Sweet Grumpy James

Yesterday morning, my grandpa passed away. When my mom told me the news over the phone, I was heartbroken, but I also felt a strange sense of relief. I know that might sound terrible, but Grumpy endured incredible physical pain throughout his life. He spent more time in the hospital than anyone else I know, and it comforts me to know that he's not in pain anymore. As a kid I used to cry just thinking about how I knew Grumpy would have to die someday. And I feel extremely lucky to have been able to spend so much time with him over the years, despite rarely living in the same city.

Here is a page from my journal in grade two:

Ok, it's not the most flattering depiction (though the man really did have an impressive head of hair), but notice the the huge smile, and the faint outline of an angel from the other side of the page. It seems oddly fitting in the wake of yesterday's events. This journal entry seems a little silly, but it's also evidence that my Grandpa was always in my thoughts.

This is probably my fourth or fifth attempt to write about this (not even including my previous post) but the tone just hasn't seemed right-- it hasn't properly conveyed how sad I am. I guess it's just that Grumpy lived a wonderful life, and died surrounded by people that loved him. And I think that's worth celebrating.

He was a beacon of strength and kindness, and even among his 7 kids, 22 grandkids, and a rapidly growing number of great-grandkids, he always made me feel individually loved. For those of you who didn't, I really wish you could have known him. I miss you so much already Grandpa.

With Sweet Baby James, 2005

Grumpy helping with the flooring-- could he have gotten any cuter!?

My cousin Katie wrote a very moving tribute to our grandpa on her blog. If you would like to read it, you can see it here. ♥