Local man’s story of love, loss and the healing power of a flower garden

Greg Stevens

WATERVILLE, Ohio (WTVG) – A community person who dropped his spouse of much more than 60 many years before this yr has designed a stunning location in her memory. What he’s done is bringing happiness to a good deal of other individuals.

It may well appear like very little a lot more than a straightforward backyard, but it is so substantially more. It has provided Virgil “Dutch” Klotzner purpose and joy right after the decline of his beloved spouse.

Dutch has had a enthusiasm for bouquets due to the fact he was a very little boy, and he likes them all.

“I like anything from dandelions to hollyhocks and roses. Every person likes flowers. I have but to see everyone who can actually turn down a flower,” Dutch stated.

The like of his daily life also loved bouquets.

”I can relate every flower I have to her in one particular kind or a further. The color, the texture, the place it is planted,” Dutch mentioned.

Dutch and Jane had been married for 63 years. Dutch served in the U.S. Navy for 30 many years. Jane also served in the Navy for extra than a ten years. And wherever the two lived, Dutch suggests there was often 1 continual.

“Every home we lived in the initially factor I would do is have it landscaped so she could seem out any window in any path and come across flowers,” Dutch mentioned.

That tradition ongoing at StoryPoint Senior Dwelling in Waterville. The two moved there in 2021 to be closer to loved ones. The backyard commenced with some potted bouquets and grew from there.

“I approach on staying right here the relaxation of my lifetime and one of the items I wanted was flowers. I would not continue to be in this article without having that and that is a actuality,” Dutch claimed.

Dutch misplaced the appreciate of his everyday living in March.

“I simply cannot assume of a single 2nd, or millisecond when I really don’t have her on my brain.”

The garden allows him bear in mind Jane. Amber Branham is the Daily life Enrichment Director at StoryPoint.

“In real Dutch form, his grieving, his sorrow and his happiness commenced to go into this yard,” explained Branham. “So all the enjoy he gave Jane came in this article. He spreads joy all about our community by sharing his wonderful flowers.”

Amber initially achieved Jane in an artwork class and the two became speedy buddies.

“It’s been a great deal various without the need of Jane,” Branham explained. “It’s difficult, but seeing the bouquets is uplifting and inspiring.”

The yard Dutch crafted for Jane has cultivated a great deal of contentment as he shares it with others.

“I sort of really feel as I carry flowers all over and move them out folks will truly feel much better,” Dutch claimed.

Mission accomplished, Dutch.

“He will make 100 men and women smile in his wife’s title each working day. What a beautiful gift,” Amber stated.

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