"Enjoy the little things in life ~ one day you'll wake up and realize they were the big things"







Saturday, May 19, 2012

Grandpa Sid

We returned home a few days ago from a bittersweet but treasured visit with lots of extended family. The occasion was the funeral service for our beloved "Grandpa Sid".

Re-wind to 1967 when Kevin lost his father (to leukemia) at the age of six. Kevin's mom wisely sought out a "big brother" for him (through the "Big Brothers" program) ~ this is when Sid Smock entered Kevin's life. Sid (and his wonderful wife Ann), however, went above and beyond the typical big brother role, requesting that they be placed with both Kevin and his older brother, KC. Sid and Ann had 2 daughters (Kevin's age and a little younger). Long story short, the following decades found Kevin and KC enveloped in the love of a family; sharing laughter, making memories, enjoying long days by the lake, fishing trips, motorcycle rides, great conversations, trips to the mountains, holiday celebrations ~ life ~ together. Return to present day, where 45 years later, Kevin and his brother are still welcomed, esteemed and included as family by the Smocks.

All of us enjoyed the chance for re-connection and the kids, especially, enjoyed getting to know their cousins better. Kevin spoke at the service and did an excellent job. He and the others who shared were each able to represent the many facets of an incredible man in a way that (I believe) brought him much honor.