Published by Mary Potter Kenyon
A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Mary Potter Kenyon is a certified grief educator trained under world-renowned grief expert David Kessler, a Therapeutic Art Coach and author of seven books. She is a public speaker and workshop presenter for art centers, churches, community colleges, libraries, women's groups, grief support groups, and writing conferences on the topics of writing, couponing, utilizing your creativity in everyday life, and finding hope in grief. Her books include "Coupon Crazy: The Science, the Savings, and the Stories Behind America's Extreme Obsession," "Chemo-Therapist: How Cancer Cured a Marriage," "Refined By Fire: A Journey of Grief and Grace," "Mary & Me: A Lasting Link Through Ink," co-written with Mary Jedlicka Humston, "Expressive Writing for Healing," and "Called to Be Creative: A Guide to Reigniting Your Creativity."
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David Edward Kenyon, 60, died on March 27, 2012, leaving behind a grieving wife and eight loving children he was extremely proud of. David was born on March 28, 1951, in Perry, Iowa, the son of Lauren Kenyon and Helen Blank Kenyon. He attended Minburn High School and graduated from UNI in 1981 with a B.A. in Social Work. David met the love of his life on July 28, 1978. They were joined in holy matrimony on June 2, 1979. David would have humbly described himself as a simple man, but he was a hero to his friends and family, surviving a grueling cancer treatment in 2006 and becoming the epitome of a perfect husband and father.
Mary Potter Kenyon 
Mary, I am truly sorry for your loss. There are so many things going through my mind right now hearing of his passing. I have never met you or David but yet I feel like I know you. God will be with you at this time.
Beth
Oh, Mary. I’m so sorry! I read your blog and your daughter’s blog faithfully and pray for you all–and will continue to do so. May you feel the Lord’s presence as you grieve.
My heart hurts for you. Dave was a special man. May God walk with you and your family through this grieving time.
God Bless
Tami
Love You Mary – Keith is at home today – if you need anything.
My heart is turned upside down and inside out as I grieve David’s passing with you and your family. He was Truly, a very special person. My prayers are with you and your family Mary. The Lord truly does work in mysterious ways. I will always remember the time I spent with you and David.
Mary-
I am so sorry for your loss. I just don’t know what to say right now. I feel the same as Beth above, although I never met either of you, through your many years of writing about your family that I have followed, he truly was a wonderful man. As you and your family grieve the passing of this fine man, many blessings and prayers are with you all at this time. May you find peace through this time with God’s loving arms around you all..
Love you my friend,
Lisa
Mary and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my family’s thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Wood family
Oh my, I am so so sad to hear this news 😦 May the Lord bless you and give you comfort during this awful time. He comforts those who mourn, and He will carry you through.
Mary, I just found out about David…I’m so sad to hear this news…my heart literally sank. I’m thinking of your family in this time of loss. ♥
Mary and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. May the Lord hold you in his hands during this sorrowful time.
The Fisher Family
Mary, my heart aches today. We will see you soon!
Love,
Susan
So sorry for your loss. I know you will all heal soon and be ready to move on in time. Give those children an extra hug tonight.
Not any words can be said to fill the hole in your heart, but please know I care ❤
Mary,
My dearest sister and my bestest friend when we were growing up. What sorrow I feel for you and your children and sweet Jacob. I called and talked on your answering machine leaving a message that seemed so impersonal, but nonetheless necessary, to reach you during this difficult time. You and your children are heavy on my heart. God had put you on my mind this week and now I know why. I pray that God will comfort you as only He can and that He wraps His loving arms around you and your children.
God’s word says, “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.”
With each tear you cry and each ache of your heart I pray that God’s grace sustains you, supports you, strengthens you, encourages you and uplifts you. I’m unable to travel after having two unsucessful back surgeries and knee surgery but I’m here for you and I’m so glad I found this blog. Our bible study group and church are praying for you and your family and continue to pray for Jacob. I love you.
Your sister
Sharon
I am so very sorry for your loss Mary. You and your family are in my prayers during this very difficult time. HUGSSS
Alexis
Oh, Mary, what a shock! I am so sad for you! I also feel like I know you & your family in a way because of all your articles in the refund magazines over the years and now your blog.
Thank goodness you have a large, loving family nearby. Lean on them.
“Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.” I pray that you and your children will receive comfort as you begin this next phase of your life. Sending special prayers for Jacob and Elizabeth, too. What a lot to cope with all at once. It will get better.
Love from your refunding friend,
Carole
Dear Mary, I read about your husband on my mom’s fb wall. May the Lord comfort you, hold you in His gentle hands, and fill you with His abundant love and peace as you and your children grieve the loss of your husband.