Memorial Service Details...

I haven't written in a while, because things have been busy this week.  I want to highlight a few things for Dad's' memorial service, though.  Despite my earlier comment about the memorial being on Saturday, it will happen Monday, September 6 (Labor Day), at 6:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Davis (click on underlined link for directions).


Dad had written down a few wishes for his memorial service, all of which we plan on honoring.  To assist in your planning, we wanted you to know that one of those requests was that the service lasted no more than one hour!  He wanted to make sure it was as convenient and comfortable for everyone as possible.  Unfortunately, it also means that we can't ask many people to speak.  We have asked a few individuals to speak (briefly) about their experiences with Dad, but we know there are more people who would have appreciated a chance to share.


With that in mind, however, we will be including a sheet of paper in every program that can be filled out with a short anecdote or encouragement for Dad's grandkids when they grow up.  One of the saddest parts of Dad's "early" departure is that the "grandbabies," whom Dad loved so dearly, will not have clear memories of him.  Our hope is that we can compile the stories and messages in a book that our kids will be able to use to remember (or get to know) their beloved Poppy.


Dad's other requests involve how many songs to sing (no more than three), which song to close with ("O Love of God, How Strong and True"), and a few other particulars.


Again, the fact that he had already contemplated these issues speaks volumes about his perspective; he did not pretend that he would live forever, but he lived every day like it could be his last.  It has been such a blessing - emotionally and logistically - as we prepare for the memorial service.


We hope you can join us!