Tribute to Uncle Gene

August 18, 2008 - Today is my younger sister's birthday, she is 39.  It is also my older sister's anniversary, 28 years.  It is also the day that my Uncle Gene took a step from this life to life eternal.  It is a day worth remembering.  Uncle Gene lived 93 years.  What I mean is that he "lived".  As long as I can remember he was full of life, I mean I never saw him down.  Once, back in the early 90's, I went and visited him in the hospital in Memphis.  He needed some blood so a group of us donated.  While in the hospital room, he was entertaining us with stories; mostly about the attention, or lack thereof, he was getting from the nursing staff.  Not for one minute did he complain about his illness, but rather was content on recalling past experiences and making those experiences relevant to the moment.

On several occasions, while traveling on business, I was able to stop in and visit with him at his home.  He was always excited to see me and welcomed me in with open arms.  During our visits, he would fill the conversation with the triumphs of his sons and daughter, as well as the exploits of his grandchildren.  He would always provide me with history lessons regarding our family and it's legacy.  I can remember very vividly how he would raise his right hand about chest high, hold it there until I was finished talking, and then go on to tell me about an experience or funny story that was related to our conversation.  Our discussions would stimulate a memory and he seemed delighted to recount his experiences.  

I remember talking about the War, the history of the family and it's roots, his experiences as a salesman with the Langenberg  (sp) Hat Company, and a bit of advice to a young businessman like myself.

If I could talk to him now, I am sure he would be telling me another exciting story about the amazing sights and experiences he is having in Heaven.  I am sure that Aunt Vadine, Uncle Bill, Grandma and Granddad have already had a chance to reunite.  I imagine that My Aunt Sylvia was the first one to wrap her arms around him and say " I have been waiting on you, welcome home...I can't wait to show you around."  Well, one day, we will meet again, and I am sure he will have some great stories to pass on to me.  Until then, I have been uniquely blessed to have a relative like Uncle Gene.  

He heeded the call to arms when his country needed his service, he was a dedicated husband, he was a wonderful father to his two sons and one daughter.  He was a productive, hard-working American, who instilled the values of self-worth, faith in God, servant leadership, and love to his family and friends.  He was part of a generation of Americans that made is possible for me to live and thrive in this country.  He and his generation laid a foundation on which this country has been built and made it possible for you and I to achieve and dream.  

He will be missed...but only for a little while.  I will see him again.