C.L. was 84 years old. Let me tell you a little story about him. He and my Mother-in-law had dated in 1943 when they were both 17 years old. Things didn't work out for them and they went their separate ways. CL went to the panhandle of Texas and got involved with custom harvesting. In 1951 he married Ludeen McAdams, together they had 8 children, 4 sons and 4 daughters. My mother-in-law stayed here in the area and in 1948 married Henry Tappel, together they had 8 children. 5 girls and 3 boys. CL's wife died in 1995 and my father in law died in 1986. In 1999, CL was back in Missouri and found out that my MIL was a widow. He decided to stop and visit. The rest is history. So at the age of 71 (just the opposite of when they were dating) they were married. And she moved from Missouri to Texas. They had a good 10 1/2 years together later in life. The funeral was the coming together of two large families. 
After the prayer service on Wednesday, the parish prepared a wonderful evening meal. It was held in the parish hall, as no house was big enough for 16 married children and their spouses, 17 grandchildren, 18 step-grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and 18 great step-grandchildren. Plus C. L. was one of 15 children. This picture shows us having a toast to C.L. with his favorite wine, hosted by his children. The funeral was held on Thursday. The church was packed, not only with family, but lots of friends. After the service the parish not only prepared lunch, but invited us back for evening meal. 
Friday night most of the family had headed back home. It was quiet time for my MIL and three of her children who stayed to help her out. The girls all pitched in to do 4 or 5 loads of bedding and towels and to assist her with a wonderful meal. 
However, no one can make pies like her. She made apricot and cherry and, as usual, they were picture perfect and delicious. 
Rest in peace C.L.This is the view they have out their back windows. It's the Cross of the highway at Groom Texas.
