Lost my Hero

Joined
Nov 29, 2006
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He was around since the beginning of my memories. A fairly large man with a big voice and a hearty laugh. I think we were buddies right away, but can't remember for sure. His whole existance was based on uncorruptable integrity, respect and pride. His family ment everything and his word was all you needed.

As I grew, I soon learned that he could fix or make about anything. If it needed welding, brazing, soldering, screws or rivets. If it needed to be re-bent, straitened, twisted or tweeked, re-handled, re-finished or re-built. If it could be saved, he'd find a way. May even have 'one' back here in the pile that's in better shape. Or, if all else fails, maybe we can make 'one'.

From him, I learned a great deal about using your head AND your hands. Many times he helped me turn what I 'had' into what I 'needed'. And when he needed more hands, I was always pleased to help, learn, and to spend time with him. He proved the value of good tools and proper use. [and knowing WHO has your stuff!:D]

We camped, hunted, boated and canoed. He loved the outdoors and nature. And a walk in the woods was always an 'all-consuming adventure'. I was showed so many times that happiness and beauty was not always linked to money. And some of the most valuable 'stuff' was nothing more than stories of the past.

I learned so much from him that I can't begin to express. I saw him as an icon, an idol, a man of wisdom and common sense. His presence radiated rightousness and commanded respect. All in a fair and civil way.

He was my hero.

He was my Grandpa.

With the greatest of respect, admiration and love, rest in comfort and peace.

George W Dewey
March 1, 1914 - Nov. 25, 2009

Thanks for taking the time to read my 'tribute'. You may have guessed that he ment a LOT to me.

Enjoy the upcomming holidays, and enjoy your families!!
 
my condolences. Sounds like my grandfather, he was my mentor until he passed when I was 16

--Page
 
May all the good men know when a good man is gone. May he rest in peace. His spirit will live on in those like you that he touched and guided.
 
Very sorry to hear about your Grandfather.My condolences,to you and your family,as I am sure he will be missed.

God bless,Keith
 
My condolences as well. I had a grandpa much like yours. I will say a little prayer for him and your family. May he rest in peace...
 
Sorry for your loss... Grandpas are the greatest, Sounds like he lives in you!
 
he will be greeted with smiles and open arms at the gates of Heaven and he will live forever in your heart .
 
Thank you for the thoughts and prayers. I am soooooo blessed that I have 40+ years of memories of time spent with him. I also have a lot of tools & equipment that were his, along with knives, guns, and his clock collection. I use 'stuff' that was his every day.

And for as long as I have enough mind to know my name, he will be honored in my heart!

Thanks again!!
 
I'm very sorry Randy, it sounds like he was truly a great man.

My best wishes go out to you and your family in this hard time. Let me know if you need anything bud.
 
Grandfathers are truly special people. Often times we lose them before we know how special they really are.

I have said this on other posts, but I will say it again. My grandfather (Papa Jim Dark) was born in 1881 and he left us in 1965. I was only 17 at the time, but I spent most of those 17 years right beside him.

He is the ONLY reason I have a passion for knives today. He always had a good sharp knife and taught me how to properly use a knife and how to sharpen one on an old whetrock.

I am 62 years old now and have six grandchildren. None of them are the least bit interested in spending time with "Papa". It is a shame, but video games come first I guess.

If your grandfather is still living, please take time to talk with him. He has much to offer, be it knives or "Life in General".

I'm sorry for your loss. There isn't a day that goes by that something doesn't remind me of "Papa Jim".

Robert
 
Randy, what a powerful tribute you shared with us in those handful of thoughtful and heartfelt words. I believe I learned as much about you as I did about your dear Grandfather. Thanks so much for giving us a glimpse of one so dear to your heart...and hands. All the best to you and yours....
 
May your grandpa and friend rest in peace. I lost my Father in March, its never easy losing family let alone your best bud.

Prayers sent to you and yours brother.

Chris
 
What a wonderful, well-written tribute! He sounds like the role model we should all aim to be.
 
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