International Day of Remembrance for John Denver

On Sunday, November l6, l997, a Memorial Service was held in Lexington, Kentucky to celebrate the International Day of Remembrance for John Denver.

This Memorial Service was planned and brought in to being through the efforts and love of Barb Page of Lexington. Barb arranged for a Colorado Blue Spruce to be planted in Jacobson Park in that city and a engraved stone to be placed in front of the tree. The engraving was donatied by the engraver, a closet J.D. Fan.

In the late morning of a cold, windy and snowy day, John Denver fans from Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky gathered in a "Circle of Love" to share our feelings of loss and express our Love and Gratitude toward's this singer of songs we had so recently lost.

A single yellow rose graced the Memorial Stone and flower bulbs were planted around it by those gathered. A young lady read John's book "ALFIE, The Christmas Tree" as adults and children huddled close for warmth. Because of the wind, only candles in jars could be lit, but our voices raised the flame of our heartache and sorrow in song. A local TV station was on hand, and filmed the ceremony and spoke to some of the people in attendance.

After the service, we all gathered at Ward's Landing in Harrodsburg for lunch. Overlooking the Kentucky River and the Majestic Palisade Cliffs, this quaint place would have been just to John's liking. We were treated to views of the wild goats that have lived there for centuries, a fire in the fireplace and recordings of John's songs by the management during our meal.

After lunch, we shared pictures and momentoes of John, plus conversed about concerts and events we'd attended. Those who'd had the good fortune to actually meet John told their stories and those who had attended the memorial services in Colorado reflected on their time there. Guitars were brought out and we were treated to many of John's songs and shared in singing "On the Wings of Dream".

Too soon , it was time for those of us who'd driven many miles to start our trips home. My sister, Debbie, and I walked out onto the Bridge that crossed the flowing river and tossed our flowers we'd brought into the river and said our goodbyes to John.

It was a lovely day and great to meet other J.D. fans from the Tri-State Area. But I know we all wished in our hearts, that we had come together for another, happier reason.

As far away as you may go, We'll never be apart

It's in your dreams that you will know, the seasons of the heart - John Denver

Engraved Stone by the Spruce Tree We Planted

Me by the Tree and Stone

Debbie and I by the Tree

My friends Belle, Tracy, friend and Brad

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