The summer of 1976, my family's farm had been sold and on Independence Day, as my parents and brother moved to Florida, I left Illinois, a dangerous ex, and my familiar job for a new start in Colorado. My grandmother in Colorado Springs and Bill's grandparents in Pueblo had long before decided that we would make a good match and upon my arrival they pretty much threw us together.  Bill's dating strategy centered mainly around rock hunting.  I met Wes & Alice on several Gate's Club rock trips and gravitated to their kindness and approachability.  They were so comfortable to my rural underpinnings that I really felt at home with them.  

It happened that I married Bill at the end of that year and probably could have used a little more time to acclimate to all the other changes I'd seen. Anyway, I was a terribly nervous and flighty wife and got easily overwhelmed by all the new culture, responsibilities and powerfully vibrant city-folk who came with the package.  I was truly blessed that Bill continued going on the rock trips and being involved with the club's board so that I had regular contact with Wes & Alice.  They quietly and solidly talked me out of going over-the-edge numerous times.  The camper and the campfire probably saved my sanity and our early marriage.  It's so hard to speak of Wes without including Alice because they were such a Unit. I miss both of them.

Wes served as a touchstone for me. He and my dad shared so many traits. Physically about the same height, they both possessed a can-do attitude, an “if it costs too much, I'll make it myself; if it doesn't exist, I'll come up with it” creativity, the look-me-in-the-eyes communication, honesty, moral fiber, and family love.  When my own dad was killed, Wes put his arms around me and let me cry. He continued to be that touchstone.

I can't wrap this up without remembering the fun we had at programs for the club (again). Wes had a way with jokes and skits as well.  When Kyrsten was about 4 years old, Wes devised a skit where I was a frog ventriloquist's dummy (not a difficult stretch…) and at the conclusion of the skit, with a little flash powder, I changed into Kyrsten. We performed it a couple of times and Wes enjoyed it at least as much if not more than the audience did.  He was so proud of his grandchildren; he loved showing all of you off.

There was no asking your permission for sharing Wes (and Alice, and Grandma Jones) with me, but thank you just the same. I would grieve, but I know he and Alice are happily together once more. So, I will miss him and I'm just a phone call away if you want to reminisce.

Grandpa, we are sad to no longer get to have you here with us, but we know you are so happy to be reunited with your true love, grandma.  We are so proud of you and we will cherish all our memories we shared.

Grandpa, we will always remember your fondness for "rocks" and your love of the bolo tie!

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Wesley Lorin Auld

28 septiembre, 1924 – 24 diciembre, 2013

Olinger Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery - Chapel Hill

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Wesley Lorin Auld

28 septiembre, 1924 – 24 diciembre, 2013

Olinger Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery - Chapel Hill

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