Grandpa Rhodes

On December 13, 2011 Ben's Grandpa Rhodes passed away.  It was such a sad day for all of us. He had just had a hip replacement surgery and was in the rehab center, recovering. We got a call late that night letting us know he died suddenly from pulmonary embolism. Our hearts were broken. Although he led a great life, he still had some years left to spend with us, at least that's what we thought. We knew the surgery would be a big deal, but we weren't prepared for this. Our family gathered together and mourned together. Ben's parent's house became the gathering place, and throughout that week and especially that weekend, we had almost all of Jan's family together. It was great to see everyone and get to spend some quality time with everyone, but obviously it was hard that it was under such devastating circumstances. Like I mentioned before, I have a feeling that Grandpa knew his time was short. Not long before he died Ben's parents took Grandma and Grandpa out to see John (Ben's uncle) and Sally in Kansas, and they went around seeing Grandpa's home town of Hope, Kansas, and other sentimental places. And then we had the fireside. Grandpa also wrote, with the help of his son John, an autobiography and gave us all a copy. He also wrote a book of economics and gave us all a copy. He was an economics teacher at Salt Lake Community College for years. He did seem that he was somewhat preparing for this. We weren't though, and we were so sad to have to say goodbye.

The funeral services were beautiful. A wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. 

One last time with Grandpa. 

Poor Grandma's heart is broken. I believe it will be until they are reunited again. 

The graveside was wonderful. They did a 21 gun salute at the graveside. It was very powerful. Very moving. 

Giving the flag to Grandma. 

Saying goodbye.

Ben taking the flag to the car for Grandma.

We stopped by to say hi to Kyns while we were there. Grandpa is buried just a few spots away. 

I loved looking all the pictures and memorabilia. Grandpa was such a great man! 

We will miss him so much until the day we get to see him again. We are so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are grateful to know that families really are forever. Love you forever Grandpa!