Eulogy by Jason’s Cousin Jesse Leraas

First, let me apologize, I’ve put off putting my words down on paper for too long. I didn’t have anything written down when I spoke at Jason’s eulogy, but I knew I would never forgive myself it I hadn’t said something. Unfortunately, I was so overcome by grief that I had a hard time remembering everything that had been going through my mind.

After hearing about Jason’s death, the lyrics from an old James Taylor song, “Shower the people you love with love, show them the way that you feel.” 

I started to think about how disconnected I feel from my family… even those that live in my own house.  How a career and life and paying bills can overshadow the real important things; family.

So my advice, my plea is this:

Fathers and mothers tell your children you love them every day.

Sons and daughters pick up the phone and give your parents a call.

…because you never know when you won’t have that chance.

“Things are gonna be much better if you only will”

To me, Jason was “The Great Connector.” Think of different ways to get everyone together. He was always trying to get me to go along to some game or Frisbee golf tournament or whatever crackpot, hair-brained, money-making scheme (or joyride) he might have concocted. I feel remorse because I had to tell him on more than one occasion, “No, I can’t I have to this” or “We’re doing this on that day” or “Dude, I am so broke.” I wish I would have followed on his coat tails just one more time. I’m sure we all wish we could.