What better place to remember Anna Marie Bartel Blank? She was a gentle soul who never had a negative word to say about anyone, and her love for her children and their spouses, grandchildren, and great grandchild was her anchor. An avid traveler, she cheered us on in our aspirations to discover the special places around the world. And she enjoyed reminiscing about all the wonderful places she had visited--Australia, Norway, France, and especially her first love, the US. Her knowledge and understanding of history helped her to appreciate her travels even more. She and Ray Sr. have been an inspiration to both Ray and me.
From the first day I met her 36 years ago, Anne made me feel a part of the Blank family. She gave unconditional love and acceptance to us, no matter what seemingly crazy or unconventional things we did or said--and there were more than a few of those over the years. Coming from a background that embraced traditions, I know that this must not have been easy. From the announcement of our hitchhiking trip through Europe, through our one month "engagement", to our "non-standard" wedding, to taking our cats in, and all the rest... Anne handled it with aplomb. If she ever disapproved, we never knew it. All we knew was that she loved us.
And through the years, I learned who she was, and she became part of me as much as I became part of the Blank family, replete with 3 additional sisters and 2 additional brothers. And so, I tell the world here that I will miss you, Anne. We’ll keep traveling, and while we can’t send a postcard, we will especially remember you when we’re on the road.
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