Ashokan Farewell

Today, at the age of 88, Morris L. Haderlie passed away.

My Grampa was so amazing. Over Christmas break, my family took my grandparents out to dinner. That was the last time I told him I loved him. He couldn't remember me. But he was one of those sweet old men that, in asking my name, would say "Who's the pretty lady over there?"

My Grampa was born in Star Valley, Wyoming and grew up working on the H-triangle bar ranch, our family's brand. He married Esther Ann Minzghor and had eight children, one of them being my dad.

He really like this song, Ashokan Farewell. My dad and I would play it all the time -- Dad on guitar, me on the violin. When we played it for him, he would usually get tears in his eyes. It just touched him.

So today, my mom called and told me the news. I cried as soon as she told me. And when I got back to my apartment I played this song in memory and as a tribute to my Grampa.

Let me reiterate. Families are forever. And I will see my Grampa again. Thanks goodness for the Plan of Salvation.