Our cousin Darlene (Prothe) Larson passed on May 20, 2026. Following is a note I sent to her family.

I’m sad to hear of your mother’s passing.

She and your father were a joy to visit, every time. While we visited Elsie and Erwin’s home many times, I think your mother was out on her own before “I was conscious.” I do remember your Aunt Janice around the house (a little). I think she was always going out on a “date,” which I did not understand at the time. Your Uncle Loren (Whitey) showed me his crystal radio. That may have helped me becoming an engineer. He was also my babysitter for a while. My father was a “handyman” for both your uncles. I learned (had to) how to paint, wallpaper (never again), and fix stuff at your uncles' homes.

I remember one evening when leaving your grandparents home, I looked at a Minden family picture. I pointed out that my father had long hair, too. It was the 1960s and long hair was in style and my father gave me grief. After the observation, I never heard another word. My father played softball with your Uncle Milford on the Old Savior’s team. Your Uncle Milford reminded me, he was the pitcher.

A few times my father would drop me off early in the morning, we’re talking 5:00 AM, with your grandparents. He was a mail carrier in the area around the Bell Street house. I got to nap a little more. He would stop by about 8:00 AM and I would walk his route with him. It included an electronics store on Main. When we delivered mail to the store, I was in engineering heaven.

Your grandmother did not drive, at least in Missouri. Sometimes when visiting, your grandfather would take your grandmother to the country club where she was a waitress. Later, he would pick her up. But, when your grandfather passed, she learned to drive.

We are sad in our grief of a parent passing. It is the hardest event we encounter. Memories and stories help fill in the void. May you and your family recall and share memories of your parents and your growing up.

Take care,

— G. Minden —  (Ralph)