was symbolic of her thoughtful and caring nature, and it was much more than just a gesture.  With busy lives and long distances between families, it was her way of keeping in touch and letting us know she cared and was thinking about us.

Second, we hold fond memories of spending warm summer afternoons, when visiting Toledo, sitting around the pool chatting with Aunt Dana, while the kids splashed around.  Of course, Aunt Dana was always the gracious host.  But more than that, we always looked forward to catching up with Aunt Dana and sharing in the beautiful surroundings that she seemed to enjoy so much.  We will cherish those times, and it makes us happy to remember Aunt Dana in her element.

While we will miss Aunt Dana, her presence in our lives is not lost.  Our fond memories of time spent with her and her thoughtful and caring nature will have an enduring impact on our lives and will not be lost by her passing.

Love,
Carey, Colby, Abby, Maggie, Lily and Sophie