Grandpa John

While Campbell and I were in Phoenix we received news that my Grandpa John had passed away. 

Although not biologically related to our family at all,

 Grandpa John is the only REAL grandpa I 

{and I think my siblings would agree this applies for them as well} 

ever had. 

I always think of him on Easter. 

Often he would come visit on or near Easter time. 

He never came empty handed either. 

We'd always find Cadbury Eggs and other goodies hidden outside.

He was always chewing cinnamon trident gum, 

making origami out of dollar bills,

{I still have a few from his last visit}

& wearing Keds slip ons & Dickies coveralls. 

He had 3 tattoos on his arms.

One on each forearm, and on one bicep.

I remember him kidding with me when I was little

telling me he had a naked lady on the other bare bicep. 

The cards he sent or stationary he used usually had some type of "john"or toilet reference.

He was the best about sending Birthday and Christmas cards.

Never a day late!

I wish I would have saved more of his letters.

Every Christmas and Birthday I anxiously awaited a card from Grandpa,

for I knew I would find a $50 savings bond inside.

I had to cash a few in just after high school as I was getting settled into being a big girl,

but still have a few left. 

Maybe I'll buy something special for Campbell with them some day. 

Last time he was here for a visit was May of 2010.

Chris and I were just about to start fertility treatments. 

He was on his way to visit his son and daughter 

and would stop back by on his way home in the fall.

I was so excited for him to see me big and pregnant. 

Unfortunately the timing didn't work out.

He just shows up in his motor home,

always has,

and I just happened to be out of town when he did.

I always think of him when I see a motor home. 

Chris and I were talking and remembering the times he came to visit. 

Chris realized the first time Grandpa John came to visit us in Coweta

the two of them went to eat at Roys Chicken while I had to work.

Coincidentally, Chris ate at Roys chicken that evening we found out about his passing.

This is only crazy because Chris has only eaten there 2x in the 4+ years we've lived here. 

I am so thankful we were able to have him visit us several times recently. 

I wish he would have been able to meet Campbell. 

I will so miss this man,

and forever be grateful for all he has done for my family over the years.  

Age 74, passed away on May 18, 2011. Mr. John was born February 4, 1937, in Vancouver, Washington. He graduated from Roseburg High in 1955. After graduation he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Mannheim Germany as a helicopter mechanic. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1958. The owner of Winston Sanitary Garbage Company from 1968 - 1985. Married Bonnie Jean (Churchill) on July 24, 1971, deceased July 5, 1975. He had three children: son, Edward Andrew, deceased April 18, 1988. He is survived by daughter, Patricia Ann Benton from Moweaqua, Illinois; son, Paul Lee from Springfield, Illinois; seven grandchildren; four step-grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. I wish to thank Mr. and Mrs. Mike Mandera for being there whenever my dad needed them. Thanks also to all the staff at the Taylor House for all there compassion and care while my dad was there. Per his wishes, there will be no services. Please visit wilsonschapeloftherosesfh.com to sign the online register book and to leave condolences for the family.