Memories of Steve

We have lost a dear friend this year, my brother-in-law, Steve DeBoer.  Married to Arlene in June 1970, I had known him since my freshman year in high school --although since he was my best friend's brother, I actually "knew about him" since 7th grade!  Arlene was a bit smitten with this young teen-ager in high school!  I remember their Jr./Sr. Prom, their attendance at the Honor Banquet together, their decision to head to Michigan State together.  We hung out all together with a bigger group during my last years of high school; at the lake, at the county fair, at school functions.  I clearly remember the late night when Arlene came  home from her date and wanted to turn on the light in our room, and I grumpily complained--but when she showed me that dazzling diamond, my attitude quickly improved!  A wedding to her high school sweetheart was planned.  In those early years, Steve appeared quiet and a bit bashful, but as the years progressed and he became more comfortable in the noisy Knight family--his wit, competitive spirit and rapid "zingers" became commonplace as we gathered together.

When both Bill and Andy were welcomed into the family, those three became the tight knit "outlaw brothers".  It became quite a competition for them to "earn" brownie points with Maynard & Merle, and Steve was usually in the lead because he & Arlene seemed to come up with some of the best gift ideas for them:  an old time record player/cd/cassette tape combination that Mom had long desired; patio furniture; a riding tractor for Dad---who can keep up with that?  The three became golf buddies, traveling companions and friends. We all did life together.

God gifted Steve with intelligence, integrity and the ability to practically apply his faith in countless  situations.  We were the grateful recipients of his generosity in many ways.  Two wonderful trips out West in their motor home, only 9 (Steve, Arlene, Bill, Marlita -- and 5 kids) traveling together!!  The last trip we took to Hawaii together was such a gift from him...a memory to cherish as Arlene went to heaven several weeks later.  Those months following were difficult, but I felt drawn to stop often at the house, listen, cry and pray for this heartbroken man.  He amazingly approached his grief as he did other areas in his life:  with as many tools as he could gather (counseling, books, faith), and a conscientious plan to heal.

With surprise and delight, we watched God faithfully provide a new wife for him to love and cherish.  Pam was a unique gift from God for him.  She was welcomed into the Knight clan, and we watched them living a new life together.

In these months following his death, my heart has grieved- -not only for him, but for all the losses that have gone before:  for Arlene, for Amy,  for the unique family-friend relationships that were forged over these many years....and for the pain in knowing that those together times are over.

Steve, enjoy your new forever life as you celebrate your first heavenly birthday together with Jesus.