Who would allow a sixteen year old with a brand new license to drive his new Thunderbird? Uncle Jim. I was shocked when he asked if I would like to drive it. What a thrill to cruise around our small town hoping someone saw me in the sporty car.
As my youngest uncle, he did things my other uncles didn’t. Driving a convertible when others had family cars. Keeping a rattlesnake and baby in the same trailer. Raising a boa constrictor and mice to go with it. Letting his young children handle the large boa.
As an adventuresome guy, he loved hunting, fishing, boating, and traveling. A visit to their lake home included boat rides, skiing, fishing, birdwatching, and magnificent fireworks on the Fourth of July. He and Aunt Betty always made guests feel welcome.
They traveled the world, and I enjoyed hearing about their various trips. We shared stories of similar destinations. During family cruises the last few years, I was able to spend more time with him.
At times, we talked about our mission trips and church experiences. He didn’t like “social clubs” where people didn’t even take their Bibles.
He cared deeply about his family who were an important part of his life. His sisters will miss their little brother, who was probably a pain at times. His children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends will miss his smile and engaging manner.
As his body refused to let him live as he had for years, it was hard to see the unwelcome transformation. Even though he is gone from those here who love him, he is home with Jesus. His waiting is over.
But we are citizens of heaven, exiles on earth waiting for a Liberator, our Lord Jesus the Annointed, to come and transform these humble, earthly bodies into the form of His glorious body by the same power that brings all things under His control. Philippians 3:20-21 (The Voice)
Aunt Helen, Marjorie (my mom) and Uncle Jim
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