Marty's mother passed away August 21, 2008

Barbara Jean Steen, Marty's mom, died yesterday of a heart attack. Marty was at work yesterday when his dad called, very upset , and said his mom had a heart attack and was being transported to the hospital. Marty was really upset and hurried home to tell me. We called the family and after a while discovered that they had not been able to revive her. It was a terrible shock to Marty and his whole family. Even though she has suffered with emphysema for years I think we just thought she would be around forever.
Marty, Sage and I booked a flight out for today but it was cancelled. Aftera lot of phone calls Marty left at 6pm from St Louis. Sage and I have a flight out tomorrow at 3:45. We drove Marty to the airport and are staying with Kim Matthews, Amanda's mom, cousin Amy. She has a beautiful home about 30 miles from the airport. Amy, her husband and 3 children have been wonderful and accommodating. We have been made to feel right at home. It's been a hard day and we are very anxious to get to Salt Lake to see Grandpa and the family.
I still cant believe she is gone. It just doesn't seem real. We love Barbara so much and it is hard to imagine not having her around. I am glad we have spent the time with her that we have. She was loved and appreciated and she will be sorely missed.