My grandpa found his way to heaven today

 My Grandpa Kenny passed away today.  He was just a few months shy of turning 85.  He lived a good, long life and his body was just tired and worn out.  His family was his greatest accomplishment and we were by his side for the last 5 days waiting for him to find his way to heaven.  The hospital was amazed at all of us that were there.  My dad and his sister's never left the hospital because they couldn't bear to not be just a few steps away from him.  I made it to the hospital this morning just in time.  I didn't see him finally pass, but I was there and I am so glad that I was.  Even though we didn't want to lose him, we were so thankful that Jesus finally came to get him.

 My grandparents just celebrated 59 years of marriage on January 10th.  They were the best role models for all of us when it came to love and marriage.  I loved it when he would reach over and hold her hand.  They were amazing dancers.  People always called them Fred & Ginger.  Grandpa was born in Farmington, New Mexico and grew up in Durango, Colorado.  He claimed to know how to speak Paiute Indian and Pig Latin.  He always had a funny story to tell and would always ask: "Where did you get them apples?"  referring to something that we had.  He called all of us "Little Tunker" and would always try to talk any pregnant child or grandchild into naming their kid "Little Kenny".  My heart breaks because my kids will never know their great grandpa, but we will all keep his memory alive.  He had 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, with one on the way.  He was the oldest of 5 kids and out lived all but one of them.  I know that he is up in heaven right now reuniting with his mom, 2 brothers and 1 sister. 

 He was the only grandpa that I ever knew.  He loved every sport and had lifetime passes to the local high school games.  He was a produce man and was very good at his job.  He was always whittling and made the most amazing birdhouses.  I am lucky enough to have 2 of them.  My dad has taken over the birdhouse making tradition.  I just can't put in to words what an amazing man my grandpa was and I can't even begin to imagine what a hole will be in all of our hearts. 

I am so thankful that I got to spend 30 years of my life with a grandpa like him.  I pray for comfort and peace for my grandma.  She is heart broken and lost without him.  How do you go on living when the person you loved and spent 59 years with is suddenly gone?  I pray that my dad and his sister's are able to continue to live their lives and set the good examples that my grandpa has instilled in them.  I pray that my entire family continues to keep his memory alive.  Rest in Peace Grandpa Kenny.  You are so loved and will be greatly missed.