Rodent Regatta

IN MEMORY and HONOR

Yesterday, we buried my father-in-law. He served
valiantly as a soldier in World War II. He served
steadfastly as a member of his church. He served
lovingly as a husband, a father to three wonderful
daughters and a granddaddy to seven outstanding
grandchildren. The two oldest grandchildren could
not attend the funeral because they too are serving
in places too distant to get home in time for the
funeral. However, as the five grandchildren who
were present rose to sing in his honor, the voices
of the two missing could be heard clearly.

The moment that overwhelmed hit me as I stood
shoulder-to-shoulder with two of the young men
who called him ”granddaddy.” As we slid the casket
into the hearse and stepped back, our loss felt real
and final. These two fine people could no longer
hide the holes they were feeling in their hearts.
The moment portrayed all that he had so
quietly given to each member of the family.

We’ll miss him, but we’ll continue in service
in a manner that will honor his memory.