Many miles away, my family is holding the memorial service for my Grandpa. It’s a small, graveside funeral. People are sharing stories, memories. Tears are being shed. Hugs are being given. Laughter and sorrow will be mixed together. It’s a bittersweet day for all.
You see, my Grandpa has been ill for some time. He had many ups and downs. He was a fighter, but even fighters eventually must rest. He is now eternally resting. We all knew that this day would come, but saying that final goodbye is not easy. I will chose to focus on the positive today.
Since I am not there to share my memories, I will share here…
My Grandpa was a blunt man. He would always say it like it was. Sometimes what he said would sting, but it was the truth. So, in honor of my Grandpa, I’ll say it like it was…
My Grandpa was a ornery, hard-headed, feisty man who had a heart of gold. He was a WWII veteran who didn’t really talk about his Naval service. Over the last few years, he wasn’t completely himself, but he still brought smiles to the faces of others. He also gave people grief. He had good and bad days. It was a roller-coaster ride that I’m sure that he’s glad to finally exit.
My memories of my Grandpa are ones of before he was sick. He was a strong, vibrant man who loved the great outdoors. He could tell you all about the trees, plants, wildlife. He loved to fish and shared that passion with others. He was happiest when he was surrounded by nature.
I close my eyes and remember hiking up the mountains, picking blackberries, fishing, laughing, and talking. Grandpa instilled a love of nature in his kids. That passion was passed down to their kids (me included). Now, D and I are passing that love down to Munchkin.
I am grateful that I was able to share those special moments with my Grandpa. I’ll hold onto those beautiful memories as I say goodbye. We love you very much, Grandpa. You will be dearly missed.
🙁 Thinking of you! What a blessing to have known a man of such candor and vitality.
I’m so sorry. I am remembering my grandpa this month too. He died just before we went to Germany 2 years ago. Hugs to you! Wish I could do it in person.
What a beautiful tribute to your grandpa. Sorry for your loss, may he rest in peace. God Bless…
So sorry you can’t be there for the service! Praying peace and joy in your journey!
Heidi recently posted..sweet hour of prayer
Beautifully said. Sorry you could not be there and so sorry for your loss.
Thrifty Canucks recently posted..Sunglass Warehouse Review and Giveaway
i too am sori for your loss and the fact that you couldnt be there
HUGS
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I’m so sorry for the loss of your Grandpa. What a blessing that he taught you about that outdoors and you can pass that on to Munchkin. ((HUGS))
I’m so sorry for your loss! I wasn’t able to attend either of the funerals for my grandmothers when they passed (one in ’99 while we lived in Japan and the other in ’03, as we were preparing to move from NH to HI). It’s hard not to be there, but that’s just the way it is sometimes. Hugs to you!
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I’m so sorry for your loss. This post was a beautiful tribute and had me remembering my grandpa also 🙂
Tamara recently posted..365 – 218 Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread
I’m sorry for the lose that you and your family are experiencing, but it’s nice that you have good memories like fishing with him to look back on.
Ahhh, hugs.
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