04/28/2025
This past Saturday we said our final goodbyes to my sweet Papa. In 1985, my Papa suffered a massive brain aneurysm that affected the left hemisphere of his brain, paralyzing his right side and impacting his speech- I was just one month old. Doctors gave Papa eight months to live, and I turned 40 years old back in December. I will forever cherish the 40 years we shared together.
At the burial ceremony, it was heartwarming to hear stories about how Papa fell in love with Nana, his days as an aviator in the Navy, and his role as a wonderful husband, father, and uncle. My greatest memories will always be of him as a fantastic grandfather.
Papa loved his grandkids so much and was always around for my shenanigans. I'm just guessing, but I think it's safe to say that out of all the grandkids, I probably kept Papa on his toes the most! From falling into the lake during our family reunion, sliding my bike into their mesquite bushes, smashing my hand in their car door, and the biggest secret Papa and I kept from my parents was when I fell off their telephone pole (around roof level) at Nana and Papa's house 🤣🙈🤷♀️
With limited mobility and speech, Papa was a living example of what its like to endure and persevere through life's obstacles. No matter the situation, he was always there to greet you with his warm smile, bright blue eyes, and a big hug. Thank you, Papa, for all the memories we've shared over the years. You were a pretty cool Dude ❤️
