We spent two days sorting and packing...

And then we had the funeral. It was overwhelming because the city employees (police and fired departments) ASKED to do a Color Guard at the service. He was honored in a way we didn't expect but greatly appreciated. They had never done anything like this before and spent many hours planning, arranging and rehearsing. By the time the service started, our family was swelling with pride. I'm thrilled to be his granddaughter and a part of his heritage.


We showed up at the church in Tulare and we were greeted by these finely dressed gentleman in the parking lot.


And these gentleman carried Grandpa's casket into the church.


My Uncle Mark (married to my dad's sister, Joanie) officiated the service.


There was singing by Charla--a member of Grandpa's church for...as long as I can remember. She used to sing in his church all the time and he loved her voice.


And then Joanie read a poem she wrote for Grandpa--she did the same when Grandma died three years ago.


And then it was time to head out to the cemetery for the graveside service. The kiddos did well during the service but were ready to get out the door.


Here they are headed to the gravesite:


And then there was the whole flag ceremony and presentation:


The current Mayor giving the flag to my dad and my auntie. They are sending it to my uncle, the oldest child, in Canada. Jan was not able to make it to the service.


During prayer, Dad & Joanie held the flag:


After all that, we headed out for some family time at Grandpa's favorite resaurant.
More pictures to come!