Papa

I am posting a copy of this short letter sent out about Papa Richard today from one of his other daughters. I'm still crying -- everything in it is so true, as me and my family have all experienced this from him. He will always be in my heart and I can hear him encouraging me on and believing in me. He was a true Papa. His love was unconditional.




Dear Family and Friends,

I thought I (daughter Mandy) would share with you all from my perspective the last couple of days I had with Papa Richard. On Tuesday when I saw Papa trying to weed wacking I went over to see if I could help. Normally he would tell me NO! and send me on my merry way, but this time he let me do it for him. As a way to say thank you he took us out for supper. He didn't eat much and said he wasn't hungry not even for ICE CREAM! For breakfast on Wednesday he ate only a yogurt which is highly unusual as we would always have bagels and cream cheese. In the afternoon Papa came over and talked with me about many things. He told me some plans and then said how he appreciated and loved me as much as if I was their biological child. Papa meant the world to me! Many of you know how he just stepped in and would help. He also believed in me. Papa always would say how he wished there were more people that would believe in someone even if they failed and give them a human example of Jesus. Many of us that have failed has been due to a lack of example, pressure, or just being desperate. ( I am so not using that as an excuse just a valid fact) Papa never looked down on me or any of those who he helped when we failed. Papa would give them time and energy and lead them in the right direction if they wanted it. He gave me the strength in the face of extreme struggle. When others said I'd fail he would come to me and encourage me and say those four beautiful words to me. I BELIEVE IN YOU! Because of the example Papa gave me and my two boys I am determined to keep my lamp for Christ burning brightly. I want to encourage all those who also lost a Papa, Grandpa he believed in you that you can also shine for Christ. Let's do that not only for Papa, but for ourselves and Christ. I know Papa helped many people I am not the only one I am just the one who lived the closest and was able to be in touch every day. Papa talked about each one and when one would call he would know exactly which category you were in whether it was daughter, sister, brother, or son he could name you all. Each and every one of us he loved with a passion unlike any parent. We were all very blessed to be touched by his example and love.

I don't know what will come out of this family letter, but I hope and pray that God leads another person to take up the burden for others that Papa had. Let's continue to pray for Mama as she goes about her days that she will have strength to continue on. Please be respectful of her time right now and let's send cards now instead of phone calls.

In Him,
Daughter Mandy