It was probably about three and a half years ago, when Nixin was just old enough to mumble out his first words, that we came in contact with a family whom we would quickly come to love.
It was just before Sacrament meeting when Nixin started shouting "Papa! Papa!". He was pointing his finger at John Miles. For some reason or another, he was so excited to see this "Papa" who he had never before had any contact with. Nixin ran to him. John picked Nixin up and sat him on his lap. Nixin didn't move the entire meeting, which was huge! We had been having a rough time making it through church with him. I remember watching him sitting there so content, I was in disbelief.
Well, this very quickly became routine. John and Nancy would walk into the chapel and off Nixin went to sit with his "Papa". Soon enough, Jack decided that there was something great about these people too and he would leave Chad and I behind to sit with them. The Miles were so cute. They started sitting on the bench right across from us and would bring a scripture case full of toys and goodies for my boys. Before we knew it, our children had adopted new grandparents. They really feel that way too. They honestly know no difference between John and Nancy and their "real" grandparents.
It was a very short time ago that John was diagnosed with cancer. His decline was very quick, despite his every attempt to rid his body of the horrible disease. We knew that his time on earth was coming to an end and decided that we should take our children to see their Grandpa Miles one last time.
When we walked into his room last night, we were all surprised at John's condition. We knew that his time of passing was near, but what we didn't realize before is just how close it really was. It was very emotional for me to watch my kids say "Goodbye Grandpa. I love you." to this man who is very much a part of their lives.
Last night at 11:45 John passed away. I could never express just how much he has meant to our family. We will truly miss his caring heart, happy smile, playfulness and kindness. We will never forget you John! Thank you for all that you have done for our family.
Today's Activity: Saying Goodbye to Grandpa Miles
7 comments:
Oh I'm so sorry. I know how much Grandma and Grandpa Miles mean to your family. Please express our deepest condolences to Nancy. With love, Ken and Becky
oh sad, but so sweet, sounds like you are all so lucky to have had him in your lives:)
I'm sorry. How wonderful your boys could say goodbye to someone they love so much.
oh, I am so sorry.
Sorry to hear the news. Nixin told blake that his Grandpa past away. I remember watching nixin sitting with him at church. It was cute!!
Bro miles always had a smile.
I am so sorry.
Sorry. What a cute story though, they sound like very special people. I can't imagine the happiness they found from your darling boys too!
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