I look at the treasure chests that you made for Tyler and Diller, the stepping stools that they made in the woodshop with your caring oversight, the wood turned vase that rests on my desk, the furnace that you helped me fix over the phone so our home would not freeze up on that mid-winter day, the pew bench that you resized so that I can have it fit perfectly in my living room, the old barn shutters that you gave me just because they were so neat, the old door that you made into a headboard for our bed so I could have something special to lean up against to read at night, the electric outlets you installed in our basement (and one perfectly placed for the air hockey table), the doorbell you installed, the place at our table that you always sat in next to mom, the seat that you usually chose in our living room for Christmas morning, and the list could go on and on. You are everywhere and you are missed! See you soon! xo
A FATHER'S LOVE (Written to Gene earlier this year)
Dear Dad,
Mere words cannot express the love I have for you. You have been more of a father to me than my own and have also filled that same role in many other's lives as well.
The honorable man that you are and the kindness you bestow has set the standard far above the norm and has shown me in my years of being widowed what it is I hope to find in a future husband. (You've set the bar high so my search has been quite difficult!) You love fully with your heart and your gentle ways overflow with everything you do. You are an extremely dedicated husband to your wife, a loving father to your children (which far extends beyond your blood relatives). You are a perfect example of what a Christian should be with the fruits of the spirit that you exude: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I absolutely love how you love people, your non-judgemental ways, and the giving spirit you have. You've taught me how to stay focused on God in the midst of everything and have always pointed me to Him, and for that I am eternally thankful.
Your years of hard work and service to our country have earned you the respect and trust that you well deserve. Your worth is far above rubies. The meticulous care and maintenance you have put into your home shows how multi-talented you are and a master of all trades, but it also shows how you love the art and beauty of making things with your own hands. Measure twice, cut once comes to mind as one of the thousands of simple, yet wise, sayings you teach others. You love sharing your knowledge with anyone who has an ear to listen and I just love that about you because it shows you care. You are a selfless reminder and example for us all to try to model in this crazy world. The love of Christ just radiates out of your sweet smile, kind eyes, and handsome face. If ever there was an angel here on earth, you're it or sure, Dad!
Thank you for being who you are, each and every day. I thank God for bringing you into my life through the marriage of your son. In my heart of hearts, you are my dad, even though through "adoptive" means. Through thick and thin, you've been there to guide me and help me see my worth and value as a woman and mother. You've loved and accepted me as your own, and every time the words roll off my lips, I am proud to call you my dad. I love you with all my heart. ❤
I love you with all my heart and soul. I will miss you terribly but you gave me so many memories to make me smile and keep on going. Thank you for being a wonderful father to our children and grandfather to our grandchildren. I will be with you in a twinkle of an eye.
My hugs and kisses always!
