Yesterday, October 5th, would have been my father-in-law, J.C.'s, ninety-second birthday. I still miss his smiling face and lip kisses...a mere peck on the cheek just wouldn't do. If you shook hands with him, beware! He had a bone-crushing "real man's" grip. Those weathered, calloused hands weren't afraid of hard work. When anyone asked about the partial finger on his right hand, he laughingly called it his "mustard spreader". He caught it in a piece of machinery at work and lost the tip of his right middle finger. A little accident didn't slow him down. There was always a project going on out in the workshop. The workshop is now quiet; his tools are dusty and rusty...missing him.
Pop was addicted to Starlight mints, one of his few vices. He carried them in his pocket and always pressed one into my hand every Sunday morning at church, 'cause he knew I love them too. He was not afraid to stand up for what is right, and he wouldn't mince words about it, either. You will never find a more loving and faithful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, or friend. Although he was my father-in-law, I was never treated as anything other than a "daughter in love".
Just in case we celebrate earthly birthdays in heaven, Pop, please save me a place at the table next to you. I want a big piece of Margaret's German chocolate cake and a Starlight Mint.
Copyright 2011 Charlotte Laney
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What a wonderful man Uncle J.C. was. I miss his visits with Aunt Beckie and staying up late playing games. Awesome memories from my childhood summers. :)
ReplyDeleteYes he was, Deana. He loved to play Rook. So did your great-grandfather, Paw Berry. On Friday nights if someone is talking and not paying attention to the game, we laugh and repeat Paw Berry's saying..."Are you going to talk, or play cards?" We immediately shut up!
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