My paternal Grandfather passed away today. He was 94 years and 9 weeks old and celebrated his 70th wedding anniversary yesterday with his wife, Edna. When I was a kid, I thought he was one of the funniest people in the world. His mother was Irish, and there was a bit of that lilt to his speech. His thoughts often streamed out in little ditties and songs. (Picture left, 1918)
He attended Colorado Agricultural College and the School of Veterinary medicine in Ft. Collins, Colorado. (Picture right, 1934)
He was the only person I have ever known with false teeth- quite a curiosity as a child. His hobbies included gardening, golf, woodworking and carpentry- to which he lost the top half of several fingers, but it never phased him. He made hundreds of wonderful painted wooden cars which he donated to the children at the local hospital in Oregon. (Picture left, picking grapes with me in 1975)
He completed the daily crossword puzzle in the newspaper for years and years. His memory was impeccable and his knowledge encyclopedic... at least until Alzheimer's set in a few years back. As a grandfather, he was lots of fun. We will miss him greatly. (Picture right, 1996)
5 comments:
Great pictures and remembrances, Maren. He had funny sayings, like "by crackey, Gram" and seemed to have a nickname for everyone and everything. He grew beautiful fruit trees and gardens. His workshop out back was a place of wonder. He also made wooden whirligigs, and built us an amazing (sturdy, HEAVY!) dollhouse complete with furniture, individual shingles, and tiny clapboard siding.
I think we're really fortunate to have known him for so long and not just as children. I love the picture of you and he at the grapevine. He sure loved all of us grandkids a lot and showed it.
I always liked the funny pet names he had for Grandma. My Frau, Mrs. Youncey, etc.
I'm so sorry to hear that he passed away! He sounds like a wonderful, wonderful man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
This is a beautiful tribute. We are thinking of you.
Awww...look at little Maren
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