Fairfax cemetery is outstanding in portraying the personalities of the folks in that area. None of the markers are neglected and so many have outstanding

care. The love these strong descendants of a pioneering ranching community had for their own is easy to see. One could almost visualize a family member lingering over a marker before leaving large, beautiful arrangements of flowers.

We gathered in a pavilion under a dark sky heavy with clouds on October 15, 2009. Harold Gamble and his wife Hazel Gamble services were attended by two different ministers at different times on the same day. Hazel died and within hours Harold had a heart attack and went with her.

Standing in a large number were men from the community in sharp Levi jeans, expensive 3x Beaver hats, and leather riding boots. This alone was a story to tell of Harold's standing and work in that area. Their wives were seated and they all had touches of the western influence in their dress. There were expensive leather coats, one coat of a Pendelton look, soft leather looking mocassin like shoes, and other subtle statements telling of their lives. This is a place where there were people, who were not faint or feeble. Their clothing marked them as someone, who was up to the rugged environment, and were determined to survive. The pride in their costume told this.

The minister was kind and short in his words possible due to the fall chill that was on the air. It was obvious he knew Harold well and seemed to remember incidents, when they worked together, with pleasure. He told of the time their truck stalled on a low water bridge with a wall of water coming in their direction. He remembered with a sigh how the men around them came to their aid to push them out and allow them to escape before the flood swept through.

Hazel's minister in the afternoon left a loving tribute to her in his description of her as a person dedicated in devotion to the comfort and care of people. He pointed out, in a subtle way, how she could be a model for all to follow.

Her memory card said, "A lady who loved and was loved by many and who touched lives for their good." I hope you will read about this inspiring lady:

http://www.electricscotland.com/history/america/donna/crafts/crafts11.htm