Gilbert Lee Hettich

Grandpa was a steward for most of my young life. He taught me many things. Mostly, he taught me about patience, fortitude and faith. Even when faith is frustrating and seemingly silent, he taught me how to hear its answers. He understood the pressures I felt in seeking an advanced degree, and always provided counsel on self trust. Distance never seemed to matter because he was so grounded. I never heard him complain about ailments or anything related to his own suffering. I am grateful that as a new mother, grandpa was able to speak to and bless my son, Julian, after his birth.

A meditation he once shared with me involved imagining birds carrying your troubles over an ocean and dropping them down one by one. I will carry that image and sense of peace with me moving forward in his honor and memory. As a writer, grandpa had me schooled on the art of storytelling. I can only hope that how I write reaches the Gill-like stamina of winding tangents and flowered yet economical language.

"To make a long story short", I love you grandpa. Thank you for being one of my first teachers, providing lessons I'll carry with me and continue to pass down.

Went to grade school with Girbert and brother Phil may he rest in peace