So much to say about such a special woman, who I knew first as Mrs. Beyer, and then the privilege of using the term of endearment, mom. She was cut from special fabric not woven any longer and tradition not understood. Stoic and always hard-working. The many years of hard work ultimately provided the opportunity for great indulgences, yet I always marveled at how modest and conservative she was, but at the same time was generous with her children and moreover with the grandchildren. Thoughtful, contemplative, and clever with the sweet look of a Norman Rockwell grandmother serving Thanksgiving turkey. But if someone mistakenly thought she was a soft target and easily jousted with… They would consider themselves blessed to have left the room thoroughly thrust through with only her lance… and not theirs also. Earning her the moniker of "the bear", which I also enjoyed the privilege of teasing her without getting a good smack. The best memories of "mom", were early mornings at Long Beach Island eating her famous breakfast casserole and sharing morning coffee conversation. Or in the kitchen at Fort Lee eating all kinds of fun stuff late into the night, and being truly treated to her laugh and smiles! I will always be fond of those memories with Patty, Emil, and the Beyer family.