Our dear friend, Brantley Gubler passed away Friday, July 3rd. It came as such a shock...he's just too young to go. He had pains and didn't feel good for a while and finally went to the doctor for some tests. When he went back for the results the doctor sent him by ambulance to emergency because his white blood cell count was so low they couldn't believe he was still walking around. They learned he had leukemia and because those white cells were fighting that so hard, his immune system was down and he contracted pneumonia and then finally H1N1 (swine flu). He just couldn't get better and those things got the best of him and he passed away about a week later. He had such a love for life. He was one of those people who was part of my "comfort zone." Every Sunday in church I sit there and look around to make sure the "regulars" are in their seats and then I know all is well. It has been difficult for me to look where I expect him to be and he's not there anymore. Sometimes it's still unbelievable. His dear wife Angel is so strong. She understands the Plan of Salvation and knows that they will be together again. I get emotional when I see her get emotional. They had such a beautiful relationship. From the first time we met them, they have treated each other with love and respect and that is beautiful to me. Brantley had a beautiful voice and one of my favorite things was when he dressed up like Joseph Smith and sang "A Poor Wayfaring Man." I love that he loved being a cowboy because my husband is a cowboy and they had a lot in common because of that. One year they came to the ranch in Star Valley with us. Brantley even got to go on a cattle drive! I know he had a great time; we all did! He was a repelling machine! He taught the youth at Girls' Camp each year how to repel and he was a great camper. Aaron is a good friend with their son Brantly Jr. (BJ as they call him) I have been impressed with Aaron's sympathy towards his friend BJ. It softens my heart. Brantley's death came at a time when there were many things going on in their lives...just during that time Brantley Jr. turned 16 and advanced to the office of a Priest, his daughter Kelsey had received her mission call and went through the temple and his funeral was during Girls' Camp. I know his Spirit was present during all those events! He was a true friend and a loving man and I loved just having him around. We will miss him sooo much! I hope his family will feel of our love and concern for them. :)
