In loving memory of

Dr. Luis Felipe Bonilla
June 4, 1962 - December 26, 2011

Luis Bonilla, loving husband and father, dedicated surgeon.

Dr. Luis F. Bonilla, 49, of Rochester, MN died in a helicopter crash Monday, December 26th, 2011 near Palatka, Florida. Luis Felipe Bonilla was born June 4, 1962 in Cali, Colombia to Carlos and Anayansi (Jaramillo) Bonilla.

Luis first came to the Mayo Clinic as a visiting physician in April of 1991 to February of 1992.He returned to the Mayo Clinic in 1993 and entered into a one year Thoracic Surgery Fellowship.After his fellowship he returned home to Cali, Colombia to work as a Thoracic surgeon.In order to build his practice in Colombia, Luis returned to Mayo in 1997 for a fellowship in Cardiac Surgery.While completing his two year fellowship, Luis met and married his wife Tracy, a nurse in the cardiac intensive care unit, and they welcomed their daughter, Ana.

With the mentoring of Dr. Hartzell Schaff, Luis was brought into a career in cardiac surgery innovations with St. Jude Medical in Minneapolis/St. Paul.During these years, Luis had the opportunity to travel abroad and write articles about his research in cardiac surgery devices.Although he enjoyed the challenges of research, Luis missed direct patient care and felt called use the gift of his hands to operate.In 2005, he received an invitation to come back to Mayo to retrain in an accredited program and become Board Certified in the United States.

From 2005-2011, Luis spent countless hours in the hospital becoming a board certified general surgeon and completing another full fellowship in Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery.When he wasnt at the hospital, he enjoyed every minute as family man.He had a continuous passion for building good memories for the kids.Luis and Tracy had two sons, Philip and Anthony during his years at St. Jude Medical.He adored his children and was very proud of them. Tracy cannot say enough about Luis energy and drive to build memories for the three children.They spent many hours as a family boating on the Mississippi River and Lake Minnetonka, biking in Lanesboro, going to the Twin Cities for weekends and traveling on family vacations in the States and to Colombia.Luis loved to play with his kids. Together they enjoyed flying RC helicopters, planes, and kites. He never missed an opportunity to teach his children important life lessons.

He is survived by his wife, Tracy; three children: Ana (12), Philip (9), and Anthony (7); his father, Carlos of Cali, Colombia; one brother, Juan Carlos (Eleonora) Bonilla of Cali, Colombia; one niece, Juliana Bonilla; one nephew, Carlos Andres; father and mother-in-law, Gary (Carolyn) Fish of Waupun, WI, brother in-law, Jason (Melissa) Fish and their children, Makenzie and Madigan, of New Berlin, WI; and one sister-in-law, Lisa (Sean) Fromolz, and their children, Tyler and Hunter, of Waupun, WI.He was preceded in death by his mother, Anayansi.

A Catholic Mass was held in Cali, Colombia.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at Autumn Ridge Church, 3611 Salem Rd SW, with the Reverend C. John Steer officiating.Visitation will be from 4:00 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes.

Memorials should be directed to the Bonilla childrens college savings fund.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN55901 (507) 289-3600www.ranfranzandvinefh.com

Tributes

Miguel Rodríguez wrote on Dec 26, 2020:

"a great human being, honest, hardworking, dedicated to his wife and children and a pride for our family, I remember you and you will always be in our hearts, beloved cousin"

Miguel Rodríguez wrote on Dec 26, 2020:

"a great human being, honest, hardworking, dedicated to his wife and children and a pride for our family, I remember you and you will always be in our hearts, beloved cousin"

Liz Evers wrote on Jan 10, 2012:

"Dear Tracy, although I hadn''t seen Luis Felipe for many years, we went to school together and knew him enough to know what a great person he was!  He was bright, kind, and warm, well loved by his friends! Even though you and I haven''t met, please receive my warmest condolences.  Hope you and your children find some comfort in the great memories you must all have!"

Jaime Rodriguez Y Pablo Rodriguez wrote on Jan 9, 2012:

"Tracy e hijos lamentamos mucho el sensible fallecimiento de mi primo hermano luis felipe, que el seor lo tenga en su gloria y descanse en paz, son los deseos mas sinceros de su primo hermano."

Sarah Raymond wrote on Jan 9, 2012:

"Dear Tracy and Family, It was not long ago that we spoke of your new adventure in life with Luis and your children. My deepest sympathy to all of you on the loss of Luis. My heart aches for you. I think of you often. May God Bless and Guide you thru the days. Remember you will never walk alone. I am sorry I was unable to attend the visitation but my thought and prayers have been with you. Sarah Raymond "

Takako Yamamoto wrote on Jan 7, 2012:

"Dear Tracy and Bonilla family I noticed the accident this morning.  I can''''''''t find the good words to send you. I just want to fly to you and hold you. Luis is besides you forever. And also I am. If you need my help, please let me know. I am here. Takako"

Alejandro Aldana & Natalia Castao wrote on Jan 7, 2012:

"Dear Tracey, We have no words to express our sorrow and deep sadness for the loss of your dear husband. We met you both at Rochester during the summer of 1997 while I was doing some training at Mayo. Luis Felipe and I were kind of related since his cousin Maria Clara Jaramillo (Cali) is the wife of my cousin Milton Mora. We had the priviledge of sharing good times with you at our home in Rochester... Such good memories. May all the memories of your life together, the love of family, friends and your precious children sustain you during this difficult time. Luis Felipe will be forever in your heart, he''ll live through your children and his love will be with you always. "

Jim & Kenna Baber wrote on Jan 5, 2012:

"Tracy,  You and the children are in our thoughts and prayers"

Milton Mora wrote on Jan 5, 2012:

"Felipe tu pronta partida nos deja un vacio en la familia, tus buenos recuerdos se mantendran en nuestra memoria. Confiamos en que estes gozando la cercania de Dios en compania de Anayansi, como un premio al cumplimiento de tu mision y refinamiento de tu espiritu en esta corta estadia. Lo que dejas en esta tierra, tu familia, esposa e hijos recibiran la cosecha, los frutos de tu trabajo arduo al que te enfrestaste, con tenacidad y triunfos. Disfruta la vida eterna."

Julia (Stuebner-Holt) Salzman wrote on Jan 5, 2012:

"Dear Tracy and family - I was devastated to hear of your loss. I remember you all fondly from my year working in the office at Bamber Valley. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time."

Matt and Heather Schoolfield wrote on Jan 4, 2012:

"Tracy and family Your loss touches all of us in deep way due to both of your kindness and outgoing friendly spirits.  Luis befriended me in the short time we were at mayo and we both appreciated your warm hospitality.  Now we trust in eternity and pray that your meeting this daily challenge with peace and strength found in the Lord and those around you.  We are here for you in anyway we can. matt and heather"

Jeff Brookmire wrote on Jan 4, 2012:

"Sorry for your loss."

Jairo y Esperanza Vargas wrote on Jan 4, 2012:

"Estimados : Tracy, Ana, Phillip y Anthony: Creemos por fe, que el unico que llenara el vacio tan grande que ha dejado tu querido y admirado Luis Felipe, es Nuestro Padre Celestial, quien esta muy junto a ti y a los ninos, llenandoles de su Amor,de su Luz, fortaleza y sabiduria, para seguirlos guiando por Su camino. San Juan 14:6 "Yo soy El Camino, La Verdad y La Vida, dice El Senor, nadie llega al Padre sino por mi" Siempre estaremos unidos en oracion por ti  y tus ninos. Tus Hermanos en Cristo, Jairo  Esperanza y familia"

Gary Cleveland wrote on Jan 4, 2012:

"You are all in my thoughts, my heart and my prayers.  May God hold you in the palm of his hand."

Carolina Forero Osorio wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Para toda la familia: Mi ms  sincero "LO SIENTO"  de todo corazn. Que descanse en paz del Seor y pido en mis oraciones  les de  sabidura para entender y resignacin para aceptar la muerte de nuestro querido y recordado Felipe. Un abrazo Carolina"

Dawn Koceja wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Tracy, In the brief time that I was able to chat with Luis about my condition he changed my life. He gave me hope that there are other avenues to explore, to not give up and to continue to fight for myself and my health. He encouraged me to seek out a solution that I feel comfortable with. His words and suggestions will continue to guide my fight. When I told my children about his accident, they asked if he had any children. When I told him about your kids my son said, Their dad helped our mom. His legacy lives on. God bless you and your family. Dawn Koceja"

Amy Harmsen wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Tracy, Words cannot express the sorrow I am feeling for you. My heart breaks for you and your kids..... Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you, Amy "

Amy Harmsen wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Tracy, Words cannot express the sorrow I am feeling for you. My heart breaks for you and your kids..... Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you, Amy "

Amy Harmsen wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Tracy, Words cannot express the sorrow I am feeling for you; my heart breaks for you and your kids... Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you, Amy"

Jennie Blue wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"May your faith sustain you, and your memories give you comfort in your time of sorry. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers."

Linda and KD Del Fabro wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Tracy and Family Our heartfelt and deepest sympathy and prayers are with you and your family.  Some of the best memories of my childhood include your family.  My Dad Tug and my Mom Annie were best friends with your Grandpa Tony and your Grandma Ruth.  I pray your wonderful memories will give you strength during this so very sad time.  Bless you and your Family."

Sam Foster wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"To the Bonilla family, I am praying for your family. May you be comforted in this time of sadness."

Lisa Love wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"To The Bonilla Family: I will miss Dr. Bonilla dearly!  He holds a very special place in my heart as he was not only my colleague, but my friend.  I was his secretary at Mayo Clinic when he rotated into General Surgery.  He had a passion not only for his patients, but his passion for his family ran deep.  He was so proud the day he came up to tell me he was traveling to Jacksonville to continue his career.  He was proud as well as excited!  His smile would always light up the room!  My heart hurts for you and your family.  Dr. Bonilla always talked of his family as well as family from Wisconsin and the Green Bay Packers!  I grew up in Wisconsin!  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  God Bless you all!  Dr. Bonilla will be watching over you as well as all of us here!  Watch for the brighest star in the sky and that will be Dr. Bonilla shining down on all of us!"

John Moss, M.D. wrote on Jan 3, 2012:

"Mrs. Bonilla and Family: I want to express my deepest condolences on the loss of your husband and father. I knew Luis only a short time during his time at Mayo Florida, but in that short time I grew to respect him as a surgeon and physician. As we shared our patients together, I admired the time he spent with them and the wonderful communication with colleages and the dedication to his work. I was also with him only a few days before his death, and all of us thought highly of him. I hope that you can find peace during this difficult time in the knowledge of how respected Dr. Bonilla was and that during his short time at Mayo Florida, we were impressed with his skill, dedication, and compassion. Best Regards, John Moss Pulmonary/Critical Care Fellow"

Dr.T.Agasthian wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"Dear Tracy, We have not met but I and Luis were general thoracic fellows way back in 19993 -1995.We shared many fond memories together. He was a great surgeon, doctor, friend and wonderful human being. I still cannot believe he is gone. What a waste of great talent. My sincere and heartfelt condolences and prayers to you and the children during this difficult times. God,s blessings will be with you. Agasthian,Singgapore."

Maria Fernanda Yanguas Syriopoulos wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip, and Anthony Dear Juan Carlos and family Life is just an instance in eternity. It is an opportunity to learn about love, as it is the one thing that never dies. Love one another as Luis Felipe loved you! Trust in the Lord Jesus, only He can console your hearts and fill them with peace, joy, and overflow abundance of love. In Greece I will continue to pray for Gods light to brighten your path and for Him to show you the way. You are not alone, God is with you, call on Him and He has promised to reply and show you great and wonderful things that you do not know! Maria Fernanda Yanguas (Class 1979 Colombo Britanico) "

Jason Galdonik wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"Dear Bonilla family, I am so sorry and saddened by the loss of Luis. I had the privilege of getting to know Luis during my time at Vascular Science and St. Jude. We spent many hours in the lab and also traveling together. One of my favorite memories is when we traveled to Memphis and took time to tour Graceland! I hope it gives comfort to know just what an incredible influence Luis was to those around him. He so often spoke about his family and children and must have been a great husband and dad. I really enjoyed his integrity, his competitive spirit, and probably most of all his sense of humor and positive approach to life. Please know he will always be missed but never forgotten. Kind regards, Jason Galdonik"

Billy Osorio wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"Tracy, I feel Luis very close to my heart, and felt pain for his departure. He was and continues to be inspirational to me and many of our close friends from school. I want to express my deepest condolences to you and your family. Remember you have a family of friends in "Colombo Clase del 79"."

Susan Gunderson wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"Dear Tracy and family, My deepest condolences on the tragic loss of your dear husband and father. On behalf of LifeSource and all those who work daily to save lives through organ donation, we are deeply touched by the work of Dr. Bonilla who so graciously each day worked to help others. He has left an incredible legacy, and has touched so many, may you find comfort and healing in these very difficult days.  We are holding you in our thoughts and prayers. Susan Gunderson, Chief Executive Officer LifeSource, St. Paul, Minnesota"

Valerie Adomakoh wrote on Jan 2, 2012:

"I have found myself a hiding place I have found myself a secret space In the shelter of Almighty's love In the safety of my Savior's arms I will run to the hiding place I will run to the hiding place Draw me ever closer to look upon Your face I will run to the hiding place And though my fears may overwhelm me And troubles they surround Though the wind rise up to take me My hiding place is already found I have found myself a hiding place I have found myself a secret space In the shelter of Almighty's love In the safety of the Savior's arms. Tracy, many a Friday morning we have sung this song together. It is your song now. With Love and tears, Valerie, Tim, Noa, Jona and Joel "

Bradley Phelps wrote on Jan 1, 2012:

"To the family of Dr. Luis Bonilla, I hold the memories of Louie in my heart.  I enjoyed my time with him during his training in the 90's at Mayo while I was still there.  When he was working with Dr. Daly and I he always brighten up the room and made the work seems like just a day with a good friend.  I am so sorry for your lose and I hope that you are comforted by the fact that Louie was a very loved man and highly respected by all.  May God be with you during this very difficult time. Sincerely, Bradley Phelps "

Steve and Ann Frazier wrote on Jan 1, 2012:

"Gary, Carolyn and family, So sorry to hear about your loss.  We are praying for you and your family. Let us know if we can do anything for you.   With love from Oakhaven and WCYC, Steve, Ann Frazier and Orpha Frazier"

Pilar Muoz wrote on Jan 1, 2012:

"Tracy De todo corazn te deseo fuerza y sabidura para enfrentar tan difcil momento. Que tu y tus nios logren la paz y conformidad ante esta gran perdida. Un abrazo para ti y nios"

Les & Mary Schraufnagel wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Philip & Anthony, Our deepest sympathy to you on the loss of your husband & father. It was a great pleasure knowing Luis over the past ten plus years. He was one terrific individual to converse with and his knowledge seemed unlimited. Luis will be sadly missed but not forgotten. Thoughts & Prayers Les & Mary"

Bill Whitaker wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, My heart goes out to you and your family. Luis was such a great man and friend. Whenever we'd talk he would invariably come back to talking of you and the kids. He always was smiling and excited about the future.  He was truly one of the kindest men I've known. We will all miss him. My prayers are with you and your family."

Terry and Shirley Canniff wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy You and your family are in our thoughts constantly. Hang on to your memories.  You have such wonderful ones. We pray for your strength.  May God Bless all of you. Shirley and Terry Canniff "

Alex Peterson wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Tracy and family - Our deepest condolences for your loss of Luis. Indeed the world's loss.  What an inspiration Luis was and still is to so many of us, with his outlook on facing challenges and his cheerful approach to life in general! I really enjoyed working with Luis over the St. Jude years, and staying in touch since.  Luis was a truly honorable and brilliant person.  He was so excited this summer when he told me about the new role at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, and how you were all excited to move there and start a new phase in life. He will not be forgotten, and I know his legacy will live on in you and your beautiful children. Alex and Gerry"

The Villaramas wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip, and Anthony: Please know that we share in your sorrow and we are always here for you anytime. Luis would be missed greatly! Let's hold on to the happy memories he left behind. Tess/Bobby and family"

Jennifer Fish wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, I am so, so sorry for your loss.  My heart aches for all of you.  Luis was a very kind man, he is a blessing to our family.  Our prayers are with you and the kids.  We love you. Jenny"

The Nogas wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip and Anthony, We extend our deepest sympathy to you.  We feel privileged to have known Luis and we will not forget him.  We are praying for all of you. Peggy, Doug, Marie and Laura"

Alissa and Chris Bishop wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy - Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.  Your husband was a wonderful and thoughful man the few times we met him at your mom''s house.  Wishing you the best through this hard time. Alissa and Chris Bishop (Waupun, WI)"

Pam Dose wrote on Dec 31, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip, and Anthony,   Your loss so abrupt, so unimaginable, so deep.  My heart just aches.  Luis was loved and respected by all of us in the OR.....he brightened my day..always a pleasure to work with...and I always felt our patients were in the best of hands when he was with us.....truly a gift.   My prayers for you... God''s loving arms around you, providing the comfort, strength, and healing only He can provide. May our Almighty LORD guide you through the coming days, and may you find His peace.....love, Pam "

Dr. Percita L. Ellis wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dr. Bonilla.  While I did not know him personally, as a fellow physician, I cannot but marvel at how well he was respected and admired by his peers and patients. I used to live in Jacksonville, Fl and Gainesville, Fl where I obtained my residency medical training. Dr. Bonilla undoubtedly had that very special dedication to his patients that only a few physicians can boast.  His unselfish commitment to helping others will be greatly missed.   "

Cheryl LeMaster wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"To The Bonilla Family, My husband and I met Dr. Bonilla during an appointment on Dec. 20 at Mayo Jacksonville.  He had to give us some disappointing news but he was extremely compassionate and kind.  Dr. Bonilla took time with us to answer our questions and was just genuinely nice.  Please know that we share in your sorrow."

Todd Smith wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"Dear Bonilla Family, I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your Husband and father. My families thoughts and prayers, as well as the thoughts and prayers of everyone in Phillip's cub scout pack will be with you. Please let me know if I can do anything to help you. God Bless!"

Todd Smith wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"Dear Bonilla Family, I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your Husband and father. My families thoughts and prayers, as well as the thoughts and prayers of everyone in Phillip''s cub scout pack will be with you. Please let me know if I can do anything to help you. God Bless!"

The Schlegel Family wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted      and saves those who are crushed in spirit.                                 Psalm 34:18 May these comforting words give you peace in knowing the Lord is with you in the darkest hours.   With love & prayers, Chuck, Kristen, Braden & Avery "

Todd Berg wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"Dear Tracy- I am very saddened to hear of your loss.  I had the opportunity to get to know Luis well through our many travels together.  He was a very good man, it was always enjoyable to be in his company. He made an impact with his life, which will continue through you and your family.  You will find the courage you need, and I hope you find some comfort in the kind words and support from those remembering him. -Todd Berg"

Rick and Paula Len wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Philip and Anthony; You have all been in our thoughts and prayers since we first heard the tragic news.  We have had countless conversations about Luis and the way he loved and embraced life.  Always ready for a new adventure, with a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes.  These memories will be with us always. Rick and Paula Len"

Dave Cardwell wrote on Dec 30, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip and Anthony, I was stunned by the word that Luis was gone. Words fall short of telling what a kind, gifted soul he had. Very few people are able or willing to give of themselves so selflessly as Luis. Everything that you love about him he shared with us. I always had a better day when I worked with him. When I was critically ill, I was grateful that Luis shared in my care at St Mary's. As you will, I will miss him everyday. God bless you all and your family, Dave Cardwell "

Starr Bourque Wyland wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip and Anthony, Our hearts our broken for you and we are praying for you daily. We send our love and deepest sympathy to you and your extended family. We will continue to pray for you all. Sending our love, Starr, Marty and Charlotte"

Denise Ashlin wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Tracy, Ella and I have you in our thoughts and prayers.   We love you and wish you strength in this time of sorrow. Please give the kids an extra hug from us. Love Always, Denise"

Jerry Porter wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Tracy, we have not met.  I knew Luis from his time in the ORs at Methodist. I struggled to atriculate to my family all the ways Luis was truly different from others in his field.  You used the word NOBLE to describe him in the paper yesterday.  NOBLE he was in every way. I grieve for you and your family.  As well, the world has lost an exquisitely talented and beautiful force for good. Jerry Lee Porter, CRNA (retired)"

Jerry Lee Porter wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Tracy, we have not met.  I knew Luis from his time in the ORs at Methodist. I struggled to articulate in what way Luis was very different from some others in his field.  The word you used in the Post Bulletin, NOBLE to describe him was the word for which I was searching.  NOBLE in every way. I grieve for you and your family.  As well, the world has lost an exquisitely talented and beautiful force for good. Jerry Lee Porter, CRNA, retired"

Don Cresecenzo, M.D. wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Dear Bonilla Family: I am deeply sadened to hear of Luis's passing.  While I never had the opportunity to meet you,  Luis and I worked together at the Mayo Clinic back in the mid nineties.  I have always enjoyed catching up with him at meetings.  Luis was an exceptional person.  His simle and positive attitude where contagious.  My prayers are with your family.  He will be missed by many people that had the privilege of working with him."

Joel and Nancy Stolte wrote on Dec 29, 2011:

"Dear Tracy, Ana, Phillip and Anthony, Nancy and I have followed the news since it first broke here in Bogota on Monday. It has been a while since we enjoyed a wonder evening of fellowship and dinner in your home in Eden Prairie. Nancy has always expressed thankfullness for Dr. Luis''s translation of her laboratory reports from Colombia before she stated her chemo in Hibbing. We often have thought of you all and just a month or so ago found a contact (extended family member), Dr. Jeff Geske, who knew Dr. Luis as he is in cardiology training there at Mayo. May you know in unique and special ways the comfort that the Holy Spirit brings during these tough days. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Joel"