Angel posted a condolence
Thursday, August 6, 2020
Wayne, I am going to write this tribute with the thoughts that are in my heart as if I am sending it straight to you because I know you are reading this. First of all, thank you for giving me the greatest gift I could ever receive, your son, John, and, ultimately, my family. So many of John‘s talents and strengths he received from you: his computer skills, his logical brain, his love of football, his bowling prowess, his humor (unfortunately), his quick temper (OK, I guess I’m not so thankful for that part!), his love of ice cream and of Oreos and milk, his enjoyment of fishing and nature, and, of course, his faith in Christ. It has been thrilling to discover these attributes in John and then again in your grandchildren. I won’t even begrudge you the fact that, so far, none of them have picked up your musical talents, but, obviously, Don was gifted with that! Thank you, also, for teaching me the sport of football. If you remember, I first got to know you when you and John would invite me over to watch the Chiefs games. That was back in the day of Joe Montana and Marcus Allen. Not only did I learn the rules and strategy of the game, but I also learned that referees, for some reason, knew nothing of the rules nor the strategy, and, if you and John yelled loudly enough in unison, the referees might be able to hear you through the television screen, even more so if you threw something at them! How special it was to be able to watch the Chiefs win the Super Bowl this year with you, John, and Don. (This time, it seemed like the other team’s fans were likely yelling and throwing stuff at the referees). Thanks for your love of life and for letting us tag along for the ride. I’ve tried to describe to family members and friends what it was like to go visit you at the lake. It seemed like nonstop decadence and splurging: boat rides on the lake, breakfasts and lunches at restaurants, trips to Miner Mike’s, mini golf and go-karts, fishing and swimming, settling in at the condo in the evenings, and always a trip to Randy‘s. I’ll never forget how, when we were riding in the boat, you would ask John if he wanted to take the helm. Being, cautious, he would always decline. But, you always knew you could talk me into it, at least for a little while, until I got nervous. You never let me live down how I took off with Julie on the Sea-Doo at 60 miles per hour, throwing all caution to the wind (with your daughter in tow, even!). Thank you for being a grandpa to my children. My own dad was never able to hold, cuddle, kiss, or hug my children, so it was extra special for me to see you love on them. During the past year of your life, I was so very blessed and privileged to be able to care for you using my skills and knowledge as a physician. Thank you so much for letting me into your life in that way. Thank you for your, sometimes, blind trust in me (“Whatever you think is best, Angel. I trust you.”). My love for you has grown exponentially as I witnessed you fight for your strength, your health, your life, but all the while trusting that the Lord’s will would be done. Finally, thank you for the gift of your last interaction with me. When I start to feel sad or troubled that you are gone, I only need to remember how I asked you if you were ok minutes before you took your last breath. You opened your eyes to look at me and nodded “yes.” I know you are ok. And I know you will be remembered with love.
