It is with some sadness that many of you will learn of Howie Hall's death on Saturday evening. Howie was very recently diagnosed with advanced stage intestinal cancer. From diagnosis to his death was a matter of weeks. I had the privilege of visiting with Howie and Myrna a week ago and Howie spoke movingly of his life, his loves, and his feelings about his imminent death. 

A man of medical science all his life, Howie epitomized that humanitarian spirit of compassionate commitment to the service of others that characterizes so many Episcopalians of his generation. Of matters of faith-in and relationship-with God, he admitted to some uncertainties. He spoke of some of his life regrets. Yet, after talking with him, together with his wife Myrna and his eldest daughter Margaret, it was clear to me that he was at peace and joyfully eager to embrace what lay ahead of him.

The source of his peace lay in the knowledge of a life, well lived; of relationships, well loved; and a readiness to follow his imagination into the dawning awareness of that promise of completion, we call God.  

Myrna reports that he made a 'good death', conscious of her loving and prayerful presence to the last, and ready to embrace the biological process that has now liberated him into the fullness of God. Our prayers are with his wife Myrna and their children. 

Howie's funeral Eucharist will be celebrated on Thursday, October 30th at 11AM in St. Martin's Church followed by a joyous celebration of his life at The Agawam Hunt.
 

Mark+