On December 2, 2011, my beloved Grandpa Williams passed away.
Our families came from far and wide,
gathering in Mesa to honor and celebrate the life of a great man.
It was a reunion for many of us.
Maybe a little TOO much reunion, judging by Grandma's expression!
My family!
I finally got to meet my new chunky nephew, Greyson!
I got such a great workout lugging him around!
He is such a sweetheart and is generous with his smiles.
My brothers and dad, looking respectable....for the time being!
The burial service took place on a cool, bright Monday.
We stood together as the site was dedicated and reflected
on the many lessons we'd learned from this great teacher.
Grandpa had chosen his favorite flowers and casket weeks earlier.
I took comfort in knowing that Grandpa,
who'd had such a love of woodworking,
had admired the craftsmanship when he selected it.
He probably ran his hand over the grain gently
and with reverence just like I did when I saw it.
After the service, we rallied the troops for a luncheon at Aunt Lorna's house.
Aunts, uncles, moms, dads, cousins, brothers,
sisters, grandkids, and great-grandkids were
everywhere--Aunt Lorna's house was nearly bursting at the seams.
One of the nights I spent in Mesa involved
a trip to the Mesa Arizona Mormon temple
to see the Christmas lights with the family.
My parents were married here, oh, 30+ years ago!
At the memorial service, all the grandsons wore a tie from Grandpa's collection.
It was a really cool moment when the boys came together.
I heard so many new stories about my grandpa during this trip--
about his tap-dancing, his love of airplanes and flying, service in the National Guard,
adventures on the farm in Idaho, working as a baker at the age of 12,
and when he fell in love with my grandma all those years ago.
A handsome fellow!
I discovered that he had written a personal history several years ago,
and when I returned home, my mom sent me a copy
so that I could read in his own words the simple
and yet rich recollections of a life lived over seven decades.
I have stored up countless memories
of his enriching influence, laughter, and love.
How grateful I am to have these memories
to sustain me during the moments when his absence is especially felt.
