Dear Russ and Rachel, We never met, but I feel like I know you. I can't start to imagine how you are feeling and existing right now, but I hope that your own memories of Ileana and all the beautiful expressions of care and concern and love that her friends have left here, help you through this terrible time. On the few occasions I spoke with Ileana over the past several years she always lit up when she told me about the two of you. She loved you so much. God bless you both, I know you will draw strength from each other and from Ileana's memory. You will always be in my prayers. Pete

Dearest Ileana, Many, many moons ago we found each other, and then we lost each other. Through all the intervening years, you were often in my thoughts and my one wish for you was for you to be happy. Then several years ago, we found each other again! What a day. And as soon as I heard your stories of Russ, and Rachel, and your successful career, I knew my prayers had been answered and you were very, very happy! Although we have only talked on the phone a few times and exchanged a couple of dozen e-mails, knowing you were doing what you loved to do, and had a wonderful family made my own life much more complete. And now we have lost each other again. I was lucky that your friend Tina, at BWW, was watching your e-mails and answered my Easter hello to you with the saddest news of all. What a tough job for her. Through her, I found this beautiful memorial and have been deeply touched by sharing the things your friends and family have written to you. Since I found out you traveled so much for work, I got into the habit of wishing you a safe journey whenever a plane flew over. Now, I guess, I will think of you at night, when I always go out to look at the stars to say hello to those folks who are now with God. I will always send a special hello to you. So, my dearest friend, I will miss you very much until that time when we find each other again! Pete

My deepest sympathy on the passing of the beautiful, vivacious and effervescent Ileana. I knew her from birth, lived in the same house as Mom and Gram. Many years later, worked in the Salve Regina College Dean's Office. Illeana was a nursing student and visited often. She came to the door, called out; "Hi everyone," and made the office come alive. Immediately always came to my desk for a hug and a kiss. "Hi Mrs. G or Purple Lady," then to person she was seeking. What a bright light in a somber office! I cried as I read her obit- to know her was to love her, and that is what I did. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time in your lives. Marion Galvin, Newport, RI USA