Goodbye Pappa

After a very tough couple of weeks, my Pappa passed away last night. As you might recall, I first discussed the quick deterioration of my grandfather's health here.


As sad as this moment is in the lives of our family, we can take solace knowing that Pappa is no longer in pain and is in a much better place...one of peace, eternal hope and salvation.

Over the course of the day, I've smiled more than once thinking back on the lovely memories I have of my Pappa...

...The summers we spent swimming at the pool that Mamma and Pappa had built just for the grandkids.

...My Pappa breaking out the small wagon and horses for the small holiday parades in our little hometown.

...A few winters where Pappa brought out the large wagon and his pair of Clydesdale horses, Kit and Kate, for wagon rides.

...And later in life, when my Pappa would get so tickled to hear all of my stories and experiences as a young lawyer.

Growing up, I sang quite a bit in church. Pappa always told me how much he enjoyed my singing, but his favorite was when I sang a solo of the old hymn, "I Come to the Garden Alone." I have found myself humming that tune many times over the past few weeks, and have found comfort in the lyrics...

I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

He speaks, and the sound of His voice,
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

I’d stay in the garden with Him
Though the night around me be falling,
But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

I love you, Pappa, and will miss you.