My name is Tina Furnish Povaleri, Uncle Chuck’s niece.  When I was younger I was able to go on a cross-country adventure with Uncle Chuck in his semi to Oklahoma.  I was able to stay with him and Aunt Judy for several weeks.  I think this was the beginning of the special bond that we had.  Anyone who knew Uncle Chuck, knows how stubborn he could be.  I think this is definitely a Furnish trait and I have been reminded by my husband that I have inherited this trait too!  He was also a jokester that liked to tease everyone.  I can still hear our conversations – arguing about who called who last and reminding each other that the phone rings on both ends.  Also, his favorite phrase to me was….”Yeah – Right!” (of course in his sarcastic tone!) 

               Uncle Chuck had his vices – just like the rest of us.  However, there is no doubt that he loved his family – especially Aunt Judy and it seemed like after she died tragically – his vices unfortunately took a stronger hold on him.  He loved his horse, truck driving, IU basketball, and Dallas Football.  He also loved collecting things and was always looking for the next big treasure.  He mostly loved being independent.  Unfortunately, recently he was burden with not feeling well, needing oxygen, and not being about to live the quality of life that he wanted.  He was hopeful that the surgery could help alleviate some of that – but he was just too physically weak. 

               I know many of us are heart-broken beyond words, but I believe that we can find hope in the fact that Uncle Chuck wanted to go to a hospital that was very spiritual and faith-based.  This hospital said prayers morning and night over the intercom for all to hear.  I pray that this helped him find the peace that he wanted and that he is now able to breathe easy again, surrounded by his loved ones that preceded him.