Bonnie’s mom, beloved by the children and staff as their “Granny”, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on July 18, 2015. Bonnie brought her many “I love you” cards from the Ama Ghar children, which she was able to read before she died.
An altar for Granny made by the Ama Ghar children and staff.
Granny, who arrived in Nepal in the late 1950’s with her husband and four children, gave birth to Bonnie’s sister Trish in Nepal. Even after the family moved back to the U.S. she never lost her love for the country and the Nepali people. She made four trips to Ama Ghar to spend time with the children, including her last trip to Nepal when she was 90… the children had great fun riding her walker during that visit! Right up until the end she always said, “say hello to all of my friends in Nepal”.
In the Nepali Hindu tradition, a lamp will be lit and prayers given for 13 days of mourning. In Colorado, the family will gather and will have a memorial service on August 11 in Dillon, Colorado, near her mountain home. Her ashes will be placed in the Colorado mountains, Yellowstone Park (her birthplace), and Bouddhanath in Kathmandu.
Bonnie said, “My mother’s parenting of six children with love, patience and support is our role model at Ama Ghar. The incredible, loving Ama Ghar staff and I try to meet the high mark that Granny set every day.”
We are asking all friends and family to donate to the Ama Foundation in lieu of flowers.
Comments 3
Bonnie,
My heart goes out to your family. We lost Mom last July at the age of 97. What pioneers our parents were. They all held a special place in their hearts for Nepal.
A great lady your mother – a great daughter you are Bonnie. You and I have known each other going on 50 years. You are and have always been an honor to your family and to your mother. She must have been so proud of you. I understand the loss. Five years now, I still cry missing my mom’s smile and the twinkle in her eyes as she would poke me in the ribs. My heart and tears are flow with you in the river of life. I send you love and strength. Walk strong sister. I miss you.
Dear Bonnie and family,
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family on the passing of your mother, Laura, whom we remember very well.
When my husband and I arrived in Kathmandu, Sept., 1958, your Mom and Dad opened their hearts and home to us. Their kindness was especially comforting to me as a 21 year old bride of three months who was heart sick for my family and the USA. During our two extended “tours”, we had many memorable meals at the Ellison residence.
We lost touch over the years but always enjoyed reminiscing about our bond with the Agriculture family in Nepal.
(Clarence turned 98, July 23. His mind is excellent but he lost his sight completely the first of this year.)
Please remember us to your other family members and let them know we are thinking of them.
With warmest regards,
Shirley and Clarence Gray
(Kathmandu – 58 – 63)