Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

The Family of Edwin DeVries Vanderhoop (March 31, 1926 - Jan. 16, 2013) wishes to extend our deepest gratitude for the loving support, care and thoughtful final honors and tributes that were provided to our father and grandfather. There were so many acts of kindness by a great number of individuals that we regret our lack of ability to name all of you. Please know that every kindness, no matter how big or small, was gratefully and humbly accepted and have been appreciated by all of us.

We specifically extend our gratitude to all the EMTs and first responders that rendered aid along with: the staff of the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, Chapman, Cole and Gleason, The Revs. Ellen Tatreau and Roger Spinney, veteran agent Jo Ann Murphy, Veterans of Martha’s Vineyard, the town of Aquinnah honor guard and the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) veterans committee and honor guard, the leadership and staff of the tribe, tribal Medicine Man Jason Baird, Jesse Little Doe Baird, Berta Welch and all our tribal member cousins that supported the many aspects of his memorial ceremonies.

He truly loved all of you and felt safe in your care. You provided gracious support to our entire family while we cared for him during his final days.

Ahch8ee Kutâputunumuw (exceeding thanks to you folks) from the bottom of our hearts.

Tobias Vanderhoop, Aquinnah