A Time for Everything - Ecclesiates 3:1-8

Michelle Morgenstein

We had been in Lisbon for several days when I got the call. My sister, Michelle, had died following a brief illness which started as pneumonia and then quickly progressed to sepsis. She was only 52 years old. 

My brain wasn't up to it so Dermot found the flights to Cleveland and took me to the airport the next day while he stayed with the camper. Michelle's three daughters (all in their 20's) and partner were in shock and grieving. For one week we talked, cried, reminisced, consoled and made the necessary arrangements. The date for the memorial service had been set for the Sunday after my flight back. Though I was sorry to miss it, there were other family members arriving to support the family. Thoughts and prayers are very much appreciated. 

Michelle Morgenstein Obituary

I struggled with the decision of whether or not to share this on our blog. When people experience a loss, many ask if there is anything they can do to help. Often there's nothing to be done but I'd like to ask a special favor. Please consider being vaccinated against pneumonia. Both my father and sister died of health problems that started as pneumonia. Maybe you think that only older people should get that vaccination. They should, but if you're over 19 and have a condition that weakens your immune system, please discuss it with your doctor. I enjoy good health but got the vaccination when my doctor recommended it. Insurance paid for it, but even if your insurance doesn't pay for it, this vaccination could save your life. I want you to have long, healthy and happy lives. 

Here's a memory I'd like to share with you of growing up with my sweet, charming sister:

Michelle loved to make people laugh. One day when she was about 10 and I was 14, some of my friends and I started down the hallway towards my room. I looked up and gasped. There were several pairs of my underwear hanging from the light fixture on the ceiling. I was mortified in the way that only a teenager can be, but everyone else was in stitches. They were so high up I couldn't have retrieved them even if I had tried jumping - which made my predicament even funnier.

Michelle explained through fits of laughter that she had braced her hands and feet against opposite sides of the hall to climb up with my underwear clenched between her teeth to hang them there.

Throughout our lives we've confided in each other, argued, laughed and cried together. She rocked my babies in her arms and I rocked hers'. We had a bond that can't be broken. I loved her very much and still can't quite bring myself to believe she's gone. Rest in peace sweet sister.