In Memory Of Christy

Memories from Wayne on October 28th 2009

2009-10-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

I have taken the day off today to stay home and read through this blog, look at all the pictures, and watch the video of the funeral. This has been a bitter-sweet time, an avalanche of memories and their accompanying emotions indeed. Truly, one cannot live in the past, but this blog has provided me and others a vehicle to go back in time and visit, being able to stop at these precious viewpoints along the road and linger, the mind wandering off into other memories that the viewpoint brought to mind, and then get back in the car and go to the next of these many viewpoints. The great thing here, is that the Lord’s voice is still heard loud and clear in the scriptures quoted throughout, in some ways even clearer now. Christy’s silent testimony that she rendered by just living in sync with the Lord Jesus also still speaks, I am so thankful that others have captured by their comments here in this blog of what was silently so powerful in her life. As the apostle Paul put it in Colossians 1:27 “which is Christ in you the hope of glory.”

There is not a day that Christy does not come to my mind in some way, she has formed much of the fabric of the life that we now live. Her children and grandchildren have traces of her character, and are the fruit of her and our prayers. Even Priority Appliance Service bears the impress of her fingers behind the scenes, she was so involved in the setup of the company as far as moral principles, it was the persons that she cared about, not the business side as much. She prayed so intently for each one that worked with us. Those that have joined our ranks in the last 2 years are likely not aware of this woman of God that cared so much for the environment that they would eventually come to work in.

I the last eight months that I spent with Christy, I was amazed at how she cared so much for those that she was leaving behind. There are persons (that will not be named here), that she prayed for intensely on a daily basis, some at work, some neighbours, some friends, etc. Primarily these were persons that had not at that time come to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour. From her place of communion with God and the resulting security that she had, she seemed to have a profound sense of sorrow and pain for them, knowing that they may someday step out into eternal darkness and judgement, naked and alone. To one I heard her say, “if by means of my death you could know the fulfilment of knowing Jesus as Lord of your life, I would gladly die right now here before you.” I was deeply affected by those words at the time, and still turn them over in my mind.

Christy carried another care, it was for her husband, what would become of him as a widower. In the last 8 months of her life, and of our time together we talked about everything that we could possibly talk about before being separated. I did not realize what she was doing at the time, but in many of those conversations she was preparing me for the next leg of my journey with an uncanny, almost prophetic sense of what was coming. There were discussions about our children, grandchildren, my diet, exercise, service for the Lord, and many of the things of life as a widower. I admit to not liking those discussions much as I didn’t like the idea of borrowing from the future’s troubles, the ones I was dealing with at the time were about as painful as I could handle. Probably the most difficult were the discussions in which she insisted that I be open to being remarried, she could see it, she could see the kind of person, and told me all about her. It was impossible for me to comprehend that at the time. I realize now that the Lord in His awesome wisdom directed her/us into those discussions to prepare me for what was to come. As I see it now in retrospect, Christy in her unselfish love, so perfectly set me free. She was being set free of everything here and was moving on to be entirely His in His heavenly home. I think now that she was careful to not leave me with any outstanding obligations to her. She was commending me to another lover if it was the Lord’s will. Those of you that are close to me now, know that this has happened in a way that is impossible to comprehend without the word miracle written over it all. Whatever Christy saw or perceived, or hoped for, has been exceeded in a way that deepens the meaning of mercy and grace in our souls. The words from John 2:10 speak eloquently and capture the sense of awe. “ but THOU hast kept the good wine until now.” I have always known that God is love, that he is exceedingly good, even when He allows suffering. But His goodness and grace in bring Kasia and I together now as man and wife, and as fellow labourers in God’s house, it is just so like God to do such a thing!

Kasia and I had my dad, Stephen and Jeff and their families over this afternoon and for dinner, as a little commemoration of Christy. As we talked, we sure were conscious of the legacy that she has left us. It is everywhere, even in Nathan, he was wearing a little sweater that Christy bought for Jeff when he was a little tyke, I remember it so well.

The sweetest thought of all regarding Christy is that she is actually and really conscious in the immediate presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, that is heaven, anywhere that He is.

2 Corintians 5:6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say and willing rather to be absent from the body, and present with the Lord.

Memories from the girls of Gramma

2009-10-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

Abigail's memories
Before she died she would always say "I cannot wait to see you in heaven, dancing and skipping with the Lord Jesus!"

When we went to Gramma's house, she would get out the playdoh and we would make play doh cakes and she would pretend to eat them. We pretended it was her birthday! We would even sing Happy Birthday.

She would read us lots and lots and lots of books every time we went to her house. Even when she was not feeling that well.

Whenever we had to leave to go home, we were always so disappointed. We wanted to stay there longer.

I remember Mitsy, Gramma's dog. She would run and around and chase her tail whenever we would come over. She was glad to see us, and Gramma would always laugh at Mitsy. Mitsy was Gramma's special friend, but she died.

Annie, the cat, was another good friend of Gramma's. Annie took good care of Gramma.

I used to have long talks with Gramma on the phone. Almost every time, Gramma would say "Annie's jumping up on my lap now" and Gramma would hold up the phone to Annie to say Hi. We would have good conversations together.

Bethany's Memories
We would always pick flowers from the yard before coming into Gramma's house. She would say "Oh thank you girls! Let's get a glass and put the flowers in some water." Her whole windowsill would be full of flowers.

And I remember she would always smile every time I saw her. She was never unhappy. I never saw her unhappy.

She would always tikkie our backs with her "tikkie" nails!

Gramma would always stand at the end of the driveway and blow kisses and wave and blow more kisses until we were out of her sight. We never saw her go back inside because she'd always wait.

She would always wear pink and purple and light blue and dark blue. She usually wore long skirts.

I remember we would always make cards for her at her house.

And she would make us boiled eggs and put them in special egg cups, a boy and a girl and a baby. She always did it, but we wanted them that way too.

She would take us for walks on the dike, as long as she was able to walk.

She always made blueberry smoothies every time we'd go to her house.

Melissa has no memories of Gramma, so she had nothing to add. :(

A note to Wayne

2009-10-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

To my son Wayne,
It has now been two years since Christy passed into the presence of her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. It is amazing how quickly time passes. However, there is hardly a day that goes by that I do not think of and remember dear Christy. Under her circumstances and suffering I would not wish her back. She is now with her Lord which is far better. I greatly miss her bright smile, her cheerful salutation of "Grampa!!", and her devotion to her sons and grandchildren, who in turn loved her immensely. I remember especially during Pearl's long and difficult trial, Christy bestowed love, care, understanding, help, and encouragement to us both.

Now much has happened since 2007. The Lord has lovingly given you a new love - Kasia, a newborn child of God. "God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform." It is wonderful to see how the grandchildren have accepted and loved their new "Gramma". She also has won my approval! May you both be greatly blessed and be a godly testimony to Kasia's family members and to those at Priority. The coming of the Lord draweth nigh - perhaps today!

With love,

Dad (Walter)

Has it really been two years?

2009-10-28T05:09:00.000-07:00

Mom, we miss you so much! We still remember your sweet, cheerful voice and bright smile. We will never forget them...or you! You've been with the Lord two earth years now, but the Word of God says that a day with the Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as a day. (2 Peter 3:8) So time has ceased to exist for you. You dwell in the peaceful and joyous presence of our Lord and Savior, probably unaware of the passing of time on this planet here.

"When this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" I Corinthian 15

Oh, we really cannot wait for the moment when we'll see Christy clothed immortal! The girls and I were talking at breakfast about what "Gramma" will be like in heaven when we see her! So gloriously beautiful, no earthly words will be able to express! Her body will be made absolutely perfect, and her soul...oh, she will be completely and utterly happy and satisfied. The joy and love she expressed for her Savior on earth will be exponentially greater in heaven, for she will be with her Beloved whom she longed soooo badly to see. And her spirit no longer hindered by any mortal or earthly thing will display the character and nature of God as only a saint of God in heaven will be able to do. She will sing and speak His praises, she will be completely enraptured with her Savior's face. She will be a direct reflection of her Maker! I know for a fact that God has a very special place in heaven just for her. And it will be very near to Himself.
We talked about how we will no longer have the same relationships we have had on earth, as those served their purpose on earth but will not be needed in heaven. Instead, it will be a thousand times better! We will recognize each other and we will remember the relationship we had on earth. But I'm fairly certain we will be preoccupied with our Lord and Savior. He will be the center and focus of our existence. Come, Lord Jesus!

-Susan

Memories

2008-10-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

One year ago today Christy passed into the presence of her Lord. It's a bittersweet time for her family...sorrow that she is not with us and at the memory of her sufferings and death, but also sweet memories of her and the ways she touched our lives. It is ironic that she passed away in October, which is breast cancer awareness month. Christy is one of the many hundreds of thousands whose lives have been claimed by this disease. Even now it seems a bit unreal that she actually had cancer. She always seemed so healthy with a spring in her step and color in her cheeks from a walk in the fresh air or gardening. Two things stand out in my mind upon reflecting Christy. One was her love for her Lord, never dull or boring but exuberating passion and vibrant joy in the One she talked about constantly. He was as real to her as life, and she lived in very obvious enjoyment of Him. The second thing was her adoration and affection for her "grandbabies". She was completely taken with them, and she often said how she wished she could stay here for their sakes, and felt so badly about having to leave them. I have never, and probably will never again, see a grandma who was so attached and loved her grandchildren so dearly. Certainly she was almost that way to a fault, but nevertheless her delight in each of them was unparalleled except by the Lord Himself. I miss her as "Grandma" too, for my children's sake, but realize and accept that God had His purposes in taking Christy home.

One of the fondest memories I have of Christy was during my first year after moving to Richmond. I would go over to her house sometimes if I was lonely or bored. She would greet me bundled up in several layers of clothes and the windows open because she loved the fresh air, even in wintertime! Then we'd have frozen blueberries and afterwards drink peppermint licorice tea because we were cold! But she always had bright smiles and would make me feel very welcome. Sometimes we'd get into her van and go to the mall or the health food store or the Christian book store. Other times we'd sit around and talk. I remember one time I was using their computer in the office and had to stop because my fingers were so numb from the cold that I couldn't type! Believe it or not, we didn't have a computer at our house yet, so I'd often go and use theirs. One day Jeff came in (he was still at home then) while I was typing something and gallantly presented me a ring box with a ribbon around it. Being gullible, I opened it and inside was a HUGE brown spider (one of those wolf spiders I think)! Well, he got great pleasure out of my reaction. I threw that little box with the spider in it across the room, and to this day I don't know where that spider went! That was the end of my computer time that day...for all I knew that horrid creature was hiding under some papers on the desk waiting till I was unprepared before he crept out again! I mention that because I went to Christy for sympathy and got absolutely none! She laughed and laughed, and I daresay she set him up to it for all I know! She loved to play tricks on people, especially in the earlier years. Steve remembers sitting in the hot tub in the back of the house, and suddenly a bucket of cold water would splash down on them (probably followed by gleeful laughter!). She often played tricks on a neighbour friend (Susan Parenteau) as well as others.

In later years, Christy became less "fun" as she experienced difficulties and increasing poor health, but our relationship deepened and we became close friends. The thing I miss the most is our phone chats when we would talk for sometimes over an hour and share what was on our hearts. In the first few months after her death I sorely missed this. Now, it is possible to look over this blog and remember her as she was...standing at the kitchen sink preparing fruit salad on Sunday afternoons, seeing her delight when the grandchildren came over, her happiness while tending her garden or talking to a friend about the Lord, and her sunny smiles across the meeting room which seemed to brighten the whole place up! But we'll have to wait until we reach heaven to see her radiant beaming face! Can't wait to see her amazing joy and perfect happiness as we are reunited in the presence of our Lord! :)

If I could ask Christy this!

2008-10-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

Mom,

"What will it be to dwell above,
And with the Lord of glory reign,
Since the blest knowledge of His love
So brightens all this dreary plain?"

She would probably say something like this:

"No heart can think, no tongue can tell,
What joy [it is] with Christ to dwell!"

But we can speculate what it will be like:

When sin no more obstructs the sight,
And flesh and sense deceive no more,
When we shall see the Prince of light,
And all His works of grace explore,
What heights and depths of love divine
Will there through endless ages shine!

When God has fixed the happy day,
When the last tear shall dim our eyes;
When He will wipe these tears away,
And fill our hearts with glad surprise;
To hear His voice, and see His face,
And know the fulness of His grace!

(words by Joseph Swain)

Ah, words do not do it justice, I believe. For there are no earthly words that can describe the pleasure we will experience of seeing our Lord and Savior face to face and to behold His beauty and His glory. Right now we are just waiting for the "Rapture"....when our eyes at last shall see Whom our hearts have loved so long!

Sincere thanks to all from Wayne

2008-01-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of you that sent such appropriate and comforting cards, letters, scripture verses, email messages, posts to the blog, and phone calls. I am sorry that I have been unable to respond individually to each one. My daughter-in-love, Susie has arranged the cards in a huge scrap book for me. You have been used by God to bring tremendous comfort to my heart. With certainty I can say that I have experienced the answers to your prayers. I offer my thanks, praise and worship to God the Father, and His Son Jesus Christ for the way in which I have been carried through the storm. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them that are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3+4

The journey is not over yet, so please continue to pray for contentedness and quietness of heart, I need to be in the good of Psalm 131:2 “Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.” It is good for us all to participate with our Father is His wise ways of weaning us from what His wisdom and love sees fit to remove or deny in our lives down here.

in Christ,

Wayne

Links to audio of funeral service

2008-01-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

Direct links to a voice recording of the funeral service in addition to the video are available in the following formats on the recorded ministry website:

Listen live now using Real Audio http://www.recordedministry.com/christy/christy.ram
High quality MP3 file download http://www.recordedministry.com/christy/christy.mp3
Low quality MP3 file download http://www.recordedministry.com/christy/christy-low.mp3

Wayne

Funeral Video

2007-12-31T22:56:00.000-08:00

1 Month now without Christy...

2007-11-28T23:41:00.000-08:00

It was a tearful morning today as so many memories came rushing back, especially when I heard the song I posted yesterday. The song takes me back to the very moment that the Lord Jesus released Christy from her body and took her into His immediate awesome presence. It was so clearly Jesus that was calling His dear Christy away, she was at that moment all for Him, she ceased to be mine. Believe it or not, this is still ok with me. I am so glad that they are both enjoying each other right now. As I reflect today on how she travelled through the valley of the shadow of death with all of it's suffering, it still amazes me how she did it so beautifully, so gracefully. As hard as it was for me, I am overcome with gratefulness to God for leading her/us so gently, resulting in her participating with Him in her very own death as a willing partner to His victorious plan.

Many are asking "how is Wayne doing? he needs to keep posting on this blog a bit longer." I will give a short answer here, but in days to come will post more. I will be travelling to Manitoba with Marlin Schmidt this Friday returning next Thursday, so may write some on the road.

I am doing very well, my heart and mind have been filled with praise and thanksgiving to God for all the way that He has led Christy and I in the last 30 years. It is just so awesome to reflect on the privilege of Christy's company and her spiritual companionship through the years, I have so many beautiful memories. I have pictures of her everywhere, and the casket lid is here in my living room, that may seem weird to some of you, but it is a comfort to me. It has a scripture painted in gold, "in thy presence is fullness of joy, at thy right hand are pleasures for evermore" Psalm 16:11, along with many other precious verses are slowly healing me.

I am enjoying the quiet here in this house by the ocean, it is very peaceful. I do not have any problems sleeping or being lonely at night, except when I read Christy's journals before sleeping. For about 10 days I was reading one journal a night and crying myself to sleep, but have quit now, there will be another time when I can do that.

I am cooking very healthy as Christy taught me (all organic of course :) not eating at restaurants hardly at all. But I do need to get back to Pilades and more importantly back on my bike soon, as I am a backslidden cyclist, I put my bikes away for the last couple of years while nursing Christy. She was always after to me to go out and ride to blow off steam, but my time with her was more important to me. It was a very small sacrifice. Will aim for ~30km a day to start, by summer I need to be able to do 130 km once a week without hurting. I am praying about spending a week cycling through the Okanagen valley with a light pack, a bible, and a credit card in the late summer.

I am keeping busy with lots of things around the house that have been neglected. I also need to spend one-on-one time with our technicians at Priority, it has been a long time that I have been away from them. Everyone at Priority has been so incredibly supportive. We also have some new techs lined up as possibile candidates to start working with us, this is a large undertaking.

It is late, must quit now and hit the bed.

We miss her

2007-11-28T08:40:00.001-08:00

As I go through the day now, my mind often goes to Christy and how much we miss her. And I am once again impressed by the frailty of life. Our life and breath is a daily gift from our Maker - Christy was well aware of that. But knowing we will never see her again on earth, never hear her loving voice, never be able to enjoy the friendship and kind compassion of dear Christy brings tears to my eyes and I marvel at how death is as real as life. Some days I look at the photo of her on my fridge and almost can't believe she's really gone. I wish she was still here, though healthy. I wish I could still call her on the phone and talk like we used to so often. I wish I could ask her to pray knowing that she truly cared and would definitely pray. But then I think about how much she longed for this, how MUCH she wanted to be with her Lord, whom having not seen she loved! And I think of the untold wonder and unspeakable joy she is experiencing now, uninterupted bliss, completely at peace and rest. And I cannot but be happy for her. Life here goes on for us, and we are the ones who must carry on living, carrying her memories with us, until the moment we are caught up together in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air!

Here are some lines from a poem at my Grandma (Vivienne's) funeral.

Grieve not because the eyes that looked upon you
Shall never see your face on earth again,
Rejoice because they look upon the Saviour
Who gave His life to ransom sinful men.

Weep not because I walk no longer with you,
Remember I am walking streets of gold,
Weep for yourselves that you awhile must tarry
Before the blessed Lord you may behold.

New Song Added

2007-11-27T00:06:00.000-08:00

We have changed the background music to 'Hear The Voice of My Beloved' by Cynthia Clawson. The control for it is on the left side bar. [note: this has since been removed]
This song was sent to me by a dear sister in the Lord, I have enjoyed it so much and wanted to share it with you here. It seems to be a scriptural expression of the heart of our Lord Jesus in His desire to have us with Himself, it also reflects on Christy's desire to be with him.
It was a long journey through the dark valley for us, but as we learned to participate with the Lord in what he was doing with us, there formed a sweetness that was, well, almost romantic, this song adds the music to our experience. I feel the loss of my sweet companion in the journey keenly, but have been filled with joy truly unspeakable. I can now say that I know with Peter what it is to walk on water (walking on water has only one purpose, that is, to get to Jesus). Christy heard the call of her Beloved to come away into His awesome presence, I now hear the same call to walk the rest of the journey leaning on Him more intimately. 'In the multitude of my thoughts within me Thy comforts delight my soul' Psalm 94:19.

In memory of a very kind and lovely Lady

2007-11-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hi, My only encounter with Christy was a brief visit to Vancouver in September 2003 whilst searching for Technician positions in the Vancouver Area. Wayne had more than kindly offered me a room at his house in the basement for the duration of my stay in Vancouver. Priority had recently relocated to their new offices and Wayne and Christy were in the process of wrapping up their house prior to moving on. I always remember my first meeting Christy when I arrived, I wondered how these nice people would invite a complete and utter stranger into their house. They welcomed me with open arms and a very friendly smile. They gave me a key and invited me to come and go as I liked. So later in the day I sloped off to find something for dinner, on return I found that they had prepared a place at their table for me. I don't remember if I ate with them that night but I did enjoy their after dinner treat. They had a slab of very good chocolate which they liked to chip small chunks off.I must admit that over the few days I spent with Wayne and Christy I was made to feel very at ease and we spent long hours talking into the new day to come. Christy was a very good and kind Lady, the family she has left behind are most certainly a tribute to both her and Wayne's influence in both spirit and manner. I am sure that she touched many peoples lives and continues still to do so in all our memories.

My heart felt sympathy and love goes to all her nearest and dearest

Kindest regards

Kevin Capper
London UK

The funeral service

2007-11-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

The funeral and burial service for Christy was a memorable occasion, though it was a very emotional and sad time. There was a large turnout and all the chairs were filled with standing room only. Wayne spoke a bittersweet message and there were few dry eyes in the room. It was a tender, sweet, and touching ceremony. Rachel Zaharik beautifully sang "Here Is Love" accompanied by Jeremy and Peter on the cello and guitar. There were many emotional moments: Christy's last words ("I'm going to see Jesus") were played; further on, Wayne picked up his granddaughter Melissa who had fallen asleep on her chair and read the letter that Christy had written to her; and at the end of his speaking, Wayne removed his ring and laid it on Christy's still hands in the casket. There were many tears running down a great number of faces, but it was still more sweet than sad, and especially for those who have hope of seeing this beautiful woman again in glory!
The entire Coleman family wishes to thank all who came, sent flowers, made donations to the SA Rotary Hospice, took part in the funeral or graveside, helped, contributed, volunteered, or otherwise participated to make the event special and memorable and a true tribute to Christy's life. Nearly all who came loved and appreciated Christy, and she loved them sincerely. She would have been overwhelmed, overjoyed, and amazed at the outpouring of love everyone showed. A very clear message went out at the service demonstrating Christy's great desire that there would be those who would come to know her Lord Jesus as a result of her death. If she knew there would be just one soul who came to Christ because of her death, she would have willingly died just for that one person! May her wish come true, if it has not already.

Heart of flowers and photo of Christy as a bride - this is, after all, what she is going to be, part of the bride of Christ!

David and kids remembering Christy

Wayne chose to leave his ring with his beloved Christy. Notice she is wearing (it was her desire)
a little bracelet that her granddaughter Abbie made for her some time ago.

The last earthly goodbyes

The Men in Blue - the Priority team - had the honour of being the
pallbearers.

Click on any of the above photos to view the entire web album from Christy's funeral and also at the cemetery.

From the BC 8's

2007-11-05T21:36:00.000-08:00

November 05, 2007
I met Wayne only a short time ago when he was on the hunt for a car, perhaps an inanimate object to take his mind off of the tragedy in his life, even for a moment or two. We talked frequently on the phone and about Christy's illness.
I never got the opportunity to meet Christy but I could tell that she was always there in Wayne's mind and thoughts. Our meetings were brief as he needed to be with her as much as possible to make her final days here as comfortable as possible.
Celebrate her life with you Wayne, and do not dwell on what you do not have the power to change. Be strong for your sons and their families. She is no longer suffering and has gone to a better place.
Fly with the eagles Christy....
Tom Carter, on behalf of the BC 8's www.wuffer.net

Memorial Card

2007-11-05T15:11:00.001-08:00

This is the Funeral Program/Memorial Card that was handed out at Christy's funeral

From a neighbour back on Heather street

2007-11-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Wayne and family,

Like most men, I find it hard to say or write anything of substance when it comes to expressing feelings about the loss of a friend or loved one. Society seems to frown upon men showing any sign of "weakness", as it were. But after sitting and listening to you at the service and seeing the outpouring of love from you and the reciprocation from all that attended, I feel better equipped to express how I feel about you, your family and Christy.

We met probably ten years ago Wayne; two skinny, middle aged cyclists riding down the road, eyeing each other like dogs circling each other on a street corner, each looking for a sign of weakness in the other. After a suitable test of each others strengths we became casual, but good friends, especially when we discovered we lived not two blocks from one another. About the same time we met, I had been noticing a very lovely woman walking our neighbourhood streets on a daily basis; always with a long flowing dress and a kerchief on her head, walking square shouldered with a grace and lightness of step I had seldom seen before. She was quick with a smile and unafraid to make eye contact with me, a total stranger on the street. I had no idea who she was and was pleasantly surprised to discover she was your wife after one of our rides one day. Our rides morphed into walks with our dogs, Chloe and Mitsy, and exchanges of knowledge and labour (you were always there to help with any and all of my technical problems; I, not so much for you). I was so amazed at how insightful Christy was. She could read the pain on my face as I went through a bad patch with my then teen-aged daughter and offered advice and support which helped me through that period. That was her mission in life and she fulfilled it well. Her smile and countenance were enough to disarm the entire military of any war-mongering nation. It is such a shame we could not have broadcast the serenity of her soul to the whole world and perhaps brought about ever lasting peace. She touched all that met her and left an everlasting impression on people, something that very few in this world are capable of doing.

We lost touch when you moved from our neighbourhood in 2004, partly because we were both so absorbed in our businesses and partly because we were separated by a greater physical distance. When I frist heard the Christy had been diagnosed with cancer, I felt that no mortal disease could ever conquer that woman. She had the strength to overcome anything. And even when I received the news from sources over the past few months, advising me she was slipping nearer to death, I could not help but think that this was impossible. Christy would pull through because she was the miracle woman! No need to worry. Alas, when I received your e-mail last Monday, I freely admit I wept in my office, as I am sure many others did. You were so very lucky to have spent many years next to her Wayne, for she was an angel.

I am pleased you created this blog as it has given many, like myself, the opportunity to express our love for you in a way that is at once contemplative and comfortable. Not all of us can make our feelings known face to face.

with best wishes,
your friend,
Al Clark

From Christy's cousin Calvin Haws

2007-11-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Wayne and Boy's:
I was truly sorry to hear about my cousins Christy's death, but in saying that I know that she has gone to a much better place. Jill and my prayers will be with your family today, although you are joyus that she is with the Lord, it will be a very large loss for you and your family's.
I remember many fine holidays in Whiterock in which we spent with Mary, Christy and Paul. Although I was the youngest, I was always made to feel special by my cousins. Christy always had a warm, caring, fun loving personality and a deep love for our Lord Jesus, and although I have only seen her a couple times since my childhood this did not seem to change. I can see by the pictures on her blog that she was a wonderful wife, mother and grand-mother. Is their a charity that a donation could be given to in memory of her? My family would love to contribute something in memory of her.
Sincerely,
Calvin, Jill, David, Emily and Grace Haws

from Bolivia

2007-11-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

Dear Wayne and family,
We certainly will be praying for you and yours that remain behind for a few brief moments here until that grand day when we will all enter the Father's house. May the Lord stand by you and strengthen you.
Our love from Cochabamba, Bolivia,
Bob and Barb Thonney

From Dad (Walter) With Love

2007-11-02T17:03:00.000-07:00

November 1, 2007

My son Wayne

I have many thoughts coursing through my head, and sleep does seem to escape me.

My thoughts go back to last Lord’s day evening, I was driving home after the Gospel Meeting, and when I got to #4 Road, I had to make a right turn and join you at Christies bedside. It was an amazing time, you holding her left hand and I her right. I recall saying to Christy, “If you can hear my voice, squeeze my hand.” There was no response. It was so difficult to hear and watch her struggled and off and on breathing. I was so relieved to hear that her breathing calmed as she left this scene, to be forever with her Lord the Saviour. I recall on leaving her bedside, leaning close to her ear and saying, “Christy, this is Grampa, I am going to say Goodbye, Goodnight, I will see you in the morning.”

About an hour after leaving, my grandson Jeff, called me to say that “Mom had gone home to be with Jesus.”

Wayne, I pray most fervently, that on Saturday, that the Lord will give you the spiritual strength, to deliver a suitable and compelling message to those whom you know will attend, and have a great lifesaving need.

Dad

Memories from Shannon Walker

2007-11-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Wayne,

Here I sit having just read your blog regarding 'thy beloved' ... and the photo gallery, WOW, Sue Parenteau, Aunt Helen and the 5 generations, your wedding - that must have been in the 'old' meeting room - what memories! You so prove that there is true JOY in the Journey ...

Memories were so flowing as I read ... I remember the day Jeff was born, Karen (Harman) and I came to the hospital to see Christy, (and I believe that was New Years day!) and yes, her Bible was open then too, at Psalms 139, to which she told us -then single- girls, how she now has experienced in a new and awesome way the verse "for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (she enjoyed the verses starting with 'thou hast covered me in my mother's womb' to verse 18) ... many years later (1995) when it was my turn, at the birth of my first born in that hospital room I thought of Christy and turned to Psalms 139 also and wrote that in her baby book : ) In my daughter's room hangs the text you gave us for a wedding gift with Christy's hand writing on the back with her message; you 2 so magnify Christ's love together ... then to find out in your photo gallery that she too is a 'cat' person, the text is a picture of a kitten : ) And now at the end of her life this truly is her verse, for she is and was so 'wonderfully made' even in her bodily weakness. Beautiful.

When I first heard of Christy's cancer, I thought, 'she's a young wife, mother and grandmother, she has a husband, children and grandchildren that adore her, she has soooo much to live for!' To see in this blog, how she, as her life was drawing to a close so willingly surrendered it back to the One who had so blessed her in her life, why? She saw that One at the entrance to glory, her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! "Sir, we would see Jesus". What a living testimony, what an example for us. Beautiful again!

I think I have to go and cry a little now, but reading Christy's life and death I'm not sure if they are tears of joy or sorrow, I think both. I pray for you on Saturday Wayne, I thought of closing this note with "because He lives, I can face tomorrow", then thinking of what lies ahead for you both tomorrow and Sat. I can't help but cry again and bear you up before the throne of grace. As my mother has faced this day more than once, she has proved and testified that He does give strength for the day, He does give songs in the night.

Because He lives, I CAN face tomorrow,

In His everlasting Arms

Shannon (Clark : ) Walker

A letter from Phil Brown, who made Christy's casket

2007-11-01T17:45:00.000-07:00

(written Sept. 30/07)
Christy, I’m sorry I missed your call on my birthday, but I’m so thankful that you were able to take my call in the hospital after your fall. Nancy and I pray for you, and dear Wayne. We will all be Home soon, together in the presence of the Lord Jesus who gave all to redeem us.

It was a privilege and an honour to build your casket. Every inch of this project was done with love for the Lord Jesus, for you and your family and the saints, and for lost souls – with blood, sweat and tears. I built everything myself and did the upholstery as well. I felt very much dependent on the Lord to design and carry out this work. As the painting unfolded under my hands I had a great sense of the Lord’s guidance. I’m so glad yours was my first casket. There was just enough material on the particular roll to cover the interior. I believe the Lord chose that fabric just for you. I was a little discouraged that the work had a handmade, homemade look to it but now I’m thankful that it does, because it was made by me, just for you, from the Lord, in weakness and dependence.

It’s interesting that the casket idea was given to me a year before by a Christian brother who owns a high-end antiques business, but I never got around to actually starting one, as I was greatly discouraged from this vocation by various factors. The idea was still in my heart, and prompted by a Christian football movie Facing The Giants, I told my wife I wouldn’t waste any more time starting an art casket for sale as the Lord seemed to indicate that the door was still open to pursue this vocation of handmade caskets embellished with artwork (Rev, 3:7-8 I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it). Wayne called the next day to order yours. It was an incredible experience to see the Lord’s hand at work in our lives, fitting all the pieces together for His honour and glory.

So many people in my area have been affected by your going Home, seeing the casket in various stages. People would hear about it and call to ask if they could come over and see it. I met a Christian brother on the Internet who had built a casket for a Christian friend and he encouraged me to put it on a woodworking website. Thousands of people have seen it and heard your story, and of your faith in the Lord Jesus. Christian brothers on the woodworking website have also been praying for you.

My neighbours and family members have heard the gospel by seeing the lid with the verse that you chose, Psalm 16:11 In Thy presence is fullness of joy… and the verse I chose, John 14:6 I am the way, the truth and the life… and by hearing your story.

Your going Home is a very precious occasion to the Lord and He is using it mightily and faithfully. I am humbled and thankful that He chose me as His instrument to be a part of His taking you to be with Himself. I sorrow with many tears but I joy in the Lord that you will be with Him, and free from your pain.

Christy, you have been a tremendous blessing to me, as has been your dear husband and family. Great are your rewards. Perhaps I will not get to talk to you again on this side of Heaven, but I will see you up there as God has promised to those that love Him.

Until then, your brother in the Lord Jesus Christ,

Phil Brown

A very touching letter

2007-11-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

My Dear Sweet Sister in Christ, Christy;

You do not know me much just yet. I am the sister of your precious daughter-in-law, Susie. I am so glad that you are now in Heaven with our Lord Jesus! I am so glad you are forever released from your pain and suffering that you endured so patiently here on earth.

Yet, as you already know, I am SO sad and I hurt SO much for Susie, Steve, Abby, Bethany and Melissa as well as ALL of the many, many people who loved you so much and will so miss your presence here! Yet, your absence is just another reminder of how MUCH JOY we all have in store for us in Heaven!

I am so happy for you now that you are in the presence of Our precious Jesus!!! And, you by now have met and I'm sure are spending time with my most Sweet Mom! That fills my heart with joy! Please give my precious Shear a HUGE hug too! I cannot wait until we are all "caught up together".

I cannot wait to reunite with Susie, Steve and family! I love you so much Christy, and it gives me much happiness to know that you are waiting along side my Mom for when Jesus calls us all up to meet together and forever.

Tons of Love,

Joanna

Words of encouragement from the Wilsons

2007-10-31T11:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Wayne and Family:

"When pressed with burdens and trouble too complicated to put into words and too mysterious to tell or understand, how sweet it is to fall back into His blessed arms, and just sob out the sorrow that we cannot speak!" selected

"Likewise also the Spirit helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God." Romans 8:26,27.

It is a groan whose undertone is praise and unutterable joy because we know our Lord does all things well.

"I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." John 14:18

Thinking of, praying for, and trusting you to Him at this time of joy and sorrow mingling,

Ed and Cathie Wilson

Notice of Funeral

2007-10-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

The funeral/memorial service for Christy Coleman will be held at the meeting room at 8020 No. 5 Road in Richmond, BC on Saturday, November 3rd at 11:00 am.

If any wish to view her body it will be available for viewing at the above address anytime after 9:30 am on Saturday prior to the service.

All are welcome to stay for visiting and a lunch following the ceremony. At 2:30 there will be a procession leaving the meeting room for the interment at Sunnyside Lawn Cemetery:

14850 28th Ave.
Surrey, BC

Our sincere thanks to all for their support and prayers,

The Coleman Family

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Christy’s memory to the Salvation Army Rotary Hospice House at:

6460 Number 4 Road,

Richmond, BC, V6Y 2S9

604-207-1212 http://sarotaryhospice.ca

Wayne and Christy felt that this Hospice where Christy spent her last days was like a quiet refuge in the storm.