Dad (Bert DeVere 1952-1990),

Here’s what you missed since you been gone; I graduated high school, went into the Coast Guard., and received several awards including “Junior Enlisted of the Year” in 1994. Lived in Hawaii and surfed and became a Padi Divemaster. Was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2002 and survived a near fatal accident which left me partially paralyzed, in 2005. 20 minutes before my accident, I turned my life over to Jesus Christ. I know Jesus spared my life for a reason.

 After, I moved back from Hawaii. I got familiar with the local Chumash traditions, Married a beautiful woman in a traditional way by the elders. My mom said she wishes you could have been there to see it. Our anniversary date is on father’s day. So I know you have been there to see it go by each year. There is so much more I want to tell you, but I know you have been there through it all. I am comforted by the thought of being with you in the afterlife. I wish you could have been there physically and tell me you’re proud of me and a good son. I miss you very much!