My Dad...

It has been a long time since I have been able to post anything...my last post was during a snow storm...today the humidity is so bad that I walked out to take a photo last night...and my camera fogged up immediately...making for a neat picture though.

If you have been following along on this blog...you know that my parents have both been doing badly, and I have spent a lot of time going back and forth. I wanted to let you know that my dad did pass away...one month ago today.  I was able to spend the last several days with him...and was there for his last breath...and then have been able to spend much time with my mom since. Which has been a blessing for me!

This eulogy, written about him...captures him so well...I wanted to share here on my blog.

1923-2014

There are many traits one could draw upon to describe Eugene, but the one that HE would probably pick and would want to be most known for go back to his roots as a simple "farm boy." Born and raised in the rural heartland of Arkansas, it is there that Eugene learned the definition of a "hard day's work,"…and formed the ethics that would follow him throughout life. With all his hard work and the responsibilities of the family farm, it wasn't until later in life that he would meet and marry his beloved, Mary, his bride of 62 years. They shared their vows in 1952 and would go on to build a home together, raise a family, and grow deeper in love with each passing day. It was just prior to that momentous event that Eugene followed Mary and her family as they trekked northward to Michigan in search of work in the automotive world. Eugene, too, would eventually land a position with General Motors where he extended the utmost in dedicated and loyal service for over 30 years until his retirement.

When he wasn't working, some of Eugene's favorite pastimes often involved enjoying a sunny day on the golf course,…perhaps the combination of friendship & fun at the bowling alley,…or a rousing game of cards, with his mastery being that of Pinochle and Rook. And though he didn't do it often, deep within this man resided the heart of a dancer. He could cut-a-rug with the best of them, and was smooth on his feet.

But to those who knew Eugene well, they'll happily attest to his most devout pastime being what he produced through his skills in gardening. The old adage states; "You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy,"…and this couldn't have been more true or applicable than in the man he was in his garden at home. He may have traded a plow for a hoe, but the end result showed his talents for the farm boy within. Whether for his vegetables or the gorgeous flowers he nurtured, his family and neighbors were the wonderful benefactors of a yard that he poured his heart and soul into,…and it showed. Perhaps most beautiful are his pride & joy, the rose bushes that adorn the rear of his yard which have multiplied into something worthy of a spread in House & Garden magazine.

Yet of all the aforementioned traits, perhaps most notable and revered would have to be the Christian principles he adhered to and the devout faith that guided his life. He was the spiritual leader of his family and brought them up in the path of Godliness. He was devoted to his church, and many will forever remember him for his place in the choir. His faith kept him grounded, and it also produced a man that many had come to know and love. To quote his family, "he knew everybody, and everybody knew him,…and he never met a stranger." Perhaps it's because he was always happy, always sharing a joke or two, or telling one of the countless stories that all had come to enjoy. Whatever the case, there's no doubting that Eugene made a huge impact on a lot of hearts and lives, and truly did his part in fulfilling the Great Commission.

And this was never more evident than through his place at home. He was considered a great provider for his family, and nurtured the bonds of love with humility and reverence. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will forever be remembered for the example he set, the faith he lived out, and the blessing God made him to be. From the beauty of his yard to the beauty in his soul, to God be the glory. He will truly be missed,…and loved. Go Rest High, Dear Brother.