It's been another interesting morning today. I learned late last night that my Uncle Rodney had passed away. He's been fighting the aftermath of open heart surgery and some congestive heart issues. He has been preceded in death by many other immediate and extended family members. I really hate watching family members have to suffer from health issues when they get older, especially in the final days and hours of their lives. It makes me really appreciate each day that I’m granted to live and try to make a difference.
Uncle Rodney passed away at the hospital surrounded by his family who loved him dearly. Mine and Holly's best thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Verla, Mary and her family, Gayle and her family and Carolee and her family not only today, but in the weeks and months ahead. We love you guys, and are so saddened for the loss of your Dad.
I have so many fun memories of Uncle Rodney, particularly at the many family summer parties and holiday parties, him being “King” of the BBQ. His love for the outdoors, camping and scouting have all benefited the broader family collectively with experiences we might not have had otherwise. I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of familial ties, our ancestors, our memories and traditions you develop due to your experiences with your immediate and extended families, and carrying these on to the younger generations. As well as the importance of temple worship and genealogy work in our lives. Earthly and eternal family relationships are the most important thing one could ever hope for in this life.
Since Mom died in 2006, we’ve also lost Aunt Steph, Uncle Bill, Uncle Mike and now Uncle Rodney. In my 30s, I’m starting to realize that I’m becoming the oldest generation which is a surreal feeling. Due in part mainly to parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles passing away. I need to ensure that I live my life to make in impact on my family, my religious community, my general community and neighbors alike.
5 comments:
I never knew this uncle, which seems to be the story a lot. I guess that is what happens when you have over 20 aunts and uncles. I have heard the stories about him however, and am sad to hear he has passed on. His family is in my prayers.
I am so sorry to hear this news. He sounds like a remarkable person.
Hey! So sorry to hear about your loss. I can relate to the sensation of being the new torch-carrier for the family. Sometimes I wonder if I'm up to the challenge of maintaining the legacy of the generation in front of me. . . .
it's been rough few years for you family. thanks for keeping the path of life in perspective.
They're all waiting on the other side. We must live well and serve often to make them proud of us as their family. I wish I could remember that more of the time, if I remembered that my Grams and my Mom could see me being a dork maybe I'd act better. I mean the Lord knows the beginning from the end and the Savior has already taken lumps for me but knowing that family can look in on me just adds to the need to act right.
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