Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Sorrow

My PopPop 
George Baxter 
July 4, 1924- July 12, 2011


My grandfather passed away tonight.  He turned 87 a week ago on July 4th and celebrated the day at a family picnic.  But...his health had been failing since a stroke in the spring. 

He and my grandmother had been married 66 years and together they raised 8 children.  They have 18 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.  PopPop's name was George Baxter.  He passed his middle name onto my dad, Ronald Baxter, the 5th child and 2nd son.  We were blessed to pass that name on to our own Owen Baxter, our 3rd child and 2nd son.  

I grew up with four grandparents and now, at the age of 30, I have lost the first one.  I know I am blessed to have had this many years with him.  (My own children know the joy of only 3 grandparents, as Brian's dad passed away almost 7 years ago.) 

There is sadness, but there is also joy.  Tonight as we prayed with the kids before bed, Brian reminded us that tonight PopPop is in his heavenly home where his body is no longer weak and failing.  We are blessed by his Godly example and are beyond blessed for the Godly heritage.  


Weeping may remain for a night, 
but rejoicing comes in the morning.
Psalm 30:5


9 comments:

  1. I'm sorry for your loss. You will be in my prayers during this difficult time, that the Lord will comfort you.

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  2. I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

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  3. So sorry to hear about your grandfather. Praying for your family as y'all mourn the loss. Your grandfather sounds like a wonderful man. And I agree, what a blessing to have had all your grandparents living for 30 yrs.

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  4. I'm so sorry...My grandfather passed away about 2 years ago, and sometimes I still can't believe he is gone. Isn't it a blessing and comfort though that despite the pain we know we will be reunited with our grandfathers? May the Lord comfort you in this time of mourning.

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  5. I am so sorry, Kristin. Prayers for comfort for you and your family. How great is the hope that comes only in Christ.

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  6. So sorry about your grandfather....it's a very deep sorrow to be sure.

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  7. Oh, Kristin, I'm so sorry! But now I know we really are kindreds, because my 89-year-old grandfather passed away on the ninth. Twenty grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and he was only the second grandparent I've lost. I'm right there with you!

    I was in town with my grandma on Wednesday for the viewing, and now we're holding the memorial for next Tuesday, so my aunt and uncle in China can hopefully make it in time.

    I will lift you and your whole family up to the Father every time I think of my loss. {The verse you included is so perfect. Thank you.}

    Love you. xoxo

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  8. Kristin~
    I'm sad to hear about your grandfather. I treasure my remaining (three) grandparents, too. I feel so incredibly blessed to *know* them as an adult.

    Hugs,
    ~Stacy

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  9. kristin, i'm so sorry to hear about this. may God's peace wrap it's everloving arms around you. praying for you sweet friend!!

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