On Saturday, January 31, my father-in-law, Ray, passed away. He was 84 at the time. We just want to thank all of you for your thoughts, prayers, cards, plants, flowers and food. We are so truly blessed to have so many people near us that care so much. Thank you.
Ray was an amazing man who was extremely proud of his family. He loved everyone so much. He was prouder of his kids' and grandkids' achievements than his own. This is amazing to me because his own father was a jerk. So much so that Ray left home at 15.
He had a tough upbringing. He basically raised his younger sister, Hazel. Ray only had an 8th grade education, but was one of the smartest people I have met. He was extremely well read and "educated" on so many subjects.
Ray welcomed me into his family immediately. He was extremely loving to everyone. You hardly heard him say a bad thing about anyone. He loved our girls immensely and I am so glad he got to meet all 3 of them. Rylan was only around him twice, but we have a ton of pictures to show her some day.
Russ loved and admired his dad as much as anyone could. He looked up to him for his kindness, his intelligence and his love. Even though Russ was a late in life baby (his 4 siblings are 18-22 years older than him) Ray told me he got so much enjoyment out of going to Russ' games and raising such a good kid. In fact, at Christmas when we were home, Ray and I were sitting in the car when Russ ran into a store and Ray told me how proud he was of Russ. He said he knew he hadn't said it much, but he couldn't be any prouder of him for who he is and what he has done with his life. I thanked Ray for raising such an amazing man.
Ray was a Christian, so I know we'll see him again someday. Until then, I know he'll be having a good time on the beautiful golf courses in Heaven. :)
The girls loved it when Grandpa drove them around the farm on his golf cart.
Ray was always so good to play cards or read to the girls.
One of Maddie's favorite things to do with Grandpa was to read the comics.
Ray and Inez with our girls and 4 of their 7 great-grandchildren.
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4 comments:
My grandfather recently passed away, and I put together a slideshow for the service. Isn't it amazing how priceless these photos become?
We're praying for you and your family for the loss. It is great to read Ray's story and see the pictures.
Mitzi and I have been praying for you guys. We are sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing stories and pictures of Ray.
Thanks for sharing!!
I am so sorry to hear aboout your loss! My love goes out to you guys! I love how she is looking up at him in the last photo!
Harp
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