Monday, October 26, 2009

Laura Ann Oviatt, 1986 - 2009

I am so very heartbroken to lose Laura, but am so glad that she is no longer suffering. Our emotions are on a roller coaster ride as we try to come to grips with the reality that Laura is gone.

Thank God for the support of family, friends, and co-workers who helped us through this very difficult time. I was so proud of the family remarks at Laura's memorial service and received many, many comments from people who attended and were touched very deeply. I think we helped people understand just how much Laura meant to others and just how special she was.

Several people made it a point to tell me how Laura had helped someone in their family. One woman currently serving a mission emailed us that it was only due to Laura's influence that she made the decisions that led to her missionary service. A parent mentioned how Laura had been the only one to reach out to her daughter at girls' camp several years ago. Another friend told how Laura befriended her when she moved to this area and made a tremendous difference in her life. This is the Laura I knew. This is the Laura I will remember.

Today we ran into Mrs. Barnes, a teacher at Johnston High School who taught some of our children to speak Spanish. Mrs. Barnes was stunned to learn of Laura's death. She certainly knows what we are experiencing, having lost her son in a tragic automobile accident a few years ago. Mrs. Barnes asked about all our children and sent her fond greetings.

This afternoon Brenda and I picked up Laura's remains from the funeral home. Part of the emptiness in our hearts is filled now that Laura is home with us again. Here is an image of the urn containing Laura's remains. This is a temporary resting place. For in the resurrection Laura will rise again, whole and complete, perfected through the atoning sacrifice of the Savior. We look forward to that day and give thanks to the Lord who makes this hope possible. Until then, Rest In Peace, Laura.



6 comments:

Shauna said...

Hi this is Shauna, Laura's room mate for two years, and was extremely at a loss for words for Laura's passing. She was an incredible person who greatly changed my life. Her amazing talent at singing often calmed my anxiety and she would always sing for me when I needed it. Her wisdom was always available to me and was always a huge help. I definitely have felt as I have prayed for comfort with her passing that she was welcomed with open arms into the arms she needed the most her Father in Heaven. I am comforted in knowing that she is now relieved and no longer hurting. I watched her try for so long to get better, she gave it everything she had. Laura you will be missed more than you could ever imagine. You will forever be a part of me.

Dee Oviatt said...

Hi, Shauna. Thanks for your comforting comments. You are so kind. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to talk. Dee and Brenda, Laura's parents.

S.Faux said...

Dee:

Your message brings tears to my eyes.

The memorial service was one of the most inspiring that I have ever attended. Your son and daughters who spoke could not have been more impressive.

I know there will always be a gap in your life that only Laura could fill, but I also know your deep gospel understanding (which is FAR better than most) will bring a hope and confidence in the eternity. As much as we love our children, God loves them infinitely more. Laura is now in comfort. Thanks so much for sharing.

Shan @ Design Gal said...

I am Barry Cann's sister, and a friend of Laura. I just found out about her death and I am so sorry. Many years ago, when she and Barry were dating, my cat died. I'm sure some people thought it was silly to be so upset over losing a pet, but I was heartbroken. Later that day a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Laura was delivered for me. She was so thoughtful to think of me during that time. I will always remember her sweet, bright smile and her Christ-like personality.

I hope you can find some peace during this difficult time. :)

Kelli M. Stowers said...

I was at Laura's memorial service tonight in Provo. I left without grabbing the paper with the blog address for posting memories of Laura. I was hoping you might be able to point me in the right direction. I was Laura's neighbor at Sparks and have many, many wonderful memories of the time we were able to spend together while she was here which I would like to share. Thanks. - Kelli Stowers

Unknown said...

Dee, Mel and I are driving through Urbandale today. I was online trying to locate you and found your blogspot. We are so sorry to hear of your loss, but we have hope in the resurrection as you do. We are headed to Toronto, Canada to serve a mission there as LDS Employment Resource Center managers. We think of you and your family often.