Thursday, March 5, 2009

Letter to the Editor

This is Rich's Grandpa, James Austin Cope Jr. This picture was taken in December 2008 just before Christmas. Since then his health has been declining gradually and he is nearing the end of his life here on earth. Here is a letter that appeared in the Spanish Fork News today...


Finding the Silver Lining

I have had the unique privilege of helping my grandpa the last couple of months with many of the day-to-day things that we take for granted. I have enjoyed this experience very much as I have been able to give of myself to a man that has done nothing other than give service to others his entire life.
I lost my job due to layoffs at my company late last year, but as I reflect upon that, I can’t help but think maybe there is a reason I haven’t found work yet. If I was working I would not be able to serve my grandpa in the manner that I have been, and I would not have felt the closeness to him that I do at this time. I can honestly say that I love my grandpa with all my heart, and he has helped to make me the person that I am today.
He reminds me of President Gordon B. Hinckley in many ways, because of the giant of a man that he is. He has served in many positions in his church, raised 13 great kids, served three missions for his church (including two with his wife), sealed most of his grandchildren in the temple, gave most of his grandchildren their Patriarchal blessings, and been married to his wonderful wife for 68 years now.
He has been very involved in his community where he served as Post Master and County Assessor. He helped to get me interested in politics, and always reminded me to get out and vote.
He has served his country in the military in World War II.
I could literally go on and on about the greatness of this man. I believe with all sincerity that my grandpa is one of the greatest men that has ever lived. Grandpa, thank you for your kindness, love and great example. I believe that many people in this community are better off today because they have known you, and been recipients of your service. I love you, Grandpa.
Rich Cope
Spanish Fork

8 comments:

Amy said...

I cried. I miss our Grandpa. Rich is a good egg.

Shannon said...

The Lord works in funny ways sometimes. I know that Rich has been a blessing to his Grandpa and Grandma and other members of your family during this time. I'm sure Rich is thankful for the time spent with his Grandpa these past few months.

Jennifer said...

Grandpa is a great man! I'm so happy that Rich has got to spend time with Grandpa these past few months. I know that Grandpa and Grandma have really enjoyed having him around. What a great article!!!

Janean said...

What a really nice article. I am sure many who read it couldn't agree more with Rich of what a great man our grandpa is. I am very envious of the time that Rich gets to spend with grandpa helping him out everyday and I know many other are as well. He will be so blessed for this and he has been such a great help to him.

Rohan Shearer said...

What a great letter and tribute from Rich. I'm sure his grandpa will appreciate reading it.

Jen B. said...

That is so sweet, what a great thing to do, a very nice tribute to his grandpa!

The Duvall Family said...

I think Rich summoned it up very well. If I could turn out to be half as good as Grandpa I would be very lucky. I have to say that Rich is one of the kindest people I know. He is such a fun person to be around and he would do anything for anybody. I know that Grandma and Grandpa appreciate all that Rich has done for them!

corrychronicles said...

That is so neat that Rich did that, He sounds like such a great guy (both Rich and his grandpa)