Sunday, January 27, 2013

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.

14 comments:

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry for your loss, he sounds like he was an amazing grandpa. Keeping you in my prayers.

Donna said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of your sweet Grandpa, Trisha. He sounds like an amazing man. I'm so glad you have so many good and precious memories of him. My parents were married 61 years when my dad passed away. It was unbelievably hard for all of us, but most of all my mom. Thankfully faith helps get us thru these tough times. Sending you extra big hugs, and I'll be praying that the Lord comforts you and your family.

Julie Marie said...

Prayers for all of you sweetie... your Grandpa Kenny is an amazing man... I say "is" because he still is your sweet grandpa... just in Heaven now, but with you always... close by in your heart... xoxo Julie Marie

Geneva said...

I'm so sorry for your loss...it's never easy. You and your family will be in my prayers ... Psalm 34:18

NanaDiana said...

Oh-Trisha. I am so sorry, honey. I know it was time to go but it doesn't make missing him any easier. What wonderful memories you have of this dear man. I'll be he is up there right now dancing with the angels- xo Diana

Mari said...

Awww I'm soooo sorry for your great lost, I'm sure our Lord is happy to have him home by his side...

Hugs~
Mari

Tara said...

You have wonderful memories to keep your Grandpa near. My sympathies to you but rest knowing he is now watching down over you.xx

Donna Heber said...

Hi Trisha,

I'm so sorry to hear about your grandfather. Please accept my condolences. That is a beautiful photo you have of him at your wedding.

Suzanne said...

Sweet Trisha,
Your Grandpa sounds like a wonderful, precious man who was a blessing to those in his life. I thought your story of his final days were so special. They brought tears to my eyes as it reminded me of my own dad whose body gave out and who was welcomed home into the arms of Jesus a year ago. Your Grandpa's in good company and will always be a special part of your heart:)
Sending you the warmest of hugs and condolences.
xoxo
Suzanne

June said...

Oh I love this post Trish! You write with so much love for this special man in your life. He was blessed to have such a beautiful granddaughter.
I was so happy to read about what kind of a man he was and that you are all so close as a family. That is what life is all about.
sending hugs...

Unknown said...

So sorry for your loss my dear friend! I remember when my Grandpa passed away and it was hard... I will pray for you and your family.

Hugs,

Red Rose Alley said...

Oh Trisha, this a beautiful and heartwarming story about your Grandpa. I loved reading about him and his skills in making bird houses. It is so special to hear he was married to your Grandma for so many years. He sounds like such a patient, funny, and wonderful man. He will always be in your heart. I am thinking of you today, and I love how you said he is with Jesus now because that is the sweetest part of this dear man's life.
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

Ivy and Elephants said...

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Your grandpa sounds like a very amazing man that touched many lives.
Our prayers are with you.
Hugs,
Patti

Anonymous said...

So sorry for your loss....he will be in your hearts forever, for he is a part of who you are.


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