Remembering Grandpa

During these last two years four of my remaining aunts and uncle have passed away. As Memorial Day approached this year I realized that I am now of the "older" generation. It is my place now to acquaint the younger generations with their ancestors they never knew.

Grandpa was born of pioneer ancestory. His mother passed away while he was a teen. He worked along side of his father in the cattle business and did much to support his older brothers and sisters financially as they became doctors, mission presidents. He is the first one on the back row.

Utah has a unique celebration for Memorial Day. As Mormons, we revere our ancestors and take the opportunity to show respect and love for them on this special day. Since my mother was born in Heber City from McDonald ancestors who settled the area, the cemetary is the place of rest for her, my father, and all of her siblings but one. This brings about a great gathering of cousins who come long distances to visit their parent's graves. The cemetary is a place to behold..laden with flowers and binding memories. My cousin Larry plays the bagpipes at three places..honoring each generation. I would say he is the "rock star" of Memorial Day because people plan their visit to hear him as the nostalgic sounds waft through the trees and gravesites. As we walked from place to place we passed many gathered families and heard them telling stories as they shared family history in writing and spoken word. I took the time today to tell about my grandfather Andrew McDonald. He is the only grandparent I knew since all the others had passed away by the time I was born.
This is a photo of my grandfather shortly after he married my grandmother. He reminds me a little of Gary Cooper the actor since he was tall and lanky. He was the silent type but had a very wry sense of humor and would come out with zingers every once in awhile. He died at 85 when I was ten years old. It was my first experience with death and had quite an affect on me. He had been a big part of my life. He would come to our home almost every day to give my mother physical therapy since she had been crippled as a child. I enjoyed his humor and kindness and grieved at his passing. I remember sitting at his home as friends and family came to give respect and comfort to the family. As each person viewed his body they would tell a story that would bring laughter. One night several weeks after his passing I had a vivid dream of him sitting at the end of my bed. I remember feeling love and comfort from him which allowed me to let go of the sadness I had been feeling.
My mother was the only girl of five children. Grandpa was so proud of his children and provided them with every opportunity. He was a properous and well respected cattleman. He became a cattle broker for the Wrigley family of California and shipped an annual cattle train to Los Angeles. I remember going to help him hay with my father. I of course only knew him after his active business life but found him to be a hard worker into his 80's.
This photos shows him with my older cousins. It was taken on Memorial Day 1942. He loved his family and his grandchildren. I consider him to be one of my closest and most beloved relatives.