The reason that we flew out to Utah this week was for Kyle's Grandpa Walser funeral. He passed away last Thursday January 29. He was 89 years old but had a small stroke and passed away within 24 hours after his stroke. His dear sweet wife passed away almost 5 years ago and so we knew that his time was coming, but it was still pretty sudden because of the stroke complications.
When we heard the news that he was in the hospital late Wednesday night, of course we were very sad and preparing ourselves for his passing away. But I was quickly reminded of the wonderful blessing we have of knowing of families being together forever. I can only imagine the excitement (for lack of better word) that Grandpa Walser probably had knowing that in a matter of hours he would be reunited with his dear sweet wife in the presence of our Heavenly Father and our Savior. I know that Grandma Walser was probably just as excited for that sweet embrace.His funeral was a neat experience and I felt very honored being apart of this family. It was a wonderful funeral service followed by a full military grave side service. Grandpa Walser was a great example of service and dedicating his life for good. He not only was in the Airforce for a number of years, but him and his wife served 3 different missions and they were always finding ways to serve their family.
Everything about the grave side ceremony was intriguing to Jantsen. He enjoyed watching the officers carry the casket, looking at the flag that was given to Kyle's mom in remembrance, and holding the bullet shells of the 3 shots that were fired for Grandpa Walser. We were also lucky to watch 2 Airforce jets do a "fly-over" in his honor.
Grandpa Walter Walser was such a wonderful man! I am so grateful for the example he was to his family, and especially to Kyle. He was a wonderful priesthood example to Kyle during some rough times in his life. I am grateful for the constant concern and support he offered to Kyle during his pre-mission years. He was also a big factor in our wedding too as he was the one that sealed Kyle and I in the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. He dedicated his life to the Lord and to his family. I am so grateful for the influence he has been in our family. It is amazing to think of the influence one person has on the potential outcome of so many generations.
We love you Grandpa Walser!
7 comments:
Sounds like such an amazing man. And thanks for helping me see the bright and honorable side of having a husband in the Air Force...it looms over me sometimes.
That's neat Janel! So glad you got to be there...
He sounds like such a great man! The passing of a grandparent is so bitter sweet because you know you're going to miss them but you also know what a wonderful welcome they're getting in heaven. I've never been to a military funeral but it sounds like a neat experience.
Sorry to hear about that. It sounds like he had a long fulfilling life and was ready to meet his wife on the other side. I am glad the funeral was a good experience and you have such great memories of him to carry with you.
That is so awesome about the military and what not! Funerals are a bitter sweet thing sometimes aren't they. I am sure It was an awesome reunion in heaven when he got there! I am so glad we have the knowledge we have! Sorry I haven't called or anything, Jack has been pretty sick! Are you still here, or not?
We miss you guys already!! I don't know if Curt told you.. but when you left at 6am for your flight back, Parker woke up right after that and said, "I want Jantsen!" cried for a sec and went back to sleep! so cute but sad. it was fun seeing you even for just one day! take care and we'll talk soon :)
I love stories like that. It helps me refocus and remember just what it is we're all here on earth for. Thanks for sharing! I love your new family picture, it's adorable! I can't believe how big Cambryn looks, she's a little girl now! No baby left in those pics!
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