We attended the memorial service this afternoon for Gerry Crane. It was the most moving service I have ever witnessed! We arrived 30 minutes early and the church was already packed. Had to sit on folding chairs behind the last pew. The later arrivals were ushered up to the choir loft behind the altar. We estimated about 700 or more were in attendance. It was quite a cross section of the community- high school students from Byron Center, senior citizens, straight couples with babies, and of course a large gay and lesbian contingent. Gerry was certainly deeply loved by all!

The Rev. William A. Evertsberg gave a very moving eulogy. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. On a lighter note, he told a story about how his wife would be out in the garden and Gerry would drive by and whistle at her. The Reverend's neighbor, a banker named Dave, witnessed one of these episodes and was horrified. "Aren't you going to do something about that?" The Reverend answered, "Dave, don't worry about it. My wife doesn't have the right chromosome for Gerry!"

Rev. Evertsberg later made reference to Gerry's wonderful talent as a Music Director saying, "We don't need Mr. Holland, we have Mr. Crane!" Gerry certainly will be missed by all.