I don’t know where to begin to thank you for all of your Prayers and heartfelt condolences about the death of my youngest daughter Julie, who passed away suddenly one week ago today at the age of 45.

As you can imagine, the girls and I are still walking around in a fog of disbelief.

But I thought I’d take a deep breath - and a moment - and tell you a little bit about this wonderful Daughter, Sister, Wife and Mother to 9 year old Brayden.

Julie was the shiest of my girls - not surprising when you come into the world with 5 strong, older sisters. She was thoughtful and kind, funny and smart, and fiercely loyal. When Julie loved you - she did so with her whole heart.

She was passionate about Sports - and a terrific athlete in her own right. When she was growing up, she and I used to go outside and toss the football around. And what an arm!! Julie could throw a pass that would sail the length of 2 front lawns... and I used to think… “I finally got my boy! A really pretty one, but a boy!”

She married her College Sweetheart, Brad Johnson in 2002 and then, in 2012 they welcomed their son Brayden. “The Johnson Boys” as she called them were the center of her Universe. The family of three went everywhere together, whether it be a vacation in Florida or Caribbean Cruise - or a trip downtown to see her beloved Red Wings. Julie wanted Brayden to experience EVERYTHING. She couldn’t have known what a gift she was giving him.

We had a private service for Julie on Thursday attended by family and close friends. One after the other, people talked about how much she cared. How she was never too busy to ask how someone was doing - to lend an ear and a smile - and never ever let anyone leave without a hug goodbye and an “I Love You”. She got that from her Mom… along with her beautiful blue eyes.

As a Dad, I couldn’t be more proud of my little girl. Her loving heart and enthusiastic spirit will live on in our memories - and in my Grandson Brayden - who at 9 is already funny and wise beyond his years - and who we will continue to love with a passion matched only by Julie & Brad.

Over the years, people often referred to our Family as “Dick & Gail, and the 6 J’s” - Jennifer, Jackie, Jill, JoAnne, Jessica and Julie.

And we still are.

-Dick