Monday, July 13, 2020
Dear extended family and friends,
I'm deeply saddened by the news of Trudy's passing.
Trudy was a dear friend to me and an important part of my life.
About 30 years ago she volunteered to help new immigrants learning English. My dear Grandma connected with Trudy and when Trudy heard I'm arriving in the states, she immediately offered to work with me too. Trudy not only got me to join an English class taught by her neighbor, she even helped edit my papers- and that was hard work because my English was bad. Trudy was a friend, teacher and also a matchmaker, during one of our meetings she introduced me to my future loving husband.
Three girls later Trudy and Walt's home in Pompey Hollow became my recharge place. Whenever I came over, Trudy and I talked for a long time, sometimes took a walk, sat in the garden, picked apples. I remember Trudy spoke so proudly of her successful kids and grandchildren, and used to roll her eyes smiling when Walt told his funny jokes. Trudy always made me feel important, loved, and appreciated, a great woman to know when you are a long way away from your family. Whenever I would have family members visit from back home I would bring them to meet Trudy and Walt.
I am guilty of letting life take over and not visiting enough in the past few years. I admire Walt for keeping in positive spirits and taking care of Trudy. On my last visit in October, I got to see Trudy looking good and happy sitting in her chair. Walt and I told Trudy and her caregiver the story of our life long friendship. I got to hold Trudy’s hand and tell her how proud she should be of me for receiving a Master's degree that fall. It all started with her believing in me. She was my teacher, friend, matchmaker, and Angel.
Our deepest sympathies to Walt and family,
Michal, Eric, Shellie Danielle and Maytal Downie
