Grandpa Rhodes...

My Grandpa James Rhodes passed away on December 13, 2011. He was one of the most amazing men I have ever known. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be his granddaughter and to have learned so much from him.

We are so lucky to have been able to see him a few weeks before he passed away. He called the entire family together to have a family fireside. My Grandpa was a United States Marine. I knew this all my life but never fully understood what that meant. I always knew that he had a great love for his country and wanted his family to have it too. Until the fireside I had no idea of his amazing service and bravery. He told stories of the famous people he knew and served with. He told us about his survival as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. He told us of his 2 Purple Hearts and Silver Star. He told us of how his testimony grew because of his experiences. I feel so blessed to have heard his stories from him before he passed. 

 I am so thankful that my girls were able to know and love grandpa. They always loved getting big hugs and making him laugh. I am sad that my new little William will never know him on this earth. 

Grandpa's funeral was really nice. We cried and laughed as we remembered his amazing life. He was honored to have a the Marine Core at his burial. It was a very sobering experience. 

I love my Grandpa so much and will miss him deeply. I am so thankful for the knowledge of eternal families. I can't wait for the day when I can see him again, hear his big laugh and get a huge hug!