Every August, a lovely picture from 1944 permeates my everyday thoughts and takes me to the steps of a Cathedral for the wedding of my parents, Thomas N. Quilter and Mary Angela Comte. This took place in Toledo, Ohio at Holy Rosary Cathedral.

My Father and Mother first met on a picnic date at DeSales College in the early 40’s. That date turned into a marriage that spanned nearly 60 years, sharing lives totally devoted to each other, their family, their church and their community.

Wedding Day, August 21, 1944

My Father was a Naval Officer and a Physician (and later a vintner) while my Mother was a homemaker and volunteer (and later a co-vintner). There were six children, followed by fourteen grand-children and twelve great grand-children. Their lives were rich in the blessings of family and friends.

Both are now deceased but their legacies of giving and self-sacrifice live on. I had the privilege of offering the eulogy for Mother in 2010 and Dad in 2006. Few things in my life have ever given me more satisfaction.

The most important lesson learned from my parents was their work ethic. Dad’s motto was always “work hard,” “do your very best” and always “do the right thing.” Life is really very simple when you apply these three things. This is the three legged stool. And if you look into your own heart, you will always know if you really worked hard, did your very best and most importantly did the right thing.

With Rings Unique, Connie and I know we are blessed with helping customers involved with the most precious and serious of all relationships. Along with our ring artists, we are privileged to be a small part of your lives, your special wedding day or anniversary, and the legacies you will pass on.