We like to call him Grandpa because he is grandpa to so many. He has led an exemplary life and we honor him for his goodness. He has a great posterity of about 120 decedents. He is father to 9, grandfather to 40 and great-grand father to something like 60+ with more on the way.
Grandpa served in World War II, and is a college graduate from an era where not many men were able to go to college.
He worked hard all his life to care for his large family. When times were lean he planted and tended a vast garden to help provide food for his family.
Grandpa has spent long hours in service for our church, often traveling Internationally. We added up that he has lived in Brazil for a total of 15 years on church assignments. He has been a General Authority, and at age 81 was the oldest man called to serve as a Temple President.
Around 100 of his descendants were able to meet together yesterday to honor his life. Because of our large numbers, other family members, including his siblings and friends will have another party at a later date.
A big thank you to Mr. Cactus' brother Wayne, and his wife Janet who planned the party, complete with a catered meal that was generously hosted at their home.
Grandpa reminisced the years with his children and how much we all miss Grandma who is now gone.
He talked about his frustration in dealing with his current lung disease. Grandpa hates having to wear an oxygen tank. He said "I just wish I could live without that darn oxygen!" To which his son Scott piped up "We all have to have oxygen dad!"
This is a happy family, and we did a lot of laughing and teasing yesterday.
Scott (Mr. Cactus' twin brother) and another brother Gary.
There are 6 boys in this family.
We looked at family albums of the growing up years.
We looked at family albums of the growing up years.
The party lasted all day. First we all went over to Scott's house and swam in his pool.
Papa (Mr. Cactus) and our grandson Isaak.
Amy, Paul, Aubrey
I was especially happy that 3 of my 5 children were able to attend. Amy (with family) and Aubrey flew in from Phoenix. Our son Scott lives in Brooklyn, New York, and couldn't come. Our daughter Elizabeth lives in town, but came down with flu and was so sad to miss the event.
Amy and our son-in-law Dano.
Our grandson Noah who at 17 months was busy, busy, busy.
We were so happy to be able to kiss on our grandsons.
Grandpa with Amy and Aubrey
Mr. Cactus with his dad.
We told Grandpa to take good care of himself because we all plan on meeting up in 10 years for his 100th Birthday.
10 comments:
Nedra: I'm so glad you were all able to come and celebrate him this way. It looks like a lovely party and I know it meant a lot to him. I also know how much you love to have your children with you, so I'm so glad so many could come. Can't wait for our getaway! Hugs
Oh Wow, what a wonderful day and a wonderful family, he must be so proud at 90 years to see the fabulous people that surround him. I'm glad you had a great day xo
I have been reading your blog for a while and enjoy it so much. Your family is first and I feel so happy to ready about them. I also learn from your quilting. Thanks for being a wonderful blogger. Hugs, Marie
What a wonderful celebration. 90 is certainly a milestone especially serving in WWII. We just celebrated my father's 90th in July and he served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. It's a miracle he survived 3 wars! I told my dad I already had the dress picked out for his 100th birthday party.
Happy Birthday to your dear FIL. I am so jealous of such large families. How wonderful you could be together on such a day!
WONDERFUL FAMILY.
Very sweet post. :)
HOW NEAT. Seriously.
What a wonderful life he has lived up to this point. 90 Years! Wow! That is so great. I'm sure that was very special for him to have all of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren there to help him celebrate. Thanks for sharing all of the great pictures too. I felt like I was there.
Thanks for sharing your photos! It was a great event because everyone that was able came! So thank you for you and your family's support! Love, Mr. Cactus' Sister in Law!
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