My Heart is Heavy

I have dreaded this post. But, it's important to me to remember this day, and the wonderful life that I was able to share a portion of. Although I lost 2 grandpa's when I was younger, I was too young to understand that it was a permanent thing, that I would no longer get to share moment's with them on this earth. As I've gotten older, I have been fortunate enough to continue to share moments with those I love without having to suffer another loss. But, on February 17th, that all changed. I lost a very important person in my life, my sweet Grandpa Rolf. It's never easy to lose someone you love, but this was so hard. Not only because I would miss him terribly, but because his sweet wife is left behind without him. Lilly loves Rolf so much, and they had such a special relationship. I have always admired them for that. They didn't have unrealistic expectations of each other, they understood each other, and were content with that. As simple as that is, it's something I have tried to incorporate in my marriage. That we are all unique, and special, and that we should let each other be what they are without trying to change them. I love that. What a great lesson to learn. On top of that, Rolf has accomplished so much. Too much to even remember everything. But some things I will never forget is Rolf's love for model airplanes. These airplanes are expensive and so much time goes in to preparing them to fly. From what I know, they are built to scale, and it takes lots of practice to be able to fly and land one. Not to mention you had to fly them on an actual runway to get the speed for them to take off! So neat!  I loved to go in his work room in the basement and see his planes. He took such pride them! Another thing I know about Rolf is that he was a successful engineer back in Switzerland. So much so, that he wrote and published a textbook on engineering. I need to get my hands on one of those books! Rolf was always a hard worker, up until the day he died, he was still taking care of his house and yard. Rolf was a successful man, and was able to move to the States that they loved so much! He loved Salina for it's peacefullness. He appreciated nature and the beautiful mountains we have around. I know he and Lilly enjoyed going in the mountains together! Although he enjoyed their condo in Salt Lake, I know that he had a special place in his heart for Salina. He loved it here.
 Nothing is better than learning from the wise. Those who have experienced life and have learned from it. I have always enjoyed talking to those in their later years, and admiring their wisdom. Dustin was the same when it came to Rolf. He was enjoyable to be around and we both loved talking to him. I am so grateful to have known such a wonderful man. I love you, Rolf. Thank you for all you did for us, and for being a part of our lives.
xo

We had a dinner at the South China restaurant in Richfield to honor Rolf. His closest friends were there, and it was a very special evening. Jerry gave a great speech, along with a few others. 

What an honor to have known Rolf. I am forever grateful.