Today I am publishing one of those blogs that I wish I never had to publish. Last night, my grandpa and good friend, Moe Rammel, passed away. I miss him already. He was one of the kindest, gentlest people I have ever had the privilage of knowing and he taught me many thing which I will always carry with me.
Moe was raised on a farm, joined the military, worked in grain elevators, and also worked in the local Goodyear factor. He was your typical small town, midwest man, but he was so much more. A good way to describe him would be simple yet elegant. Which is ironic now that I think of it, because this is the description of how I wanted to live my life when I asked Amanda if she wanted to be a part of it for the next 50+ years. She and Grandma both agreed to marry us Moe, so we must have it a little bit right.
There are going to be a lot of people that miss Moe, but that just means that there will be a lot of people who can share their memories of Moe with others. I am lucky, I have a ton of memories of Moe. Mostly of our annual trips to Rice Lake, Ontario to fish, going to breakfast at the Lucky Steer, learning to play pinochle, euchre, and 31, gardening, those pesky rabbits, his appreciation of nature and history, woodworking in the garage, trying to eat the Dairy Queen out of ice cream, and especially of going to Grandma and Grandpa's to visit and seeing Moe sitting there at the table as you walk in the door.
Grandma and Grandpa gave me three very important things. Faith, family, and a work ethic like no other. They taught me that with these three things, I can do anything and go anywhere and people will respect me. I think I have done well so far Moe, but if I even have half as many people respect me as respected you I will be lucky. People loved Moe because he was kind, gentle, and patient. Always willing to lend a hand and take the time to teach those around him. I try every day to be just like you Moe.
Moe's life taught me that no one is perfect, but there are a few guys like him that get damn close, and Moe's death has taught me that life is a journey, not a destination. I hope my journey is as fun as yours was Moe and I hope you are proud of me.