I’m So Proud of You Grandpa!
Grandpa,
While you’ll likely say the exact same thing to me, it’s my turn to say this to you, “I’m so very proud of you.” All of us LaRue’s, a name that is held in high regard in this world, is because of you. I could write a whole book on “How To Be World’s Best Grandpa,” having never been one, because all I’d have to do is write your biography….
Somehow, someway, you’ve managed to give every grandchild in your family something most people don’t get to experience, and that’s what a grandpa should be. You’ve managed to make every one of us feel unique, loved, supported, and often like we were the only person in the room with you with your undivided attention. I can’t recall a single sporting event, choir concert, or ceremony of any kind when you weren’t there to provide your unwavering support of me. I can see you in every major moment in my life, and while you may think that isn’t a big deal, trust me, you’ve been such a big deal for so many people.
Some of the fondest memories of my life were of going fishing and hunting with you. My only complaint is that I always wanted to fish longer than we’d plan to go. I used to think that it was because I liked to fish so much, but now I know the real reason. I just wanted to spend more time with my grandpa. I’m so proud of you for giving me those experiences.
I used to love getting the phone call from 895-4663 and asking me to come over to do chores like mowing the lawn, raking the leaves, or some other miscellaneous chore. I know these were things you could have done yourself, but you gave me the opportunity to help and more importantly, the opportunity to spend more time with you. Now I’m 37 years old, and I gotta admit, I still love seeing that phone number show up on my phone asking me to come over to help with something. I know I’m not the handiest guy in the world, but that time I get to spend with you is pure gold for me. I’m so proud of you for thinking of your grandson to help mold him into a man not overly concerned for his own well-being and to serve others.
All of that above alone would put you in the top echelon of grandfathers to ever walk this planet, but then you took me in and became a father to me for an entire year out of your life. We had our moments, where we butted heads like two dominant bucks will do, but that year could’ve been one of the hardest years of my life, and you made it one of the best years of my life. I’m so lucky to have been able to have such a unique experience as your grandson. I’m so proud of you for how much you went out of your way to lighten the load for me during a difficult time in our family’s life.
I remember the night that my mother passed away. You were the first person to come over to the house, and I remember vividly melting into your arms when you came to give me a hug knowing my mother, and your daughter-in-law, had just passed away. In the good times, and the bad times, you’ve been so consistent in being world’s best grandpa. As the 89 years of your life is winding down, my prayer for you is that you walk bravely, confidently, and with great anticipation of Heaven, where your joints no longer ache, the ducks fly low and fast, the bucks rut all year long, and the smallmouth bite on whatever you’re flinging that day. Please know that we are all proud of you Grandpa Roger, and I’m so proud to be a LaRue because of YOU!
Until Heaven,
Brandon
