The casket spray I designed and arranged

Mom Barneck-The rest of the story

On Thursday July 2 Dave's mom Norma Barneck passed away. Almost everyone in the family was there to say goodbye to our matriarch. It was difficult as mom was concious (although she could not speak due to the trach) and she was trying to mouth words to us. She told Kenzie she loved her, she told Dave she didn't want to go etc...the longer the goodbye's took, the more agitated she became. I don't know if she was frightened, in pain or what, maybe a little of both. We told the nurse we were ready and she came in and administered morphine to mom to calm her down and help her to sleep. Those that did not want to watch her die left the hospital and a few of us stayed on until the end. The equipment that was keeping mom alive was disconnected and turned off. She breathed on her own for about an hour. Her breathing just graudally slowed down until it stopped and she was gone. It was peaceful. At one point she mouthed what we think was "ma ma". We know the veil is so very thin during times like this and I have no doubt that her loved ones were there to greet her and welcome her home.

Mom's funeral was planned for Saturday July 11 to allow for family members to get to Utah. Early on Friday morning Robyn, Jolene and I gathered at the mortuary to dress mom in her temple clothes. I had never participated in this before and it was actually really nice to be able to do this for her. Friday evening the viewing was held at Lindquist Mortuary in Layton. I can't believe how many wonderful people came to pay their respects. There were so many old friends and former preschool students, lots of extended family members etc...it was so nice to be there as a family. Mom looked wonderful. I know that doesn't seem possible, but she had been sick and in such pain for so long that it was nice to see the peaceful look on her face.
The funeral was held the next day at the Stake Center and again, it was such a tribute to her at the amount of people turned out. The funeral was lovely with every one of the six children participating. It was a beautiful sunny day as we rode in the limo to the cemetery to dedicate the grave. Many relatives were present and we all enjoyed spending more time together afterwards at the church for lunch.

It's hard to imagine that she is really gone. She was so vital until six weeks ago. We will sure miss mom with all of her quirky ways. We know she loved us all unconditionally and will continue to watch over us from the other side.