Back in the "old days" of Willard Elementary School in York, Nebraska, I had the privilege of working and knowing wonderful kids, parents and on occasion grandparents. The Lauderbaughs were such a family. Richard and Chris were great support for Susan and Michael. When you see support from parents like Susan and Michael had; it was easy to understand why they did well in school.
The support extended further than their parents. Lewis and Sylvia were supportive of their grandchildren. They attended school programs, award ceremonies and activities. This was done after they began the 3 AM workday. Observing Sylvia and Lewis modeling life, it was very clear where Richard and Chris learned parenting and work skills. At the bottom of it all, love was extended to family and support of the community.
The community appreciated Sylvia and her story enough to include her life story on the Wessels Living History Farm website. Excerpts from her interview are included in the 1940s section of the resource. <https://livinghistoryfarm.org/farminginthe40s/farm-life/normal-life-war-brides/> <https://livinghistoryfarm.org/farminginthe40s/farminginthe1940s.html> Follow the links to learn more from Sylvia as she recounts her life.
Knowing Sylvia and her family, Lewis, Richard, Chris, Susan and Michael was pleasure. I wish them God's peace as they celebrate memories of their loving mother/grandmother.
Shalom Aleichem,
woody ziegler
