Farewell, Grandpa Arnie

My mom's father, Emil Arnold Anderson, better known as "Arnie," passed away yesterday at the age of 87. He was one of Natalia's favorite people. It didn't matter how long we'd been away from our home state of Nebraska; every time she saw him, she would jump into his lap or run to him for hugs. He had been suffering a lot during the past year, so of course his passing was a blessing. Still, it's difficult to say goodbye to a man who was a pillar of strength, a strong role model, and a good provider for his family. He leaves a wonderful legacy behind.


My artist friend Kim and I spent quite a few evenings with Grandpa when Kim and I were in college at Creighton. Grandpa was a carver and woodworker, and he found a kindred spirit in Kim. She and Grandpa had no shortage of things to talk about. He loved showing her around his woodshop, and she even borrowed tools from him for her own college art projects. She sent me this message yesterday: "I really liked your grandpa. He was such a strong and gentle bear with the kindest eyes and smile. What sticks in my mind the most is how he just wanted to hold your hand and look at you with his twinkling eyes. He really received a lot of joy from you and your conversations. He will always be your angel."

God bless you, Gramps. We look forward to celebrating your life with the rest of our family in just a few days.