I often process through writing and somehow this time I can’t find the right words. There is no way to adequately describe what this man has meant to me. I do not have the decades-long friendship with him like so many others, but when we met in 2017 God forged our friendship fast and deep. He was the first man who I learned I could trust to be faithful. I could count on him. I could count on him for advice on parenting, car repairs, home repairs, and tech issues. Pretty much anything I needed, he could figure out a solution. I could count on him for a hug, a good laugh, and a funny story. I could count on him for answers to questions I was asked at the office that no one else could remember. I could count on him for prayer when I needed it, a texted song when my heart was hurting, or a scripture to soothe my worries. When others walked out, he’d walk in and say “let me figure this out” and he did, or found me someone who could. When I had a flat tire, he followed me across town making me stop every so often so he could use his compressor to put enough air in to get me to the only repair shop open after hours. I hadn’t known him long when he asked me to teach his Bible Study one night because he couldn’t make it; then his plans changed and he showed up to listen! If it had been anyone else I would have been a nervous wreck. Somehow, he’d gotten me to understand that he respected me, trusted me, and believed in me and it changed my world. When he asked me to interview at Victory, he saw something in me that I didn’t see. He always acted like I could do anything, and his confidence in me opened doors I never imagined. He was able to see my heart in ways no one else ever had, and his gentleness healed places in me that had been broken for a long time. He loved my kids, and I have no doubt his prayers, advice, and care changed the trajectory of my family. I am forever grateful, and I will miss him more than I can express.
Papa Dave, being counted as a “half-daughter”, as you called me last week, is an honor! You took care of those you loved to the very end. What a beautiful legacy you leave behind. I know I’m one of many whose lives are changed. I miss you so very much, and always will, yet I am thrilled that you are finally free to worship Jesus for eternity. Your last words to me were “you’ve been such a blessing” but the blessings have been all mine. What a treasure I was given in your friendship, and I am forever grateful!
Maren loves and misses you, PD!
