Grandpa Reller

Sorry for my extended absence; things have been hectic at home. Rick's Grandpa Reller passed away Sunday night. He lived in Hendersonville, TN; Bruce & Beth (Rick's folks) go up there regularly to visit, usually every 4-6 weeks. Grandpa has been in poor health for several years now. He had a stroke awhile back, and he also had lung problems & had a really difficult time breathing, even with supplemental oxygen. He has been unable to travel for about 3 years.
Bruce & Beth were up there this past weekend for their regular visit, and Grandpa had an episode on Friday- my understanding is that they think he had another stroke. He had no physical strengh left, and then the 2 men tried to help him off the couch he collapsed. I was told he was in alot of pain, so they administered morphine. The ambulance was called, but Grandpa put up a fight. His wish has always been to stay home- which I totally understand. So, Hospice agreed to stay with him, and Grandpa was able to stay home.
I think he was just finally ready; finally done with being sick & in pain & unable to live any kind of quality life. He was 83 years old, I think. He passed peacefully, at home with all 7 of his children at his bedside.

We are leaving early Friday morning to drive up there, along with David & Mary (Rick's brother & his wife). The service will be on Saturday, followed by a big family party at Grandpa's house. Thats what he wanted. :) I told Rick, "You're having what the Irish folk call a wake".

Rick is doing OK for the most part. He is the oldest Reller grandchild, and has a lifetime of vivid memories of Grandpa. He is very sad, but I know he is glad Grandpa isn't suffering anymore. But we have had a pretty rough year. A year full of loss. Grandpa Reller, my Uncle Skip, and our beautiful daughter, all gone within 6 months.