Ryan

 

Dad, how can I encapsulate how I feel about you in a few paragraphs? There’s no way to do you justice at all, but I can try to share how I feel to the best of my abilities. 

From my first memories in Blackfoot as a little kid, I remember you laughing and playing with me on the carpet. Your love was there from the start and I never doubted it my whole life. It never had to be earned. It was there always and I’m so grateful for that. Now that I’ve had similar experiences playing with my girls just like you did with me, I’m so glad you gave me that example of spending creative time with me so I could pass it on to my kids!

I remember your support as I started growing in confidence with singing in high school. You were there for every concert and my biggest fan. You were there for my soccer games (even the freezing cold ones). You taught me how to drive a stick shift (that alone requires more patience than I think I’ve ever had). 

You taught me Christlike love and compassion all the time through your example and how you treated others. You have always been so tender with us boys and that has now spread to how wonderful you are with your granddaughters. I went on a mission and stayed out there even when all I wanted to do was give up because I knew that you did it and so I could do it. You taught me to show love to even those I disagreed with. You taught me to not judge others but to show compassion. 

I’ve watched you find love again with Trudy and it brought me so much joy to see you happy. There were some very hard times through those years prior to finding Trudy again, and I can’t imagine how hard it was on you. But I know the Lord has redeemed us and offers His grace to us. 

There were multiple times over the last 10 years when I thought I was going to lose you to illness. When you and mom were both in the hospital at the same time, I pled with the Lord. I was scared I couldn’t survive losing both of you. Losing mom was so hard, but the Lord preserved your life. He knew I needed you through that time. Nate and Sean needed you  Your girls (Christy, Madi, Avery, and Emily) needed you. And you’ve blessed us so much through your recovery.  

I’m so thankful for both you and mom and the amazing team you were with us. I can’t imagine a better childhood than the one I had. I can’t imagine a better dad or grandpa than you and I thank the Lord every moment for you. We have been blessed Dad. 

I love you as much as is possible for a son to love his dad. I love you to overflowing and I know I speak for Nate and Sean when I say that we couldn’t have a better dad. 

Happy 70th birthday!

Love, Ryan