It was with heavy hearts that we said goodbye to Great-Grampy Jarvis on Sunday. He leaves behind a great legacy of 5 children, 10 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren (sorry if my numbers are off). He was my last living grandparent, and the only great-grandparent who was alive when Jack and Charlotte were born. Here are some pictures of Jack's first visit with Grampy in Vermont when Jack was 8 months old.
And some photos from our recent trip to Vermont at Thanksgiving. I am so glad Grampy got to meet Charlotte and see Jack one more time.
I've thought back these past few days of some memories with Grampy: as a child, following him around on the farm and asking questions about Sam the Ram, feeling bad when we went to Uncle Norman's and Great-Grampy got his hand scratched when trying to grab a bunny for me to pet, staring in fascination at all of his projects in the wood shop, Grammy and Grampy's surprise 50th anniversary party.
Also lots of food memories--those delicious homemade pickles, raiding his freezer to check out the stockpile of Ben&Jerry's, being offered Penny's "dog cookies." During our visit to Vermont when Jack was a baby, Grampy kept trying to sneak Jack some ice cream and I wouldn't let him. And I didn't see this, but knowing Grampy I can picture it clear as day--he was a passionate (and stubborn) gardner to the very end. This summer he became dependant on an oxygen tank, but he rigged up a system to pull the tank along side him so he could still tend to his vegetables.
One of the great blessings of my life has been that my parents remarried into such wonderful families. I never realized until later in life, because I had never experienced differently, that divorced kids aren't always treated well by their step-families. Grampy and Grammy Jarvis (and all my other extended family, on both sides) took me in as their own from day 1. They were the epitome of "good people," and were what we should all strive to be. Grampy lived a simple life, but his love, humor, work ethic, and kindness made it an extraordinary life. We will miss you, Grampy. I hope you are in heaven right now with Grammy enjoying a home-cooked meal.
5 comments:
I'm sorry to hear about his passing. However, I will say that yes, your dad married into a fantastic family...and I'm glad he did because my childhood wouldn't have been the same without you. :)
He was our rock and my number one role model. If I can leave this world having lived life so well, I will have been truly successful. Thank you so much for putting into words what we have all been feeling and thinking.
- Grampy Jarvis
I second what Uncle Jim said. Thanks, Erin. Wonderfully written, you also put in some stuff I'd forgotten about, like Penny's cookies!
Erin, What a wonderful tribute to Dad. He was indeed a wonderful father,grandfather and greatgrandfather. He made us feel that we were very special to him. Thank you for sharing with us your special memories.
Love, Aunt Marti
So sorry to hear about your loss. He sounded like a wonderful man. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Hoping all else is well with you guys. Got to see Jack & Andy at the club the other day. Will loved swimming with Jack! Lets try to meet up soon:)
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