My Grandfather

We know him as grandpa.

*Read at my grandfathers funeral, By Ryan Wallace*

We will forever remember going to the cottage each summer with you.  You’d help us go fishing, you’d listen to us sing to you and Grandma, and at our live music performances you’d even buy the popcorn from us that you paid for at the grocery store.  You’d ask for our assistance as you took us on the boat to get the latest sweet from the Boat Store.  I’m still not convinced that those trips weren’t more for your candy pleasure than ours.  And who can forget the puffy French toast that you’d make for us…No one can make it like you, and even still each of us fails in comparison.

We also remember the times when we’d come stay the night at your house.  Grandma and you treated us like royalty.  Taking us out to breakfast, the dime store, the fire station visits, and the sweets, oh the sweets you’d share with us!  There were also so many holiday memories.  The whole family singing off key, visiting you in our costumes on Halloween, Gathering around the thanksgiving table and telling you what we’re thankful for, searching for Easter eggs that you would hide for us, and finally the joy on your face as we’d open up our stockings at Christmas time.  These are all cherished memories.

It’s hard to say goodbye to a man that has touched our lives in so many ways.  We will always hold the memories of you in our heart, as well as proclaim them to our families throughout the coming years.  Grandpa, you displayed a love that was truly counter-cultural.  Your servant’s heart and your kindness were felt by each person you encountered here in this room.  You have left an amazing legacy that will be passed down to the next generation.

There are two types of people in this world.  Those that want to do and seemingly have the best intentions, but they can’t seem to see outside of their busy schedule and themselves…and then there are those that just do.  Grandpa just did.  And out of the group of people who just do, there are two more groups.  There are those that do things for their own recognition, self-satisfaction, or to put a star up on the board for that day.  Then there are those who truly love others, and see them as more important than themselves.   I believe our grandfather can echo the words of Paul:

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”

Paul Longberg lived his life as an instrument of Gods, blessing people, serving people, and loving people just as Christ has called each of us.  He truly longed for Christ’s appearing and we rejoice in the assurance of his new home.