A VERY SPECIAL BROTHER-IN-LAW

On Friday July 8, the Summer's had a surprise early birthday party for Kelly's 70th birthday. Since the whole family were here for the Eames/Maddy reunion, they stayed the week to plan the surprise. It was held at the Redlands Church building since many of the Grand Junction Stake members were invited. The tables were decorated so cute. This one is of Kelly's boots and the hotel/home that Kelly called home in Monticello, Utah. Each table had a memento or picture that represented a part of Kelly's life. They also had tables set up on the side that were filled with keepsakes and mementos too.

When Kelly appeared at 7:OO p.m. the lights were turned on and then we all said "SURPRISE!"
He couldn't believe his eyes with all the people there. Kelly is loved by many people in this valley. He had people that he worked with for years, members of the church and family that had come from Utah there.

Kelly loved going around the Cultural Hall shaking hands and visiting with everyone. Refreshments were served while people mingled. It was a wonderful turnout.

Don and I were excited to be part of this celebration. We love and admire Kelly so much. Don wore his BYU shirt in honor of Kelly because they have made many trips over to Provo, to see football together. Kelly is a die heart fan of the Cougars! This is another part of his personality.

Being the Grand Junction West Stake's President, Kelly is also a very spiritual man that loves the Lord. I love to hear his testimony. Kelly loves his pioneer heritage and it was because of him that we made a couple of trips over to Wyoming to experience the handcart rescue area. That is something that has changed all our lives for the better. We will always be grateful for this.

Kelly is a great father too. Kenny, his only son, greeted and conducted this event and his 5 daughters and Kenny's wife Johanna topped off the celebration with their original song and dance routine about their Dad's life. It was so cute and so funny. They are very talented and clever girls.

Kelly has always been a very special man and I'm so glad I can call him my brother!!