Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Papa John


Well, last Wednesday I received the call we knew was coming, but still was sad to get. Papa John had passed away. He was at peace, ready, and had his family with him. Papa John was my first father in-law and we have maintained a special relationship through my first marriage ending. I was talking one day on how I wanted to go back to school and bridge from LVN to RN, but my current job wouldn't allow for anytime off to take the classes. The next time I went over to Papa and Granny's house, while I was still married to his son, he said that they wanted to pay for me to go to nursing school! I couldn't believe that, then he added that this had nothing to do with my relationship with his son, he wanted to give me my education as a way of letting me know how much they appreciate me as Allison's mom and to ensure that Allison would always be taken care of financially. So, back to school I went and I always showed him my grades so he could see his money at work. He was so nice, proud and supportive, even as my first marriage ended to his son. He was a hell of a guy who was funny, stubborn, a jokester, loving and the "boss". He would tell me that he was the nicest guy as long as you agreed with him! :) There were many funny stories told about him at his funeral, some shockingly that we had never heard. He was Papa John to my children with Steve and he was asked about Audie the last time we talked. I love you Papa and we will all miss you deeply.


Love,

Becky and the girls

1 comment:

Denise Grover Swank said...

Becky,

I too had a wonderful relationship with my first husband's parents. I think they were a large part of his appeal. ;>) Unfortunately, they died in an accident while I was still married to their son. The entire first year after my divorce I found myself apologizing to them. But then I realized, looking back, they knew exactly who their son was and they understood.

I'm so glad that you could continue your relationship with your FIL and I know tha you will miss him greatly.

Denise
theresalwaysroomforonemore.blogspot.com