My Grandpa walked onto heaven's shore on June 17th, 2012. Words seem to fail me when I try to speak about how much Grandpa means to me. Maybe because words don't even come close to captivating Grandpa's character and life.
He was such a strong yet gentle man. Kindness and compassion flowed from his eyes - with a twinkle that spoke to his great sense of humor. He was a man with an unwavering faith in God, an eternal love for our Grandma and a steadfast love and devotion for his family.
I will never forget seeing him at the table with a pile of Shaklee vitamins, a scrumptious morning breakfast with hot coffee- and before partaking in any of this he would say a morning prayer that covered all of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren by name.
I will never forget sitting in his lap as a little girl as he helped me learn the motions to "Patty Cake", and then as a teenager how he looked me in the eyes and told me he believed in me and how he always encouraged me to stay strong in the Lord at all times. Through baptisms, weddings, and baby dedications he was always there with his quiet smile, gentle laughter, and words of wisdom.
So, thank you for being our Grandpa. You have left us a rich heritage and a lasting legacy. You lived your faith. And we couldn't ask for a better Christ-like example.
Though you are gone from this earth and we miss you so much - we know we will once again see you on heaven's side. Good night, Grandpa - we'll see you in the Morning.