Observations on Gerry Crane's Funeral

Well, if a funeral can be wonderful, this one was. In a number of ways. The music, from the opening prelude through a piano solo, violin-piano duet, and a soprano solo of the Lord's Prayer, was outstanding.

Rev Bill Evertsberg delivered a wonderful meditation full of gentle humor that lifted spirits and reminded everyone of the joys of Gerry's life. He addressed Randy as he would any widowed spouse. He addressed the shameful treatment Gerry had received and condemned it. He spoke affirmingly of Gerry's and Randy's relationship and commitment. He spoke indirectly to the 100 or so Byron Center school kids who were there. It was really quite amazing.

But most amazing I think was the size of the crowd. We expected it to be large, but wow! I heard an estimate of 800. The sanctuary was packed. The choir loft was packed. They had portable and folding chairs in every conceivable location. The fire marshall would have had a hissy fit. And it was still standing room only! People standing on the balcony stairs. People standing at the doors and into the narthex.

And not just gay people. Plenty of straight people. Church people. Teachers. PFLAG people. Community people. City Commissioner George Hartwell. The GR Press and the local TV stations with cameras and reporters.

A very few people in Byron Center may be pompously thinking that "the wages of sin is death" applies here. Clearly the larger community did not. If anyone wondered if Gerry's ordeal made an impact on our community, the question was answered at that service. And the message it sent to the kids from BC was in total opposition to the messages they've heard from their own school and church leaders. It must have given them a great deal to ponder.

The receiving line was interminable. Poor Randy!! But people lingered and lingered. A couple of my straight friends who were there said they just felt the need to come, to show support, "to stand up and be counted."

It was an amazing day. I am so very glad I went. It wasn't how I'd planned to spend my frequent flyer miles, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world.