By Sallie Bachar
Catholic Herald correspondent
Son of Merrill couple among N.Y. missing
MERRILL -- Ken and Jane Oswald lived a very normal, quiet life in Merrill like most local residents until Sept. 11 when they suddenly found themselves personally touched by the tragic terrorist attack on New York.
Their 28-year-old son Jason worked for the investment firm of Cantor Fitzgerald at the World Trade Center. He is one of approximately 700 employees unaccounted for.
Jason had coffee with his girlfriend early on the morning of the attack. He left her at 7:30 a.m. with just enough time to get to his office on the 101st floor before the first plane hit. No word has been received on him.
The Oswalds have given up hope for their son and are planning a memorial service for him on Sunday, Sept. 23, 3 p.m., at the Merrill Bible Church. They have closed their bed and breakfast, Candlewick Inn, temporarily and are accepting visits and consolation from their church family and the Merrill community. They will also attend a service at Wheaton College in Illinois, Jason's alma mater.
Ken said that they have received a tremendous amount of support, encouragement and prayers not only from their own church, but from the entire community as well. "Our God is an awesome God," he affirmed and said the phone calls and prayers are so very much appreciated.
The Oswalds moved to Merrill in 1995 from Houston, Texas. Their son brought his girlfriend home to meet them the week before Labor Day. "We had a great opportunity to visit," said Ken. "Obviously that time has become very precious to us."
© Superior Catholic Herald, 2001