Goodbye For Now

So, my Grandfather lost his struggle last Monday night. With my Grandmother holding his hand and wishing him farewell, he became relaxed and his breathing slowed. His eyes, though shallow, gazed at my Grandma with love and yearning. He seemed excepting, yet resistant that this time was upon him...but she insisted that she would see him again and that we all knew where he was going. It was beautifully tragic, as he finally let go. When his gasps for air slowed to a halt, the room was left silent for a blink of a moment, before everyone burst into sobs.

He was a miraculous man, and will always be remembered as Mr. Go-To. It's heartbreaking to think that he'll never accompany us on our treks to Thailand, but I'm glad we have those memories to hold onto. I had a dream night before last, and he was laughing and being mischievous as always. I miss you Grandpa...rest in peace!

William Ernest DeWitt

(Age 81)

On March 29th, surrounded by his family, Bill went home to be with the Lord, after suffering a stroke while in California about six weeks earlier. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Lucile (Downey); four children Tim (Chusri) DeWitt, Ben (Colleen) DeWitt, Jan (Tom) Hodl, Joy (Don) Calkins; 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren and sisters Betty Curry and Sue (Vic) Pfau. He was preceded in death by his brothers Bob and Tom. Bill was born in Daisy, Washington July 29, 1928 to Earnest andHazel DeWitt. He graduated from Columbia High School in Hunters,Washington. In 1952 he hired out on Northern Pacific Railroad as afireman and retired as an engineer after 38 years from BurlingtonNorthern Railroad. Bill and Lucile spent the next 20 winters as "Snowbirds", returning home each spring to their same south hill home of 52 years. He is fondly remembered to all as a master mechanic, willing to help any and all wherever he went. His big heart was filled with love for his family and many friends. We are richly blessed to have had him in our life and he will be greatly missed. To continue celebrating the memory of his life, please join us on Tuesday, April 6th at 11:00 A.M. at Glad Tidings Assembly of God, 4224 E. 4th Avenue.

My father, Tim DeWitt, William's oldest son, was stationed in Germany when we were children. Grandpa was sure to visit, and even at the tender age of four, I was keen enough to know that Grandpa coming to see us meant I was going to get ice cream. :)

People frown in disgust when I state that one of my favorite meals is tuna gravy on waffles...but I stand by it proudly!

He came with us on every trip back to Thailand...where my mother's side of the family is...and although her family is quite large, Grandpa's family over there extends far beyond our blood ties. He took his early morning strolls through the marketplace as always, and yet the language barrier never posed a problem with his astute ability to make friends and comrades through his travels.

Grandpa, you're a capable, honest, amazing man, who I hold great respect for. I will forever cherish you're mischievous nature and 'cat-got-the-canary' grin dearly. I love you Grandpa, and will miss you greatly!

Truly~ Amanda (Mandy) DeWitt