Amazing
There's a guy whom I've always looked up to, who's inspired and encouraged me. In my earliest memories, my grandfather is patting me enthusiastically on my back, saying my name in his Latvian accent, flipping pancakes and getting one stuck to the ceiling, outside in his driveway applying epoxy to his motor boat and making wild blueberry jam. For many years, we never saw Papa Ed. With young kids and businesses and jobs, our lives were packed, and he was too busy to come our way.
Seven years ago, that changed. True to his nature, he was on a step ladder, scraping the ceiling of his back porch, when he fell, breaking his left hip and elbow. After months of recovery, at the age of 95, he came to live with us in Dryden. We tended the wound that had developed on his heel, and he tried to adjust to living in our home.
The thing that irked him the most was not being "allowed" to drive his jeep anymore. We brought it here, and both sons drove it until it started to fall apart, but Papa couldn't anymore, due to his very poor eyesight. We heard stories of his quick reflexes when driving, reflexes that he perfected during his downhill skiing years ( well into his 90's). He'd mention it when talking to friends on the phone, or when his daughters came to visit. "I don't have a car. I'm trapped here."
There have been many trips to the hospital for health scares, and more medication, more care and oversight. But always, as much as we've been able, we've supported him in the background, so that he could feel as independent as possible. Chairs magically appear for him to sit on, breakfast preparations laid out so that he can cook his own oatmeal, walker placed in a spot where he can grab it. I don't think he realized how much his back up crew did for him, and that's absolutely fine.
You know how everyone has those phrases they repeat over and over? Make sure the ones you say are good and worth repeating, because those are some of the things we remember when someone is gone.
"Not a cloud in the sky!" (sitting outdoors in the shade of the pine trees)
"No guts, no glory." (talking about the silver medal he won at the age off 77, skiing at the Master's Cup World Finals)
"Forget" (everyday at some point, short for Forget It)
"Let me tell you!" (story on the way, but towards the end, no story. We knew he was remembering something important.)
"Amazing!"
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Papa passed away peacefully, in his own bed at home, on September 12, surrounded by friends and family. We were so blessed to know him.
Good bye Edward Strazdins. Enjoy your next great adventure. We love you.
If all of us could live as long and leave such a legacy. Your humble service and hospitality, Andrea, is an inspiration to me. Thank you for showing real love.
Andrea, Chuck and I are saddened to hear about your precious Grandfather’s passing, but know that he received a grand entrance into Heaven in a life well lived for family, others and most of all, for His Lord. How blessed he was to be able to be with your family his remaining years with your love and care.
Was wonderful reading of him and his amazing life and we pray that God will give you and all family members His peace and comfort during this time of loss and missing him. Sending love and prayers.
Dear Lambs, your love and care for Papa was and is Godly. Be encouraged and blessed. You did very well.