12 - “GREAT” UNCLES

“GREAT” UNCLES

18 x 14 inches

(c. 1910—Great-Uncle Max Friis and Uncle Forrest Young)

Great-Uncle Max seems to assert his leadership while looking down at his nephew, Forrest. Forrest looks determined and independent, as if to announce that he can do things by himself. So it went through the lives of these two strong men. While Uncle Max was a highly respected attorney and community leader, at age sixteen Uncle Forrest confirmed his independence by joining the Navy.

Despite their strength and determination, they were both caring and sensitive. After huge Sunday meals, Grandma cleared the table and read Uncle Forrest’s letters out loud to all of us. His warm, loving letters were a lesson that independent, stalwart men can also possess tender, sensitive hearts. Both uncles left a tremendous legacy of gentle spirits combined with powerful self-determination.

“Great” uncles, indeed.