Werner Absenger
The Spirit of Sig
Although no words can help to ease the loss you bear, may the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Our deepest sympathies and hearts are with Sig’s family and friends in this time of sorrow.
Karri and I are still struggling with the news of Sig’s passing. Sig had a big heart and an even bigger spirit. I am lucky enough of having had the pleasure of working with Sig during the summer of 2003. I often tell people that that summer, working the earth with Sig, was probably one of the best summers of my life.
Sometimes, while on a leisurely drive with Karri, I find myself pointing toward houses, landscapes, paths, water features, lawns, and retaining walls. These walls were made out of boulders so big, I still wonder how Sig on his tractor, "Chip" and I were able to put them into place.
I cannot be sure if Sig was ever aware of the fact that he created his own, giant, living, breathing memorial. An organic waypost, bearing witness for generations to come, that here, on West Michigan’s soil, walked a very special creator of happiness and joy.
Sig’s “Wonderland Gardens” are everywhere.
[Where Sig walked the earth...]
The earth is crying-sweet,
And scattering-bright the air,
Eddying, dizzying, closing round,
With soft and drunken laughter;
Veiling all that may befall
[Where Sig walked the earth...]
Earth's still a-tremble there,
And winds are scented yet,
And memory- soft the air,
Bosoming, folding glints of light,
And shreds of shadowy laughter;
- Rupert Brooke
Through his earthwork, Sig brought so many gifts to our community, may you take comfort in knowing that while the man might be gone, The Spirit of Sig remains everywhere.
Ms. Karri and Dr. Werner Absenger