She greeted us at the door

Bright and beautiful clothes she wore

We could count on a pat or a hug

“This pie is all mine,” Lonnie would say with a smug

Shopping, Vegas, Casinos, we traveled

Watching as Pete’s pockets unraveled

Patience with the cherry pie made with salt

Accepting, praising, and never placing fault

Such artistic talent, beautiful crochet

What beautiful gifts she would make

An adventure staying up all night

Just showed her strength and might

With Lonnie, she went to paint the bandstand

So typical, willing to lend a helping hand

Breakfast on Sundays in the Isle Deli

Hoping that the machines would make us wealthy

Not a driver in the back seat

But let Lonnie know he was side seat

To Silver Sneakers, we would go

At 90, she could do just about any flow

While I traveled, Lonnie and Mother Lu would sneak

To Umberto’s for pizza and Pepsi every week

Going around in Betsy, we would drive

Iowa, Wisconsin, trying to locate we would strive

A listening ear, a generous soul

You made everyone feel whole

So many memories to share

A model of love and care

We will always feel your presence

And hope we live and share your invigorating essence