On March 29, 2012 we received a phone call we knew would come at some point, yet we still weren't quite prepared for it. Ben's grandpa, Walter Hartsock, had passed away. Peacefully, in his sleep, at the grand age of 101. What a life he had lived. So many things he saw over his time on earth. He touched the lives of many. It was clear from early on in our relationship that Ben had a special love for his grandpa. He has so many great memories with him. I am thankful to have had fifteen years to be around him and hear his stories and see Ben with him. For my girls to meet him and for him to hold them and hug them. He was there the day Whitney was born. He lived a great life, not always easy, but great. That was evident from all the people that came to honor him at the calling hours and funeral. There was a constant line for 4+ hours. Ben, his cousin, Mallorey, and Walter's nephew spoke at the funeral. All reminiscing about wonderful memories with Walter. It was a beautiful spring day to honor him and a tremendous celebration of his life. We will certainly miss him and life definitely will not be the same without him around. He was and has always been around. But we rejoice knowing he is with our Lord, no doubt playing a mandolin and singing some old time music. :)
After the funeral, we all went over to Ben's cousin's house. I can't tell you the last time we ALL (minus Dan) have been able to be together. It was great therapy for the everyone I think. And I know Walter loved looking down on that. The kids jumped all day on the trampoline. And the big kids played football and basketball, and I'm pretty sure were very sore the next day.
Jumping
Skateboarding?
Easy-E wants to learn how to walk
Easy now...
Watching the foolishness
Big crew. Happy we could all be together that day.
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