WE WILL MISS YOU PA PA DON!

WE WILL MISS YOU PA PA DON!

My stepfather, Don, passed away on March 22, 2008. He was surrounded by his family that loved him very much. Last July of 2007, Don was diagnosed with pancreatic/liver cancer. He fought hard for 8 months to beat the cancer. My mother and Don were determined to win this battle with cancer, but unfortunately, the outcome was not what they had fought for.

Don, you were a FATHER to me. You taught me so much during the 25 years you were in my life. You were the one I went to for advice when mother and I didn't see eye to eye. You gave me countless advice about boys and life. Thank you for being my prom date to my Junior Prom. My friends had so much fun dancing with you!

I wasn't so sure about you teaching me to drive a stick shift, but after many country road trips with you and Mom, I finally learned. You even had faith in me to drive your Dodge pick-up with the boat behind it. I was nervous about driving the stick shift Dodge from the lake, but with your guidance we all made it back to the farm safely. How many Dad's taught their daughters to change the oil in their vehicles? In fact, you taught me to change the alternator to my old Chevy and how to maintain my vehicles.

I was honored to have you escort me down the aisle on my wedding day. Thank you for being there on such an important event of my life. The morning Sienna was born was full of excitement as Mother and you waited anxiously outside of my delivery room. You taught Sienna and Carissa patience and how to explore the great outdoors of the farm. As I recall, you even let Sienna drive your Toyota pick-up when she was 3. Of course, she had some help from you! The girls loved you and couldn't wait to talk to "Pa Pa" on the phone.

I'm deeply saddened that Sienna and Carissa will not get to grow up with you. But I'm thankful that you were a part of their lives. I'm even more saddened that your grandson, due to be born this June, 2008, will never have the chance to stare into your beautiful blue eyes and ride on one of your farm tractors. Don't worry, baby boy Sammons' will know who his Pa Pa was.

One of the sweetest things you could ever do for Mom is request to be buried in the little old cemetery up on the hill near the farm, just so you could "keep an eye on her and the farm." You were always the strong one and that strength will be carried on through those that knew and loved you!

Don, you will never be far from our hearts! We love you very much and will miss you dearly!

Your "daughter",

Darla