Dad was born, lived his entire life and died within a few miles of his home place and lies at rest in Visitation Cemetery, where his parents, grandparents, and great grandparents are buried. Dad lived a full and productive life. He lived to see his children grown and most of his grandchildren born. We can only hope we were good students and learned the many lessons he taught us by his example. 

He said, "It's sure hell to get old" and always wanted to "go out like a light." Papa did nap in his chair and watch TV in his later years ("Wheel of Fortune" was a favorite), but he also found time to graft trees and putter in the garden ("Oh hell, baby, that's not puttering, that's work!") He fulfilled a lifelong dream by going to Alaska in 1989 with Uncle Bud, and he continued to enjoy hunting and fishing.

He got a final wish when he went 
mid-stride while deer hunting with Kevin on Monday, November 26, 1990, on land above Kevin's home in Gales Creek. It was a massive heart attack, and Dad went quickly, with his boots on. Dad always said he wanted to go while hunting, with just enough warning to lay his rifle down carefully. He didn't get that warning. He fell on top of the rifle, breaking it.

We are thankful for all he gave us, and we wish him well. ("If you would, please.")