Inez Marston Wildemuth

I'm sure that each child sees a parent through different eyes and that those eyes change with time. As a child, I remember my mother, Inez M. Wildemuth, as always being there when I needed her. She was there to instill my desire to learn, to watch and encourage me in my endeavors, and most importantly to listen, understand and guide me when I needed a shoulder on which to lean.

As an adult, my view of my mother has changed somewhat. I still see her as a lifeline, providing support and advice whenever it is requested, but I also appreciate many other qualities she possesses. I marvel at her patience, nonjudgmental nature, and willingness to put others' needs before her own. She often uses these skills in the roll of peacemaker. Her volunteer activities, though sometimes small in nature, make significant contributions to her church and community and enable her to live her life to its fullest. Most of all, she is a wonderful grandmother to my children and I feel fortunate that they know each other so well. In my children's words, "Grandma is important because she is fun. She plays with us. She loves us and we love her."

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Few people have the opportunity to make widely acknowledged contributions to the world as statesman inventor or scientist. Most of us must be content with more modest efforts. My mother, Inez Marston Wildemuth, is one of the latter, yet there are many people who would say "I'm glad she passed my way."

Though she lost both parents during her childhood in the 1930's, she finished high school and worked her way through college, graduating from Iowa State in 1950. I'm certain this time was often difficult. However, she speaks only of the good times of the loving older brothers and of the families who took her in. This ability to see the silver lining in every cloud has remained with her and brightens the lives of all who know her.

It is with much love that I wish to honor Inez Wildemuth, my mother, mentor, and friend. Thank you for teaching me to see beauty in the simple things of life, to look for the good in all people, and to follow my dreams wherever they may lead. Most of all, thank you for letting go so that I may seek my own path through this world knowing that I have your full support, encouragement, and love.

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Some women achieve greatness by teaching knowledge, enlightening students to the riches hidden in words and pictures. Inez Wildemuth has achieved greatness by teaching what can't be learned from a book: love and respect ... kindness and generosity. She has taught many people through the years, but especially her children. We've learned how to give love unselfishly and how to raise and support our own children. We've learned from her actions, from late night talks, and long-distance calls. Like all great teachers, the tentacles of her wisdom multiply and spread as those she has touched touch others. And as I hold my son in my arms, I pray that I can be as good a teacher as she, passing on her special gift to another generation.

7/1/96