Grandpa Johnson

My 95-year-old Grandpa Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon. My Mom and Grandma were by his side and took such wonderful care of him right up to the end. I knew this day was coming, but my heart sure aches thinking I won't see my Grandpa again in this life.

He is such a source of inspiration to me. He worked hard all his life, riding a bus 1 hour each way to get to The Site in Idaho Falls to work and support his family, and then worked his farm on the side. He always had a funny joke to share and a sunny outlook on life, in spite of the difficulties.  He and my Grandma had 9 children together, one who died just a few days after he was born, and the other 8 that are still living today. They have 56 grandchildren, and over 100 great grandchildren. And the amazing thing is that Grandpa and Grandma know and love each one of us. I would often see Grandpa studying a list of his posterity, making sure he could remember who went with who and all the names.

Grandpa always had a smile and a friendly word for everyone he met and truly never met a stranger. I think he had true charity for all that he met and saw them through the Savior's eyes. He always told me what a joy I was to him and Grandma, and he thought so highly of me I always wanted to do and be better to try and live up to his expectations.

Grandpa, I love you and miss you! I will see you again someday and hope to continue to do my best to live up to the legacy you've given me.

Kalia met Grandma and Grandpa for the first time in June 2013

Grandpa's 95th birthday celebration

Grandpa and Grandma at the Johnson Reunion this June 2013

My sister Angie posted this picture on facebook and I love it. 

This is the kind of love you develop when you stick by your sweetheart for 68 years. 

True Love.

And this is how I picture my Grandpa now--young and full of life again.

Faithful to the end.