My grandfather is truly an amazing man. Wilfred Beyerlin is affectionately known as Willie to those who know him well. To me, he has always been simply grandpa. He had always been exceptionally healthy for his age, and I guess I took that for granted.
My grandpa is many different things to many different people. He is the father of eight children, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and a friend. He is a great man of God, and is a good example of how to live as a Christian. God is an integral part of his life; he is involved with his church, and I have often seen him working on Bible devotionals. He does a lot to help other people. He brings his work clothes with him when he visits family members, and is always willing to prune a tree. He is also a talented artist, and I treasure all of the paintings, drawings, and carvings that he has made for my family. My grandfather knows how to have fun. He always has a joke to tell, and he sure can dance! He is a very wonderful man, and I am very privileged to have such a person for my grandfather.
On Christmas eve my grandfather was taken to the hospital after he got seriously ill. An aneurysm that had bled was discovered in his brain. The decision was made not to operate and he spent about three days in the hospital. From there he went to a nursing home where he could undergo physical therapy. He is now back at home and doing well. Doctors are trying to keep his blood pressure down to prevent further bleeds. My mother is very interested in hearing about any treatments for aneurysms that are alternatives to surgery.
I remember vividly the terrible heartbreak that shone on the faces of my family when we heard the news about my grandpa's aneurysm. My heartbreak was caused by the realization that my grandpa will not be able to be with us on earth as long as I would like. I am lucky though, I have the comfort of knowing that he will be in heaven for all eternity; presiding in the beautiful mansion that the Lord has prepared for him. I treasure every moment that I spend with my grandpa, for he makes every moment a treasure.