Thursday, November 12, 2009

We're Going To Miss Grandpa Frank!

This past Tuesday Mike's Dad Frank passed away peacefully at home. We went to Texas only two weeks ago to see him due to his declining health. What a blessing that was for us to see him one last time. We will forever be grateful we followed our hearts and went to visit. Although we are saddened we are relieved that he is out of pain and reunited with loved ones that passed before him.

Grandpa Frank was an incredible Grandpa. He loved holding babies and always jumped at the opportunity to hold our kids or any other sweet baby near by. He always made Katy and Eric feel like they were the neatest kids in the world. He was very good at drawing and spent lots of time drawing pictures with the kids. When we played Pictionary everyone wanted to be on his team. When he played games with us we knew there would be lots of laughs in store. Grandpa loved vacationing in Mexico and was kind enough to take us with them. Now we love Mexico just as much. We will cherish the many memories of vacationing in the water and the beach with him.

Anyone that knew him knew he was intelligent and very well informed on politics. He was a master musician. I was always so amazed that he taught himself to play the piano and boy could he play. Mike's cousin recently posted a video of Frank playing the piano and Katy has spent many times this week watching it. Anyone that knew him knew that he had a deep love for Grandma Lynn. He adored her! He was so proud of his two children Mike and Cheryl. He accepted me into his family nearly 20 years ago. Always respecting my beliefs and making me feel like I was a valued part of the family. He always supported Katy and Eric in everything they did. Whether it was dance performances, soccer games, baptisms, primary programs and the list could go on. He was a generous man. Always eager to help another person. Whether it be playing the piano at special functions, letting people live with them when they needed a helping hand, and even taking in stray cats looking for a home. Frank took the time to get to know my family. My brothers and sisters always felt like he was truly interested in them. He accepted my family just like they were his family.

I am a better person for knowing Frank Keil and feel so blessed that he helped raise a son that respects me, treats me with compassion and love. I am so thankful my children felt like when they were with their Grandpa they were truly special. It will be a great reunion one day when we meet again. We love you Grandpa Frank!

4 comments:

KM said...

Beautiful Angie! Everything you said was so true! We all loved Frank.

gmakathy said...

A very nice tribute, Angie. Frank was truly a kind and generous man. He was not only good to you and your fmily but...like you said...to all of our family. Like many have said...when you were talking with him, you felt like you were the most interesting person he had ever talked to. What a great quality...making people feel important!! We will all miss him.

Jen said...

I am so sorry to hear about Mike's dad. I know how much he meant to all of you. Hope you are all doing well.

Iris said...

What a nice tribute to a wonderful man.