Dear Family and Loved Ones,
I am writing from Woods Cross, Utah. Shelly, Ben, Mari and I returned to Utah one week ago today after receiving word that my Dad had taken a turn for the worse. We were able to say good-bye before he slipped into a coma. Wednesday, June 27th, 2012 he passed away very peacefully surrounded by his family.
Ted has kept the mission running smoothly.Zone Conferences were held Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of last week. Everything went great.Our missionaries were able to meet our new mission nurse. I am amazed at the timing of her arrival. My phone has been nearly silent while we have been here with family during this sacred time. The Lord prepared someone to be in my place months in advance to take care of the medical needs in our mission. What a blessing and a miracle! Ted also attended three of the many baptisms held over this past weekend. Each was special and well attended by the ward members.
Following my Dad's passing on Wednesday the family made all the necessary preparations to celebrate his amazing life. Everything really fell into place beautifully. Last night we greeted his many friends and family members at a viewing. Many people waited for up to two hours in line. We were there from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - I know my Dad felt embarrassed, he doesn't like being the center of attention. My sister JaNae and her friend took care of arranging photos and other memorabilia that represented my Dad's life. Our daughter Stacey made an amazing movie in tribute to her Grandpa that included many photos and film clips set to music. Those in attendance mentioned how meaningful these remembrances were for them.
Today is my Dad's funeral. We are looking forward to honoring him but he has always emphasized that funerals are a time to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Hopefully he will be pleased at our attempts to both remember him and remember our Savior who makes it possible for us to be with him again.
Some highlights for me this past week are: Being with the family I love dearly and growing even closer to them as we shared this sacred time. Feeling the love and admiration of my Dad's many friends and relatives. Seeing the fruits of my Dad's labors in the Church (he gave over a thousand patriarchal blessings and sealed many in the temple). Dressing my Dad in his temple clothes - my sister and I especially loved that his white temple shoes were on and it looked like he could leave his old worn out body behind and get up and go to work! Seeing the next generation serve their Grandpa so tenderly, they love and respect him, they felt the Spirit and how thin the veil was, they have all mentioned that he will continue to influence them as they think at all times "What would Grandpa want me to do?"
One thing that has been extremely evident to me is the way my Dad used his Priesthood to bless so many. He served as a Missionary, Bishop, Stake President, Temple Sealer and Patriarch. One of his favorite callings was as a home teacher. Many who came through the line at my Dad's viewing last night mentioned how he had saved their marriage, or brought them back to the church, or had given all of their children their Patriarchal Blessings, etc. By doing so he has earned many eternal friends. The Priesthood is meant to be used in serving our Heavenly Father's children and there is no doubt in my mind that when my Dad greets the Savior he will hear the words, "Well done thou good and faithful servant!"
We love each of you!
The Long Beach Buberts
No comments:
Post a Comment