Death date: Jan 31, 2012
Merton Earl Cronkite, 85, of Mooresville, died January 30, 2012 at the Levine Dickson Hospice House. He was born in Oswego, NY on January 23, 1927 to the late Earl and Anna Cronkite. Mert will be remembered as a gentle soul by al Read Obituary
Hi Sandi,
What a gift you were to dad -- listening to his plans to move to North Carolina and even driving him to the airport! I will be forever grateful for everything you did to ensure his safe (and timely!) travel.
I agree with you. His willingness to make changes -- whether to improve his health or to move to a new area after living in one place for 83 years -- will continue to inspire me!
Sue
Hi Caroline,
I will always be grateful for the friendship, support and healing you provided dad. As I told Jodi, I knew we would have "big shoes to fill" when looking for a healing community here in North Carolina.
I know dad was looking forward to a time he could move (and maybe even dance!) without hurting. What freedom that must be after so many years of chronic pain.
Sue
Hi Jodi,
Dad so often talked about you...I know you were his friend as well as healing partner. When he moved to North Carolina, I knew we had a huge challenge to find such loving healers in this area. Thanks for being such "big shoes to fill."
Sue
Hi Melvin and Gail,
Melvin, I remember when you were like a family member. I know both mom and dad really appreciated your help. I sure wish I could have been part of the philosphical discussions you had with dad. When I was younger I knew dad was wise...it wasn't until we spent the last year and a half together that I realized just how wise.
As Nancy and I sorted through old photographs, we found many of the county and state fairs -- it's hard to believe that it was 50 years ago!
Thanks so much for sharing your memories...it warms my heart and helps with the healing process.
Sue
Hi Jeannie and Cody,
Jeannie, you have been in my thoughts so often. As I cared for my dad, I started to better understand all that you did for my mom and the intimate relationship and bond that is created between the caregiver and the patient. Both you and Cody brought love and light into mom and dad's life every day you helped care for mom. I so appreciate everything you both did to support mom and dad.
I have a Cinderella story to tell about Vita. As you remember, Vita was a very protective (and not very social) dog. I was concerned about finding her a loving home. One of my friend's parents (Nancy and Ron) adopted Vita. Vita is now sleeping with them in their king-sized bed, and cuddling with them while watching TV. Nancy and Ron are also talking about taking her boating and swimming on Lake Norman (if Vita's willing!). I think dad may have had a hand in this!
Sue
Hi Carol,
Your note touched my heart. I always admired my dad for being mom's caregiver. However, I didn't understand what that really meant until I became dad's caregiver. I will never know how he did it for several years...his strength and love will always live in my heart.
I currently work in the training department for several supermarket chains. I know how difficult it can be to work in such a fast-paced, low margin industry. Thanks for taking the time to connect with my dad during such a challenging time.
Sue
Hi Jack and Faye,
I had forgotten you had the Allis Chalmers tractor...I still remember driving a tractor at the age of five as dad picked stone before planting the field.
Faye, I will always be so grateful for all you did (above and beyond the duties of a realtor!) to help dad move from the home where he grew up to his new home here in North Carolina. Thank you again for helping him realize his long-held dream!
Sue
Hi Tim,
Just wanted to let you know that dad used his self-hypnosis tapes every night. Even as he required more care as the melanoma spread, I would set up the tape and place the ear buds in his ears. When the covers and tape were "just right," he would say, "That's delicious." I, too, used my tape to help me sleep during this difficult time. Thanks for being such a healing influence in our lives.
Sue
Knowing Mert has enriched my life. What a joy it was to be around him and hear his stories. His positive attitude and willingness to make changes to improve his health, were inspirational. He was loved by many. Such a special man. Blessings to all of his family...his light shines on.
I am a cashier at Price Chopper in Oswego. I had the great privilege to wait on Mr. Conkite on several occasions. He always had his list and was always so pleasant. Talking to him at the time I realized that he was a caregiver for his wife. It was obvious that to him this was an honor not a burden. I am pleased to know that he spent the last few years of his life where he had hoped to. I just wanted his family to know that he made a lasting impression on me just by checking out in my line. He must have been much loved by those who knew him. I pray the family never lets go of the love that this man shared when he was alive. God bless.
