There is something charming, serindipidous really, about the way in which the life of David George Hansen began and ended in the same place. The late blooming realization of this is quite ironic, given the long standing knowledge from the begining of time as written in Genesis Chapter 3
By the sweat of your brow
you will eat your food
until you return to the ground,
since from it you were taken;
for dust you are
and to dust you will return.”
These words have put on fresh clothes, presenting themselves anew, to be explored within the context of our grandfathers life.
From a small room, in a small town, the being of Grandpa was exposed to God's vast playground. In that same hand crafted home his existance in this neighborhood found its final breath. Like Grandpa, our lives will come full circle. The expereiences one wraps their circumference around provides solid insight on what was most important in their time here on earth. When we look though the scope of our grandfather's life, his expression of love offers itself most prominent. These loving illustrations were generously given to each one of us. Sharing some brief memoires will assist in honoring David George Hansen, ultimately propelling us to do likewise.
Grandpa's bright blue eyes and infectious laugh drew all of his grandchilden out to play. Some of our favorite times were : making homemade ice cream and indulging in some of his favorite treats… circus peanuts, turtles and divinity, hand-tapped maple syrup, and Grandma's homemade cinnamon rolls. Can you tell he had a sweet tooth? We played ping pong, captain jinks and skip-bo for hours on end. One of his favorite things, of course, was being out on the lake. Always up for our early morning ski runs, often asking,"Who's up?" Then giving a solid fist pump cheering us on. He would drive us from the cabin to their house, feet dangeling, as we sat on the tailgate of the little red truck. Always driving in style with a freshly pressed sweater vest and perfecly parted hair, comb in pocket. He was more of fashionista then we thought.
Most of all, our Grandpa was a man who took delight in the Lord throughout his life. Many of our days with him began with singing hymns, and prayers for all the family by name. We were always reminded and encouraged by him to be thankful for what we have been blessed with. Grandpa also took pride in his work and being a good steward of what he'd been given. Grandpa was always raking the seaweed on the beach and hammering those pesky nails on the dock. He taught us when you had a job, you finished it well with a gracious spirit. He always kept Hansen Hill Acres looking good! At home, Grandma could count on Grandpa to be right by her side doing the dishes after one of those fabulous meals. They were a partner in everything. He visibly showed us what it means to love in the way he adored his Betty. It was a true, honest, and genuine love. Loyal and steadfast.
So as we muse on the cirlce of time called life, we thank you Grandpa for investing personally in all of us. Providing honest insight to our lives and encouraging us in the Lord. Always, encouraging us in the Lord.
Thank you for modeling a life of joy, faith and truth. And really, for Just choosing to love us. Beginning to end.
