Higley Family Thanks
Dear Editor: Since the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather Roger Dewitt Higley on April 5, our family has been overwhelmed by the love and support of this wonderful community. Our heartfelt thanks go out to so many who were there for us both at a moment’s notice, day after difficult day, and onward.
We were amazed by the immediate response of the Sitka Fire Department, EMTs and Sitka Police Department. They were at the door so quickly, and came in ready to do whatever was necessary to see that Roger was cared for in the best possible way. “Thank you” does not seem adequate, our appreciation runs so deep, and we are forever grateful.
As painful as it was to have to notify the funeral home that they are needed at our residence, it is beyond comforting to see Trudy from Prewitt’s walk through the door. Trudy is calm, comforting, kind, professional, and an angel walking on earth. Sitkans are so fortunate she is here to help us at the most difficult times of our lives. Thank you, Trudy.
Many of our friends came and were so helpful and comforting. Much love and special thanks to Gordie and Eileen Harang, Roger and Mary Hames, Lloyd and Vicki Swanson, Trevor Harang and Paul Haavig for being there and doing whatever was needed. We appreciate you all so much. Also, many thanks for all the loving cards, letters, visits, flowers, food, and most importantly, prayer! Each expression of sympathy helped our hearts feel lighter. Roger was so loved, and it was heart-warming and healing to hear all the kind words about him.
Roger’s graveside service at Sitka National Cemetery was very special, solemn, and honored Roger and his love of our country in a very powerful way. He was very proud of his service in the U.S. Coast Guard. Having the U.S. Coast Guard colorguard there to present the flag to Ce, and a fine bugler to play ‘‘Taps’’ was touching and inspirational. It meant the world to our family and would have made Roger so pleased and proud. We are grateful to Pastor Bennie Grace Nabua for officiating the service, Andrew Hames for singing Roger’s favorite hymn, “How Great Thou Art,” and Jeremy DeTemple at the National Cemetery for his compassionate service.
A special time of remembrance was had at Harrigan Centennial Hall following the graveside service. Much gratitude goes to Edith Johnson and her efficient crew for preparing all of Roger’s favorite lunch foods; to Lloyd and Vicki Swanson and Nicki McArthur for the beautiful photo collages and memory table; to Marcia Hirai for hosting the guest table and attending to details; to Zuill Bailey for the moving cello tribute to Roger; and to the staff at HCH for seeing our every need was met.
In closing, our hearts are full, our souls are comforted, and we are more thankful than ever for living in Sitka, and to be surrounded by such a caring community.
With gratitude and love,
Ce Higley,
Stanley and Maybelle Filler,
Jim and Stephanie Charlesworth,
Russell and Pamela Higley
