Thursday, May 28, 2009

Goodbye Grandpa Great - We'll Miss You!

The last week has been full of happy and sad memories. Dick, Adam, Geoff, Kim and Gavin planned a trip out to visit over memorial day weekend. Glenn had been getting rather weak, and the family wanted to visit to see him. While they were here Glenn passed away. He did so with all of his family around him and while watching a memorial day service from the early 90s. I think if we had to choose how to go, that would be my choice. I will always remember Glenn's subtle humor, and his pride in both his farm and his family. I loved watching him and Josh do their "secret handshake" and hearing stories of Josh's youth when Glenn gave him "power pills (M&M's)" to knock down small trees. I know that many of the things I love about Josh were inspired by his grandfather, and I feel fortunate that we were able to live here long enough for McKenna and I to get to know him. You'll be missed Glenn!

Although the circumstances were not good, we did get a chance to see Adam, Kim, Geoff, Chantel and Gavin. They stayed with us for a few nights and we had a good time watching the kids play, playing settlers, drinking wine and enjoying each others company.



--It was very fitting that Glenn's chair was decorated with a rose--



--Gavin and Kenna playing--

On Monday we went to Gona and Baca's for brunch. It was good to see the family and Denny made a great breakfast! Then the kids played outside and fed the horses



--ketchup makes everything better!--



--Kenna and Grandma Great--



--Aunti Em and Zachary--



--Adam, Kim and Gavin--



--Baca holding sleeping Zachary--

There was a viewing for close family and friends on Monday night. Because it was so late, I kept the kids home, but Josh went. Tuesday Josh left for the funeral in the morning and I stayed home to get the kids ready. The service was lovely, and very touching. A poem by Kathy and one I had heard before called the Dash really got to me. There were so many people there that it is evident that Glenn was very important to the Perry community, and had many friends.
After the service we traveled to the cemetery. It was very rainy, which was fitting because Glenn loved a good rain. The presentation of the flag and 21 gun salute was very moving. I am not sure that McKenna understands, but she asked lots of good questions and she seemed to know what was going on.

We headed back to the church and had some snacks. Here the kids got a chance to say goodbye before we headed home.



--bye Gavin!--



--he's so cute :)--



--some pictures of the kids on Grandma Great's floor--

--Zachary playing on the floor--

Rest in Peace Glenn. You definitely left behind many family and friends that will miss you desperately.

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