Minnesota Burial and Celebration of Life
February 2
by Chavez Zoo
The third celebration of life was held in Duluth, Minnesota, on May 25th. Over 40 people from nine states joined together to bury Carlos' urn and celebrate his life. We did so graveside to start, sharing memories and favorite bible stories. Those present signed the banner that had been signed by those in Louisiana and California. The banner was rolled up and put into the vault with Carlos' urn, with over 130 signatures and thoughts. The vault had been decorated by Amber and Sarah with favorite bible verses and personal messages inside the lid. The lid's outer edges said Son, Father, Brother, and Husband. The top center had a cross drawn in a diamond. One of Carlos' favorite crosses was placed on the urn inside the vault, and the vault was sealed. After the vault was sealed everyone present placed a rose or flower on top of the vault in the grave, then Amber and Sarah shoveled a shovel of dirt each on top. Other family members shoveled in the dirt as well. Carlos' temporary footstone was placed where the permanent footstone would eventually be and we closed with a prayer.
The celebration of life continued with a meal at a favorite restaurant, Barker's Island Inn & Resort. We had a central part of the restaurant and 43 of us shared a meal in Carlos' honor. Carlos had been to that restaurant more than once for other family events, and we knew he'd have loved the good meal, the people that were present, and the amazing cake our friend bought for all of us to enjoy.
The celebration of life continued with a meal at a favorite restaurant, Barker's Island Inn & Resort. We had a central part of the restaurant and 43 of us shared a meal in Carlos' honor. Carlos had been to that restaurant more than once for other family events, and we knew he'd have loved the good meal, the people that were present, and the amazing cake our friend bought for all of us to enjoy.