Last week one of my uncles passed away. Uncle Grad was 87 years old, he had a good life, and he was a Christian. His health had really declined in the last few years, so knowing he is in heaven makes his passing a blessing.
He was in the Korean War, and had military honors at the graveside. I have only witnessed this a few times and find it very touching, especially hearing Taps played and seeing the flag presented to the widow.
Following that service we all returned to the church for a little lunch. It is good to talk and laugh following a funeral, and bring up memories! This uncle was married to my Dad's younger sister, Esther. They had a family of 10 kids and were full of mischief. Stories came up about my Dad, who has always been a tease. A story we have heard before, but never tire of is that when they were young, Aunt Esther got mad at Dad for picking on her. She threw his new coat down into the outhouse pit. This was during the depression, so times were hard and he got into trouble for losing his coat. She never confessed until she was married. I'm sure he deserved that trouble though, for all he put her through!
When she was older, Dad and another brother told her they had set her up on a blind date. When someone knocked on the door, they told her it was her date, but when she opened it, there was a short little bald man from their church, who had actually come to see their Dad. She laughs about it now, but back then she was pretty upset!
We also heard about one night when Aunt Esther was dating Uncle Grad and they were sitting outside in the car. Dad snuck out, opened the back door, threw a cat in and shut the door. The cat wasn't happy and I don't think they were either.
For all the mischief and teasing, this family loves each other and have always been there when needed. They have modeled faith, fun and what it means to be a family to the generations that follow.
Sorry for your loss, but so glad he's in heaven. Loved the stories....what a fun time of sharing memories!
ReplyDeleteSorry for the loss
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Sad times to lose a loved one...but from your story, the time with him....they had fun. Which is good. The memories will never fade.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your loss...Mari.
ReplyDeleteI've found it to be true, Mari, that after the funeral service when family and friends gather, there are many memories floating about; some can be very funny. I'm sorry for your family, but as you say now he's in heaven and such a blessing that is. May he rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteTaps was difficult to hear at Dad's funeral even though it really is beautiful. I now have his flag.
xoxo
Thanks for sharing the fun stories with us, Mari! As sad as we are when we lose a loved one, it is good to celebrate lives well lived with laughter and memories. What a blessing we will all have one day when we are all reunited!
ReplyDeleteMari, these stories are wonderful. I can imagine there was much laughter in the telling. I have only been to a military funeral once, but it was very moving indeed. I'm sorry for the loss of your uncle.
ReplyDeleteIt is always sad when someone we love leaves this earth, but it is comforting to know we will see them again one day. The happy memories help us at these times.
ReplyDeletePrayers and condolences about your Uncle, Mari.
ReplyDeleteLOve the stories!! That kind of teasing are what family is all about. ;)
Have a great week ahead Sweetie. xoxo
Just love to hear story's about the growing up
ReplyDeletein family's. My grandfather could keeps us laughing
with his story's when he was growing up.
I am sorry for the loss of a great man. I have never been to a military funeral. I would think that it would send chills up my arms. Your dad.....what a character! That cat story is too funny!
ReplyDeleteMy condolences but a full life indeed, and great memories for those left behind to remember him by. xoxo
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry. My condolences to you and your family. It sounds as though he was a great man with a life fully lived and that is a good thing isn't it. Hugs to you. xx
ReplyDelete