Patti and Pam, Your mom's and Zelma Patchin's mentoring and advice during my college years as an Alpha Xi Delta have had a lasting impact on my life. What a gift she was to all of us young college women. She had a special "flair" and love of life. My parents got to know Orlean and Bill and had fun together chaperoning our spring formal. After graduating, I quickly left the state of Oklahoma but on a business trip in 2003, I made a trip to Stillwater just hoping they were still living in their home on Hillcrest that they opened up to us so many, many times. I was so excited to see Orlean and Bill and we had a wonderful visit. I got to hear the old McAlister stories of their courtship. When I asked them what was the key to their long and loving life together, Bill simply stated, "You need to accept that you don't always get your way. It is give and take". When I remarried 10 years ago in Stillwater, I was honored that Orlean and Bill both attended our reception at the Alumni Center. She sat next to my mom - they hadn't seen each other for 33 years and just picked up where they left off. And, true to form, Orlean gave a very nice toast! I also went to Tulsa a few years ago when she and Wanda Van Hook were honored as Panhellenic "women of the year". I had the honor and pleasure of sitting next to Orlean at that luncheon and it was as if she was back in old Gundersen Hall and I had dropped by between classes to get some sage advice from her. I loved you mom and your dad and will treasure my wonderful memories of your caring and fun-loving parents. Indeed, thank you for sharing them with us. They were a special blessing in my life. May your feelings of sadness soon be replaced with all the happy and special memories of your mom, and dad. God bless you and your family.