Codie ; what a beautiful tribute to your papa. Everyone should be so fortunate to experience that kind of love. Hold tight to all of those wonderful memories.
Codie's message brings tears because I am sad for her and Dixie and Jacob but also because I am so happy each of you had the honor and good fortune to have him in your lives. And, Codie, you say it perfectly "family is love." It's easy to see he loved all of you. Maybe you feel as if you didn't speak the credit he deserved but you certainly showed it and that's all any parent wants. Asking him "dad" questions, trusting him to teach you to drive, bringing him your broken things to mend, and tying your ribbons on his shoes was giving him credit. He gave you many gifts that will continue to give, even in his absence.
Codie, what great memories you have of John. I knew him quite well since he stopped at Platte Valley Agency to coffee with Gayle Verbeck and if Gayle was busy he would pour a cup and come in to my office and drink with me. He fixed my computer so many times and would take nothing for it. You have lost a Great Father Figure and we all had a Great Friend in John.
Ah, Codie. You captured John perfectly. he hasn't changed since I knew him in college and fraternity brother. You were lucky to have him. Cherish the memories and may they be a blessing.