GRANDAD

My Grandad White died yesterday.  He was 87.  And he is one of the greatest men I have ever known.  He has taught me so much.

When I was a child Grandad taught me to value family.  We had White family reunions often.  One year we went to Ragged Mountain.  Grandad wrote new words to the tune "Battle Hymn of the Republic."  The entire family would sing at the top of our lungs:
          Glory, Glory Ragged Mountain!
          Glory, Glory Ragged Mountain!
          Glory, Glory Ragged Mountain!
          God Bless this eternal family!
Even though his accomplishments did not affect the entire world, he made a difference in the lives of his family.

Grandad also taught me to value the gospel.  I heard horror stories about Grandad's youth before he joined the Church.  The stories consisted of a foul-mouthed sailor who smoked cigars and antagonized young missionaries.  His conversion changed his life and consequently changed the life of his entire posterity.  He served as a bishop, in stake presidencies, in mission presidencies, and as a temple sealer.  (He sealed/married Scott and I for time and all eternity!)  He served a full-time mission with Grandma T.  He truly loves his Savior and the gospel of Jesus Christ.  His example has cultivated a love of the gospel in my life also.

My grandfather watched his wife, his only love, pass away.  But he eased her passing in every way he could.  He loved and cared for her.  I learned the importance of an eternal companion from Grandad.

Grandad also served our country in the navy during WWII.  His devotion to America and his love for our great nation was evident always.  His example influenced my view of our great country.

Grandad is not only a great example and a great teacher, he is a great man!   I am lucky and proud to call him my Grandpa!  I'll miss him.