Friday, August 22, 2008

Patterson Family Affair

On Monday, July 21, 2008, Casey's Grandpa Apperson passed away. Lloyd Apperson was 89 years old and though I only knew him a short time, I quickly gained a respect and deep love for him. He was a WWII Veteran who cherished his faith, his family, and his music. And I am proud to be a part of his legacy.

I remember the first time I met Grandpa Apperson. We drove over to the Veteran's hospital where he was living to see him. As I walked into Grandpa Apperson's room and he embraced me for the first time, I felt like I had known him forever. He was so special to me, the instant I saw his smiling face. I just knew he was my grandpa, and I could feel his love for Casey and I. We sang, talked, laughed, cried, and visited. He played the guitar and mandolin for us, always with a smile on his face. I will cherish the time we spent with him, and I am fortunate to have great memories of him to pass onto my children.
The funeral was very healing and inspiring as we joined together to remember a great man. After the funeral we all gathered at the Patterson's house to celebrate his legacy of music and family. Good times! Grandma Apperson is such a courageous, kind, fun, and selfless woman who just loves her family to pieces. It was so great to watch her happiness, despite the loneliness she felt, at having her family gather around her and lift her spirits up.











1 comment:

Lindsy Hartsock said...

haha I remember that very well. I think I remember Erica saying that too. Seriously the whole childbearing this takes a huge toll on your body, but it is worth it. I have a whole new appreciation for moms with lots of kids for sure. I am so glad we are back in UT. I'm excited to see Kimmie this weekend and watch the girls play. Real weird to just be sitting in the stands, but it will still be fun to see them.