Though it is still summer and the days still long, the principal source of warmth and light that has shone upon me for the last 28 years is gone.

That is because Sally Hayton-Keeva, my beloved wife and beloved “mom” to Gracie and Cisco Kid, passed away on August 12, 2004. She was 55.

In her too-short time on earth, and my too-short time as her lover, friend and husband, Sally shared her infectious laughter, good nature, ready smile and courage, compassion and talent with a population of friends, acquaintances and strangers whose numbers I am only now starting to comprehend.

Yet I am not surprised.

Throughout the 28 years we knew and loved each other, Sally’s enormous heart and unyielding principals simply would not allow her to ignore a situation if she thought she could change it even slightly for the better.

Whether that meant adopting and sponsoring Vietnamese orphans, making soup for sick friends, or cookies for healthy friends, struggling to protect nature and open space, or preserve and protect historic homes and schoolhouses, Sally’s innate, nurturing nature compelled her to try and make life a little better, or more beautiful and enjoyable.

Over the years, Sally shared her heart, and her gifts as and author, writer and columnist with thousands of readers through her books, plays, magazine articles and newspaper columns and stories.

I feel honored and lucky that she chose to share her life with me.

A graveside service for Sally Hayton-Keeva will be held Saturday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m. at Sunnyside Cemetery, Coupeville. Memorials may be made to Krueger Farm Fund, P.O. Box 1515, Coupeville, WA 98239. Arrangements by Burley Funeral Chapel.