Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Good-Bye, Grandpa

Grandpa Turley, (my mom's dad) died early yesterday morning. After his heart attack a few weeks ago, everything went down hill. He needed corrective heart surgery, but was never well enough to get it. Eventually they determined that there was no way he could live through such an invasive surgery, and no way he could live without it.
So Grandma took him home and had hospice come help. My mom and a sibling or two also headed out to Missouri to help.
The last few weeks of Grandpa's life were in pain and discomfort. But it was gradual enough that we could all say our goodbyes.
Grandpa was all good. I used to wonder why he wasn't called to be an apostle or something. He left behind his beautiful wife, 13 kids, 12 kids-in-law, 66 grandchildren, 14 (I think) grandkids-in-law, 18 great-grandchildren with 3 more on the way. And grandpa loved all of us. In fact, we he kind of made us all feel like his favorite. I don't know how he managed that with so many, but he did. I doubt there was ever anybody that didn't like my grandpa.
He was extremely faithful. One of the things he often said was, "when in doubt, leave it out." That in regards to good vs. bad. He was a true disciple of the Lord. When he felt promptings of the spirit, he acted on them, even if that meant packing up his family and moving them across country without a sure job or home.
I didn't get to see him very often in the past 13 years or so, but I love him and will miss him.

Thursday we are going to drive out to Missouri for the funeral on Saturday. We were planning on going up to Idaho for my brothers mission farewell, but the funeral takes precedence, so Jason won't actually get a farewell.

This is my grandpa, Arthur Turley, (direct descendant of Theodore Turley in church history) just before he married. He's so handsome! Like, dashing. He passed that on to many a son and grandson.
This was taken in 2006. I was pregnant with Morgan. Despite the awkward placement of my arms, I do love my grandparents!

9 comments:

A*Waite said...

Sorry to hear about the loss of your wonderful Grandfather. You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers. Travel Safe!

Arianne said...

So sorry about your Grandpa, have a safe trip.

Lora Dawn said...

Wonderful tribute to someone your hold dear. Be safe.

Shelly said...

I love the despite the awkward placement. So funny. He really was dashing! I really wish I could have met him, I have only heard really good things!

Kevin Nelson said...

Melanie, I'm so sorry for your sadness and yet happy for your grandpa.A valiant man here will continue to be valiant and will continue to work for the good of his family. I know he and your grandma will be in your prayers. But please also know that you will be in his.

There are only two things we take with us when we leave: the things we know and have learned, and the covenant relationships we have entered into and have nourished.

Your thoughts about your grandpa attest to the stature of the man he is. Drive safely. You will be in our prayers.

Dad Nelson

Rachel said...

Sorry to hear about your grandpa. Funny... Todd's grandpa just passed away Monday morning as well. They will be missed!

Pennie said...

Sorry to hear about your loss - my dad passed away two weeks ago, so I can totally relate - he was a real hero to me, too. The pain is still so fresh, so real...but, there's so much he's taught me and so much that will live on through me.
I will remember you and your family in my prayers. :)
www.sammysblogmoms.blogspot.com

angela said...

Now I understand your comment on Facebook. Yes, what a nice tribute to one who made you feel so special. Have a safe trip and enjoy the time with your family.

Sara said...

Sorry to hear about your grandpa. Take care and have a safe trip.