Pop. Thank you for showing me the real by example. In a different day, you had to do what you had to do. Even then you would contribute to my soon awakening fondness and gratitude, hell let's call it as it is..... heroism even of being ensnared in Vietnam. Your broken body unnerved you and provided you with a constant exit however I never found you on that ramp. In every conversation it was forward into what you can do to aid in the salvation or understanding of others. Your personal issues aside always. You were always in prayer for others and I can say that those conversations with our lord and savior pulled me personally back from my end time and gave me continued comfort with my family. For this I love you and am forever grateful. I am sad that you had to earthly depart from so many friends and family however for those who truly know you, they are caught up in the bliss knowing that you are amongst those in our family that have left before us. Please look for and grasp the hand of my little grandson Evan and wrap your arms around the neck of your mother...my grandmother. Let everyone know that the time of Jesus is at hand. I will enter into these times knowing you are awaiting me pops just on the other side. Know you are loved and celebrated by the "southern clan" and our hearts will forever feel your vacancy here on earth. Who do I call now pops? Who fills that conversation....So I will turn to prayer.