What a week this has been! On Saturday morning we learned that Jeremy's beloved grandpa had been admitted into a local hospice. He had been receiving home hospice care as he waged a ten year war against cancer. The cancer had taken over his body and he was in excruciating pain. Once the staff was able to finally make him comfortable, he quietly slipped into an unresponsive state and never regained conciseness. That evening (less than 12 hours after he walked himself into the hospice!) he peacefully went to Heaven. Over the last few weeks he told us he was ready. He wanted God to take him home. That evening he got his wish and went on his terms, his way. Just like he lived his life.
Most of Jeremy's extended family was able to come for the funeral on Wednesday. We were able to give him the beautiful, classy, and meaningful sendoff that he deserved. His lifelong friends, co-workers, grandchildren, daughters, and wife were able to share their favorite memories of Gramps. There were lots of tears, but also lots of laughs and smiles.
Gramps was a wonderful man. Ornery as anything, but also hard working, devoted, loyal, and honest. I'm sad that he will not be here to watch Caden grow up and that he'll never remember Gramps, but I'm grateful for the 8 months that Caden had with him. I'm thankful that just 3 weeks ago, Gramps was able to participate in Caden's dedication at church. He was in a lot of pain that day, but he was determined to be there.
I'm grateful for the 16 years that I knew him (that's 50% of my life!) and that the family allowed me to be a part of his celebration. When I said goodbye to him in the hospice I promised him that I would love his oldest grandson as much as he had loved Gram (I always knew they had quite a love story, but I have learned WAY more over the last few days!) and I would raise his newest great grandson to be as hardworking, loyal, and kind as he was.
We miss you Gramps! Here are a few of my favorite pictures of Gramps and Caden.
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