Good-Bye Mrs.
My Mother in Law, Muriel Durst
By Erwin Dauphin

To say you've been an inspiration - Is an understatement indeed
You've been a wise role model - Truly a rare, rare breed
Raised by your grandparents - In a life some would call hard
You knew the meaning of values - And you were held in high regard!!

Always ready to listen - Offering no opinion unless asked
A cheerful and willing worker - No matter how hard the task
You met the love of your life - And shared your dreams with the Mr.
You and Walter had fun - Raising Phil, and Marcia his older sister!!

You taught your kids good values - To work hard and not complain
There were many folks who had less - While experiencing much more pain
You were proud of them both - And they were proud of you
You always put them first - And Marcia and Philip knew!!

Your granddaughter Sara - In your heart had a very special place
And when she came around - It would light up her grandparent's face
You and the Mr. had stories - About Sara, you loved to tell
And Sara was a very good girl - Who returned your love as well!!

When you lost the Mr. - You truly lost a pal
You two were the perfect team - Walter and his special gal
You'd never lived alone before - But you readjusted your life
Still putting your family first - Muriel, the devoted mother and wife!!

You wanted to stay in your home - And live on familiar ground
And by gosh you did it - Being both, stubborn and profound
Through broken hips and strokes - A cough that wouldn't go away
No matter how hard it seemed - You got up and began each day!!

We'd look at each other and sigh - How does Mom keep going
You'd smile at us and say - "I've got this quilt that I am sewing"
You loved God and your church - Working every Xmas Dinner
Doing the best you could each year - A little shorter and a little thinner!!

You loved your Sons of Norway - Your many friends gave you a ride
You twice waved at the King - A little shy but full of pride
And in your final hours - Knowing you were passing on
You still shared your wisdom - And did till you were gone!!

You told us not to cry - This is something I must go through
You even kept your sense of humor - While giving instructions on what to do
One of the last things you said - And you appreciated them all
"I've been so lucky to have good friends - Who would answer my every call!"!