Over the weekend I attended the funeral of my Aunt Mary Evelyn. This marks the end of an era for me and my family, as her husband -- my Uncle Buddy -- passed away earlier this year.

When I was growing up, Uncle Buddy and Aunt Mary Evelyn were like a second set of parents to me and my brothers. In fact, I always assumed -- without sharing this thought with anyone -- that if my parents were to die while I was a child I would go live with my aunt and uncle.

Unfortunately Aunt Mary Evelyn's last years were darkened by Alzheimer's. The last time I saw her, which was at about this time last year, she did not recognize me. So our family views her passing as a sad event for those of us who are still living, but for her it means the end of her suffering and being reunited with her husband.

Rest in peace, Aunt Mary Evelyn. You made a significant impact on my life, and I will miss you.