A Great Man

On Saturday our family lost an essential member. My Grandpa Bud finally lost his battle against ALS. I am told he died peacefully and was surrounded by love and family members. It has been very difficult to be in Namibia this past week. I wish I could be there to provide support for everyone at home and share stories and memories of a wonderful man. Instead, I am going to share my most poignant memories here.

Grandpa Bud was a truly wonderful man. His greatest joy in life came from meeting and interacting with people. He loved everyone for themselves and conversation with him always came naturally. Thankfully, his passion for people lives on in my sister. Grandpa knew someone wherever you went and he genuinely cared for them.

As kids we were always so excited when we would get a call at 9pm telling us Grandpa and Jody were on their way over. We knew it meant Krispy Kreams and a delayed bed time. The visits were never scheduled and that's what made them so special! It was always wonderful to watch Brian and Grandpa interact with each other. When Brian was going through his shy stage (OK, his entire childhood) Grandpa could always get him to talk and to laugh. I believe its because they shared the same level of humor; Grandpa was a perpetual little boy.

One of the things I loved most about Grandpa was his chuckle when he knew he was being silly and acting like a kid. He truly enjoyed life. I always knew if I could count on Grandpa to believe in me and my dreams. He always supported my decision to study at Beloit and to come to Namibia this fall. Grandpa would tell me to go for it and that he knew I could do anything. He constantly told me how proud of me he was for my determination and independent spirit.

This past March I was lucky enough to spend a week with Grandpa in Tucson during spring training. The entire trip was incredible! We had wonderful conversations and we were able to share memories and my dreams for the future. I was given the opportunity to know my Grandpa as an adult. It will remain one of my most treasured memories.

There are so many more memories I would love to share and stories I would love to hear. We lost an incredible man this week! He loved his family more than anything and kept us entertained with wonderful stories and surrounded by love. I wish I could be there on Friday to celebrate this incredible man with you. My love goes out to all of you and please know I am keeping you in my heart.

I would also like to thank Jody for the incredible love and care she gave to Grandpa. Their love should be an inspiration to us all. I feel honored to have witnessed the love, devotion, and respect they had for each other. It was such a relief to know that Grandpa was receiving the best care in the world. I love you very much!

I will write more this week about seeing the Namib Desert and kayaking with seals and dolphins!! Until then know that I am thinking of everyone at home and sending all my love back to Colorado!