REFLECTION:  MY SWEET MOM
I retired in June from a job I loved but not without reservation. My career was satisfying, the routine of daily life was comfortable and now my future would become a little uncertain. I made a list of the pros and cons of retirement. On the top of my plus list was being able to spend more time with my mom, who lives in the St. Louis area. Over the last two or three years, dementia and her care needs had been increasing.  The decision was made.
Since June, I traveled from the Chicago area to my mom's home every three weeks and stayed for several days. She lived alone but my sister stopped by almost daily to spend time, drive Mom on errands and make sure that she was eating. My visits afforded my sister and Mom's care givers a break and gave me quality, one on one time with her.
In the summer we sat outside while I pulled weeds around the house and she waved to the neighbors. I took her to her favorite restaurants. In the evening, we watched the Hallmark Channel, looked at photographs and enjoyed our evening tea together. When she remembered who I was, we talked about the past and laughed about silly family memories. I told her about my kids and how proud I was of them and their life choices. I thanked her for her support and guidance and told her that her confidence in me drove my success. I helped her ready for the night, kissed her and helped her into bed. I told her I loved her. She was happy to have someone there with her all night and I was grateful to be the one. 
On Sunday, November 12, my mom had a significant stroke. Once again retirement afforded me the freedom to travel down state without concern for other responsibilities. Family, who could, visited and sat with her every day in the hospital watching her slip away. Those who couldn't come called on the phone and we put the device close to mom's ear and let her know she had a visitor'. 
The day before Thanksgiving, with the help of Heartland Hospice we brought my mom home. There was no hope of recovery. My sister's family and I had a full Thanksgiving dinner in Mom's house on the special holiday plates. All the noise and busyness of the day surrounded Mom as did our love as she lay in the hospital bed in the sunny front room. She was happy and content.
She was a strong and fearless warrior in her struggle, not wanting to leave us all. She was, as always, concerned for her children and I assured her that I would watch over my siblings and their families. I prayed that she was not in pain. I held her hand and hoped she wasn't very frightened. I told her that I wasn't leaving and would stay by her side. I told her I loved her.
On Saturday, November 25, at 1:30 in the morning my mom took her last breath. 
Loretta Marie Skrabacz (1924-2017)

Margo / Margaret Ann Skrabacz-Quaintance

My condolences on the loss of your mom / grandmom.  The Obituary was sent to me from a friend in your area.  As a Skrabacz whose family spent some years in East St Louis I would like to know if we are related.  You can contact me at pabacz@gmail.com. My family came from Tarnow, Poland. 
Carl F. Skrabacz

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Ron, 

So sorry to see that your mom passed away. She lived a long life, be happy that you had her this long. Blessing's to you and your family. 

Elaine Neckermann

Ed, my condolences to you and your family on your loss.

Ron, 

So sorry to read about your mother's passing. I remember her well. You hang in there.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Loretta Marie Heilig Skrabacz

16 mai 1924 – 25 novembre 2017

Valhalla-Gaerdner-Holten Funeral Home & Valhalla Gardens

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