So who is this Zel anyway? Zella Hall was my grandmother, a tiny woman who left an impression on everyone she met. Though she was known for her love of fashion (and jewelry), she was also famous for her active lifestyle. Before Alzheimer’s, Zel was an award winning bowler. Alongside her jewelry, she left behind a mountain of silver bowling awards all engraved with her name.
She also was an avid golfer who prided herself on never taking a golf cart, walking the green no matter what the weather. In fact, Zel continued to walk 3 miles a day until Alzheimers made such physical activity impossible.
Politics, crossword puzzles and reading biographies were other passions in Zel’s life. She was always on top of current events, and read the newspaper every day. Zel lived on her own, driving her car until the age of 95. She would even chauffeur her much younger friends to all of their appointments, as well.
In her youth, Zel had worked as a fashion model and had many suitors. With so many marriage proposals, she had to take a trip to the shore of Michigan to ponder which man she would finally select. Ultimately, she married Bob Hall, who was indeed the love of her life. Though he passed away 30 years before her, Zel’s heart remained with Bob all those years. They had the kind of love one only reads about in books.
After Bob’s passing, Zel truly came into her own. She prided herself on her independence. Perhaps this is why she became so angry when Alzheimer’s robbed her of the ability to take care of herself. I will always be grateful to my parents for how they provided for my grandmother during this difficult time. I treasure our final visits when I could help care for her, assisting Zel getting in and out of the car, holding her arm as we shuffled along on her daily walks.
Zel was too much of a spitfire to be remembered this way, though. That’s why I want this site to celebrate the woman she was – vibrant, colorful, full of life.
On that note I’ll share one quick favorite anecdote that exemplifies Zel:
My mother had planned a bonfire/hayride party to celebrate getting a doctorate. It was held on a crisp fall evening and everyone was bundled up in woollen sweaters and hats. Through the darkness, lit only by the light of the bonfire, my grandmother slowly appeared. She was trudging through the field dressed in high heels, an emerald green silk suit, a fur coat, wig, false eyelashes and of course matching jewelry. Like I’ve said, she could turn anything into an event.
I think Zel would enjoy this site. I know she would be pleased to see her jewelry still out there, being enjoyed. So, make today an event. Make every day an event, for Zel and for those you love.