Wednesday, March 11, 2009

We Miss You, Big Guy!





As many of you know, my brother-in-law Jason passed away on February 25th. I have taken quite the break from blogging, and it would not be fitting to post anything, without first paying a tribute to him. Jason was Logan and Caden's favorite uncle. They always loved it when he came to visit. As you can see in these pictures, they talked him into leaving an important ball game that he was watching on TV with Brandon, to go downstairs and play with them in "the cave". I was cracking up as I watched "Big Guy", as the boys called him, cram into this little space and spend nearly an hour in there with them, playing Star Wars and super heroes. He was a great man with a big heart.
My sister is doing remarkably well. She spoke at the funeral, and shared with everyone the eternal perspective she has. She said, "Jason and I have known each other for thousands of years. When we were presented with the plan, we knew our time together on earth would be short, but that it would all be worth it." There was not a dry eye in the chapel. Brandon spoke, as well, and as he spoke I thought, "Wow! I am married to a general authority!" He did an amazing job, tying in gospel principles with memories of Jason. He and Jason were best of friends. His death has left a definite void in our lives, but we are so blessed with great memories and with the gospel knowledge that we will see him again.
Life continues on, and now with a greater appreciation for each day, for each interaction we have with loved ones, for prayer, for temples, for a loving Heavenly Father, His Son who makes resurrection possible, and for the Comforter who lifts our burdens. Thanks to all of you who have expressed your love and concern for us during this time. What would we do without you? We truly are blessed.

8 comments:

DIY REDS! said...

i am so sorry to hear that. he looks like such a great uncle! i am so grateful for the plan and that we know that we will be with them again. i still miss my brother and dad and feel like something is missing but then i really feel, especially now that it has been a while, that they are really not that far away. i hope you guys are doing okay.
amy

Annalee Kelly said...

What a blessing to have good memories until you see him again. We love you.

crack'n up ourselves said...

Thanks for sharing the pictures with us. I hope your boys will always be able to remember him.

Angela said...

What a nice tribute! Jimmy and I have had you guys in our thoughts are prayers. Thanks for sharing about the funeral; it helps me keep perspective when I remember how fragile life is and it makes me so grateful for the gospel.

MadMadameMim said...

It just breaks my heart to think of people going through these kind of tragedies. But it is so heartening to have the gospel and loving families to support those in need. This might sound strange, but I feel better know your sister has so many good friends and family watching over her at this time. Somethings just feel so real, despite the disconnection. I hope you are still doing well. And I hope your sister knows how many people are concerned and praying for her in her time of need.

B&C Parke Family said...

This was such a perfect post. It truly touched my heart!

Sharee said...

What a sweet tribute to your brother-in-law. I hope that your family continues to do well in his absence. I don't think I would be able to speak at a loved ones funeral let alone my spouse. I am sure that you have an amazing sister. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

AmberLou said...

We are so sorry for your loss. Your sister sounds like she is so strong. There's a quote by M. Russell Ballard that I love that says, "The Lord is in control. He knows the end from the beginning. He has given us adequate instuction that, if followed, will see us safely through any crisis. His purposes will be fulfilld, and someday we will understand the eternal reasons for all of these events." I also love the parts in the scripture found in Doctrine and Covenants 101:16 that read, "Therefore, let your hearts be comforted... for all flesh is in mine hands; be still and know that I am God." Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.