Reunited in Heaven on Christmas Eve

Today, while on the eve of one of the most glorious celebration days of the year, my grandma "Oma" Sheldon passed away. While death is never a happy occasion, her passing is a little easier to take because of her relationship with the Lord, and also how she has longed for this day since my grandfather passed away around 12 years ago. You don't see a love like they had that often nowadays. I will miss her. I will miss her apple cider she used to always make when we'd get together for Christmas. I will remember all the times when I was a kid where she'd give me German candy and not tell me that it was filled with rum until my throat was burning from the first piece I bit into. HA! I will remember her dedication to God, and how even though you could tell she felt like half the woman she was after Grandpa passed, that she was thankful for every day that God gave her.

If I've never told you of the story between my Grandpa and Grandma, let me tell you, it could be a made for Hollywood story...

My grandmother grew up in Germany and when her first husband (a Nazi soldier) died at the beginning of the war, she decided to join the Red Cross and help people. She was also an amazing violin player from what I've heard, and played for many of the top officials in that time. My grandfather was a US soldier and was injured during battle. They sent him to a Red Cross facility where he met my grandmother and they fell in love right away. She, and the son she had with her first husband, came back to the States with grandpa, where they got married and had another five children.

I have fond memories of my grandpa when I was a kid. He'd do the grandpa thing and give me money on the side and tell me "not to tell grandma". He'd always make me feel like I belonged in the family, even when I didn't feel close to anyone, and felt like an outcast whenever we'd get together. Grandma was his silent partner. She'd say stuff, but he was the politely outspoken type and together they just radiated love.

I never knew my grandma as much as I would have liked, but I always had the utmost respect for her. She has left a legacy that few can leave. Oma, you will be missed. Thank you for giving me an example of how to love my wife, my family, and my God. Give Grandpa a hug and kiss from me, and tell Merry Christmas, and that I still miss him.

Merry Christmas in Heaven, Grandma and Grandpa Sheldon.

Love,
Your grandson