Love 4 LaVoie.

Hundreds packed Bourbon Street in Chicago to celebrate the life of Eileen Joyce LaVoie, mother of four and wife to Joe LaVoie, who passed away in March 2015 after a five-month battle with cancer. Joe and Eileen had moved to St. John, Indiana, but their roots are in the parishes of St. Cajetan and Christ the King.

The event raised funds for the LaVoie Children Educational Fund through ticket sales, silent auctions, live auctions, raffles, wheels of fortune, and t-shirts. Baskets upon baskets of items graced the perimeter of the massive banquet hall and bar. Bagpipers, folk music, and rock bands performed as friends rejoiced over Eileen’s remarkable life.

When I approached the ticket table, someone said, “Well, I can tell you’re Eileen Rubey’s sister.” Again, my family ties are written across my nose, perhaps spelled out in faded freckles. Tim and I moved from the neighborhood over twenty years ago, but the spirit of complete connection never fades – thank goodness.

I said to my lifelong friend Shannon, “You could come to Bourbon Street every weekend for an event.” She replied, “It’s true. We could.” The utter commitment to faith and life is apparent in every conversation. Death is never viewed as the end. We know that. But this community takes it a step further – they come together in full force with energy, volunteerism, dancing, and joy. When a family is in need, they step up and serve.

Mrs. LaVoie hugged me and told me she was so sorry about Danny. Her wise eyes reflected her deep understanding of the ebb and flow of life. Over and over again, people expressed sympathy about the loss of Dan. At first, I welled up in tears, but as the hours progressed, I adopted their strength and resilient attitude. It’s not over. Eileen LaVoie and Danny are on to bigger and better things. It’s our job to keep the faith here and be thankful for their gifts. Grief stabs us randomly just to make sure we don’t forget, but ultimately, charity, faith, and love prevail.

As I left, I bought t-shirts saying “A Celebration of Eileen – Life, Laughter, Love ” and was struck by the Circle of Life – Eileen LaVoie, my mother, my sister, and our granddaughter – all Eileens, all unique, all beautiful.  As we grieve, we also embrace life and each other.  We cling to the mystery and delight of new life, and we’re filled with hope.     

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