Grandpa's Passing

The summer of emanate drama continues as we were recently dealt a low blow, not one that we weren't expecting, but one that still gave us that empty sinking feeling in the pit of our stomachs. Matt's Mom had called to let us know that Matt's Grandpa Jones passed away during the middle of the night. As much as it was a blessing, since in the past week he went down hill becoming gravely ill, we were still very saddened that his life was over. No more sweet laughs when Colin would do or say something funny or Saturday afternoon lunch of burgers and frosty's at Wendy's. He was such a good man, one that would immediately befriend you and shower you with great tales from both past and present.

Battling multiple myaloma for the last few years had taken it's toll, but Grandpa fought hard to keep active right up to the last few weeks of his life. Even after being offered hospice care and morphine, he did not want to leave this world still insisting that he not lie in bed all day. Despite that he had lived a full rich life, watched 3 great grandchildren grow up even seein one of them graduate high school, and knew his loving wife was impatiently waiting for him at the pearly gates, he stubbornly held on. His amazing zest for life and positive nature at 87 is a trait I long to have at 37.

Colin has done very well in accepting Grandpa's passing, possibly because we've been preparing him for this, but more likely it's due to his well grounded personality. For Matt, on the other hand, it hasn't been easy. Grandpa's death has hit him hard. Despite Matt living across the country, he and his Grandpa were very close, looking up to him as a role model in selflessness and humility. It also didn't help matters any that we just returned from his paternal grandmother's funeral in Kentucky in June. Now, like me, Matt has no grandparents left, one of those sobering and scary crossroads we come to in life.

Grandpa's Memorial - Tahoma National Cemetery Wednesday, August 15th, 2007

Since Grandpa served in the Army and fought in World War II, he was entitled to a memorial placard and military funeral service at Tahoma National Cemetery. This service was extremely memorable and quite moving reminding me of the importance of honoring all those who served our country regardless of politics and opinion. At the service they had three members of the VFW officiate and I was taken back by their inclusion of Gramps as a fellow comrade and their insistence of not forgetting the sacrifice he made.

Half way through the 30 minute ceremony, a 4 member color guard from the US Army folded the flag while the ever emotional Taps was played and then one of the guards presented it to Diana. A 21 gun salute was performed where 7 retired veterans shot 3 times, and we all got to keep a spent shell as a souvenir. The noise from the guns made me jump a mile high. I don't think I've ever been that close to riffles being fired. Fortunately, they prepared us in advance, so we could cover our ears if necessary.

Colin handled the service exceptionally well, not even doing his anxious breathing once. He came up with the idea to wear his Cub Scout uniform in order to honor Grandpa as a veteran. It was an incredibly heartwarming gesture and he looked absolutely handsome, enough to make his momma and his papa very proud indeed. I think everyone else who attended was just as impressed.

What a wonderful way to tribute such a beautiful person. I'm so glad the family was able to do this for Grandpa and it will be so nice to visit his memorial here, even though his ashes are to be buried by Grandma in Ohio. We will also be able to attend the special programs they have at the cemetery for both Veteran's Day and Memorial Day, and it will now have special meaning for us. Godspeed, Grandpa Jones! We love you!