This morning I got the news that my Uncle Bud has passed away. When I was a little girl I called him Uncle Bug - and I remember being surprised to learn years later that his given name was Ralph. Uncle Bud was a gentleman. When I think of him I think of perfect balance. He was just the right amount of serious, just the right amount of fun. Uncle Bud liked to tease - and all of his nieces and nephews loved it! But he was also the kind of uncle who inspired good behavior. I never wanted to disappoint him.
I have always been proud that Uncle Bud and Aunt Elene are my godparents. They have always set a good example of faithfulness, and of all of us they were the most devoted church-goers.
When I was confirmed, they were there. I'm not sure if it was during a practice or during the actual confirmation, but I remember that when Uncle Bud put his hands on my head he gave me noogies! That was my Uncle Bud, blessing me with all seriousness, but adding his little touch of fun.
The last time I saw him was May 22, 2010 - the day I was married. Darrell and I chose to say our vows in the same little church where Aunt Elene and Uncle Bud said theirs over sixty years ago.
Over the past couple of years, as I knew Uncle Bud's health was failing, I often felt sad that I hadn't spent more time visiting with him at my wedding. I know he probably never felt slighted in the least - but it was important to me and I wish there had been more time. Recently, I realized that instead of feeling sad I should be focused on how lucky I am that he was there on my special day. It's a good thing that my last moments with him were spent talking about marriage and commitment; he was surely one of the best examples of those two things. He left me with the gift of knowing that my marriage began in a place that meant so much to him.
So, as we welcome little Elvis Rose and say goodbye to my Uncle Bud the circle of life is once again apparent. Life really is a constant cycle of hellos and goodbyes, of happiness and sadness.
Thank you, Uncle Bud, for the wonderful example you set for all of us, for the love and joy you brought into our lives.
You will be missed, never forgotten.
