Dear Editor:

I'm filled with a great amount of pleasure and pride for my family after my daughter-in-law, Teresa Altherr, received a call from Gale Leslie, Bob Evans Farms manager of events, inquiring about the possibility of featuring a quilt exhibit highlighting my wife, Helen Altherr, who passed away two years ago.

I watched Teresa spend many, many hours developing this large project. In honor of her mother-in-law, she researched information about the quilts, connected with relatives and friends and transported it all to Gale where Gale put in many hours developing the displays at the Homestead.

The exhibit was shown at the Bob Evans Homestead in Rio Grande from April 1, 2007 through December 2007 and was named the “Reflections of Life” by Helen Altherr. The collection had more than 50 quilts, paintings and creations of Helen's that she made throughout her lifetime.

Helen's quilts are always known for their fine detail and complex design. A favorite was the “Baskets of Flowers,” which traveled throughout many states on display for over 1-1/2 years.

At the end of the exhibit, all of Helen's families were invited to the Homestead for the exhibit's closing and a special appreciation presentation. Our families were very apprecative when Gale took all of the items Teresa collected and presented us with an heirloom photo album, which included all of the photos, historical information and stories of each piece of Helen's. That book will be something that we'll treasure for generations to come.

Helen's families express their gratitude to the Bob Evans Farms Homestead for the opportunity to exhibit Helen's beautiful works of art. More specifically, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Gale Leslie and Ray McKinnis, Bob Evans Farm manager, for honoring Helen and her love of quilting and art. Also, our family and friends who helped with the exhibit by lending items to be displayed and who helped share their stories and information.

Fred Altherr

Jackson