To The Editor:
The family and friends of Staff Sgt. Robert J. Traxel would like to thank the community for their extreme show of support during this difficult time.
Words cannot express our gratitude and appreciation for all that everyone has done.
Your support was far more than anything we could have ever imagined and we are proud to be a part of this community. Each of you helped make a happier moment in such a difficult time.
We would like to start by thanking the military. Your service goes far beyond “serving our country”. You are family, the brothers and sisters of our fallen soldier, Robert. You and your family will always be in our prayers.
We would like to thank the Patriot Guard Riders. You were there from start to finish. Your time and service to support the family was amazing. For the family that was able to ride with you, it was a privilege. We will remember and respect each of you for all you do.
To the county and state patrol officers, you did an unbelievable job with keeping us all together. Your time and effort to get us where we needed to be is greatly appreciated. It had to have taken much effort and team work to make the procession so streamlined. Your service for our state and communities are greatly appreciated. You will be in our prayers for your continued safety.
Thank you to all the fire and ambulance districts and honor guards, from Eureka to Union. Our hearts were truly touched by each and every one of you. Each time we passed an emergency station, exit or overpass, our hearts were more overwhelmed. It was an honor to see such respect for Robert. Your service to our community is greatly appreciated. You will continually be in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you to Six-Flags for their time and effort to honor Robert with a full line of American Flags and his name displayed on the front sign. So many people see that action, it did not go unnoticed. We would like to thank Union Baptist Temple for all of your thoughts, prayers and visits (even in the middle of the night). It is a comfort to know that each of you is there for a hug, smile and prayer. You are always an encouragement to us. We love each of you.
For all the businesses and individuals that helped make this just a little bit easier … thank you. The American Legion, KSLQ – Brad Hildebrand, The Missourian, Pasta House, Wal-Mart of Washington and Union, Frick’s, Schnucks, Tracy Copeland, Betty, Kim, Raynbow, Union Baptist Temple and everyone whobrought food for the family. There are so many to name, we hope you all know that each of you are in our hearts.
For each of you who made a visit, a phone call, sent a card or flowers, prayed for our healing and comfort; thank you. Your expression of concern, love and faith has been a blessing to each of us. Robert was not just our soldier — he was yours too. Thank you for showing such honor and respect to him and his family and friends. He was greatly loved and will be deeply and forever missed.
May the Lord bless each and every one of you for all of your prayers, service and time. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. Colossians 3:17 (KJV) I can do all things, through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
