Bevie and Me

A story by one of Bev's childhood friends

Bevie and I first met the summer between 6th and 7th grade at Lake Louise, our Baptist church camp in Northern Michigan. We had a marvelous time at camp -- doing crafts, Bible study, archery, swimming. Bevie's brother, Ron, was in the boys' camp on the other side of the lodge, and I kind of liked him.

I was from Battle Creek, but I went to Adrian to  visit Bevie many times -- and to their cottage on Evan's Lake. One New Year's I went to a formal dance with Bevie's family. Ron was my date. I wore a black formal my mother made. I ended up having to stay extra days because of an ice storm, but of course we didn't care. Ever try tobogganing down a large hill of sheer ice?

For several years, we met at the yearly Baptist Church convention, where we would stay at the homes of other kids in the church.

Bevie went to Purdue University, and I went to Western Michigan, but for one semester our junior year, Bevie came to Western Michigan, and we were roommates.

When Bevie married Art, I was pregnant with my second child and my doctor said I couldn't travel. We were all terribly disappointed, but Bevie and Art came up for a weekend visit later and I fixed a big turkey.

I didn't see much of Bevie after she and Art moved to California, but we always kept in touch with letters and phone calls. She sent me beautiful postcards from all the foreign countries she visited. The last time I talked with her was March 6, 2005. I will miss Bevie greatly, but I know her soul is with the Lord.

Ertie Allen Replogle