“To laugh often and much;
to win the respect of the intelligent people
and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better
whether by a healthy child, a garden patch,
or a redeemed social condition;
To know that one life has breathed easier
because you lived here.
This is to have succeeded.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Jan Slusmon died on August 22 with his wife, Eileen (Levasseur), by his side.
Jan never failed to express his gratitude for the many rich relationships and experiences he was able to have during his lifetime including the two years he lived with cancer.
He always maintained an attitude of optimism and hope as he continued to do many of the things he loved. He immersed himself in great literature, music, art and history, continued his study of Spanish and amassed a wealth of knowledge due to an incredible memory. He was truly a life-long learner.
Jan was always profoundly peaceful and happy when he could spend days of quiet and solitude in his garden.
During his final months, Jan felt blessed to have been able to spend meaningful time with a community of friends and family which stretched from coast to coast. All will miss his gentle soul, his keen intellect, his terrific sense of humor and his boundless efforts to be of service to others and to his community.
True to his nature, Jan was in awe of the professionalism and generosity of the staff and volunteers who lovingly cared for him at the Vermont Respite House.
We are immensely grateful to the VNA for providing such a high standard of care by people who choose to embrace the terminally ill and their families with dignity, compassion and respect.
Ever present during this past year with selfless and loving support to both Jan and his wife were some amazing friends. A special thank you to Robin, Nora and Deb.
Anyone wishing to honor his memory is encouraged to make a donation to:
The Vermont Respite House c/o The VNA
1110 Prim Road Colchester, VT 05446-6405
There will be no formal service. At a later time, there will be a private family gathering for the interment of his ashes.
This article appears in Aug 24 – Sep 1, 2016.
I was made a better person by knowing Jan. My gratitude and joy at the many wisdom imparting conversations we had is deep. One day at a time, we change ourselves and thereby change our world. Thank you, Jan, for changing mine.
I knew Jan for a brief time, but the peace & love that he brought to intense situations was remarkable. It made quite an impression on me personally for my service work & work life. It was due to his dedication that I took some action to improve my life on another level. Much peace love & prayers to his family at this time. But know I will be forever grateful for knowing him. May we all carry his spirit with us. Much love Elaine H
Jan, thank you