Grandpa

In July my Grandpa Nelson, passed away at the ripe old age of 96. He was only a couple months away from turning 97 so he really did live a full life. I'm so very grateful the impact he had in my life. He and I had a special relationship and growing up I had the opportunity to spend quite a bit of time with him and my Grandma. I went on a few trips in there motor home with them, and I got to escorted them to Florida. My Grandpa will be missed but we are very grateful for the time that we had him with us. 

Through the greatness of my Grandma, Maia and I were able fly home to attend his grave side service, at the begging of August. 

Maia hanging out in the car on the way home from the airport. 

Grandpa. My Grandpa choose to be cremated and to honor him, my dad made a carpenters box for his ashes. Here is Grandpa sitting in his chair one last time. When I saw him last, this was where I said my goodbyes to him. 

He was laid to rest in Vale Oregon right next to my Grandma Nelson's parents. 

We headed out early so we could set up a canopy at the site and chairs. Although a little odd, Maia enjoyed playing in the grass as we got things set up. 

The beautiful flowers that were purchased for the funeral.

I had to quickly change Maia because we got up early and didn't have time to change her till right before the funeral.

In 2009 my Aunt Deanna passed away and I hadn't had a chance to see her monument and here it is. She was a huge influence in my life and I was grateful to see this and remember her. 

Uncle Ben with Maia and Jason.

Papa and Aunt Donna.

Uncle Scott, Maia and Jason. 

Jason took quite the liking to Maia. 

Uncle Vern giving his thoughts on Grandpa's life. 

Grandma and Uncle Ross.

Uncle Scott and Maia

Cory was able to do the honor guard for Grandpa and present the colors to Grandma. Here are some pictures from the color guard presentation. 

Megan, Maia, and Scott.

Uncle Ross, Uncle Larry, Grandma, Uncle Ross and Papa.

Presentation of the colors.

Papa giving the Eulogy.

Along time ago Grandpa asked me to sing at his funeral. My voice was not at it's top condition so I asked my Mom to sing with me. I'm very grateful for her being there with me as we honored Merle Aaron Nelson.