Today it has been 5 years since we received the tragic news that my dad died in a plane crash. There are still days when my mind plays tricks on me and find myself thinking I should pick up the phone and call him (we used to talk often over random things, funny jokes, advice, friends and he was my DIY advice guy) Right now Shawn is wishing he were here to help put in our wood flooring. My dad was the kind of guy that could fix anything. He is still missed dearly by family and friends. As I am spending time with my mom in St. George after she broke her leg, I admire her strength as she moves on through life without her soul mate. His funeral was a tribute to the way he lived his life. Every flower shop sold out of plants and flowers. Pilots from everywhere came to show their respect. His funeral was standing room only. He would never believe all of the people that were there to pay their respects. There were several "fly overs" during his funeral. He was killed with Nathan Ballard (Pres. Ballard's grandson) and we were comforted to know that both of these men died doing what they loved and that we have the knowledge of eternal life to get us through this trial. I have no doubt that I will be reunited with my dad someday, that is what keeps us strong and continuing on.
At dad's funeral, we passed out his "calling cards" that he loved. (sorry these did not scan very well but you get the idea) He would have loved the thought of everyone getting one of these.
We also had copies of this saying, that all pilots can relate to. We used to tease my dad and tell him that he should feel guilty for taking a paycheck from SKYWEST, because if the truth were known, he would work for them without a paycheck, he loved it that much. He was so fiercely proud of his kids and grandkids (he could NEVER talk about them without his eyes swelling with tears of joy and pride) I often feel cheated because there are so many milestones to still be reached with his grandkids. I hope I can instill his goodness and love in them. He showed us all how to make the most out of life. Good thoughts abound when we think of him, we have so many great memories of him!
