Grandpa

Above the door frame in my grandparents' home is a decorative board with a painting of a house.  Underneath that house there are painted three words: Faith, Family, and Friends.  These three words represent the priorities my grandparents chose for their home.  

Grandpa Gene passed away without warning on Friday, December 30.  Unexpected as it was, we have all thanked God for the mercy He showed in bringing Grandpa home without suffering.  Just a few days earlier, almost the whole family had all gathered to celebrate Christmas together.  Grandpa was his usual self - telling stories, playing with all the little kiddos, and showing kindness to all.

Grandpa and Grandma with all their grandchildren minus one.

I am so thankful that my two little girls got to be loved on by Grandpa Gene.  He was so pleased to be able to make them laugh, and no one could do bird whistles like Grandpa.

A few days later, some of our family drove down to the farm to do some shooting, and as my dad says - he was in his element: family, the farm, shooting and overalls.

My Uncle Jeff, Michael, Elli and Grandpa. And don't worry - this was just for the photo.  Elli did not want to wear the ear protectors, so she didn't get to shoot.  :)

As I said, Grandpa loved little kids and knew how to make them happy.  :)  Also note his wedding band.  He wore it for 62 years and never took it off.

Grandpa was committed to the things he believed were most important: faith, family, and friends; and what a legacy he has left behind him.  He will be greatly missed!