Beech Tree News Network

My maternal grandparents had a great influence on my life. They actively grand parented my siblings and me. My grandfather lived from May 29, 1901, to August 12, 1987. Though he’s been gone 25 years, his life continues to impact mine.

My granddad taught me many lessons. He taught me to work hard and then to take a break. He taught me not to leave a person totally by himself when working with farm or heavy equipment. He taught me to enjoy community softball and baseball games. And, he taught me the lessons below:

•    Importance of Family – I remember my granddad showing up unexpectedly and fairly often at my parents’ home. He would sit down on a step of the stairway that led from the kitchen to the upstairs. He never stayed long. Most likely, he was checking on his only daughter – my mother. When my granddad was older and my dad or my brothers were planting or harvesting a crop, my granddad would drive his pickup truck over to watch them work in the field. He was concerned for their safety. My grandparents were willing to help their children and grandchildren with their presence, their labor, and their money. My granddad worked through the Great Depression and for the remainder of his life to ensure the wellbeing of his family.
•     Invest in the Future – My granddad worked so that my grandmother could go to college. She taught elementary school until she retired. The lived modestly and raised two children. They owned their home as well as two farms. Both of my grandparents were frugal, but willing to help others in need, especially extended family.
•    Patience – My granddad had patience. For as long as he was able, he enjoyed having a well-kept yard. His shrubbery was trimmed, his lawn was mowed, and his other plants were tended. He even had a strawberry patch. When I was small, my granddad was the only fisherman I knew. And, he had the patience to catch enough fish for a meal. For many years, my granddad drove a school bus. I don’t recall him getting angry with the students who rode his bus or with his grandchildren; I recall that, when merited, he could use a stern voice. And, I remember him making funny faces to entertain my own small children – his great grandchildren.
•    Work for Good – My granddad worked for good. He attended church regularly and was a deacon in his church. He was a good, moral man. His 18-year-old granddaughter had not been attending church services as regularly as he wanted, so he asked the minister to visit her. That young minister did visit me and eventually became my husband.

My grandfather’s life was a great blessing and the lessons he taught me continue to influence my choices. I am thankful for such a grandparent.