Today is my brother-in-law, Rolf's, birthday. Rolf would have been 60 today. He passed away a little over a year ago.
If I had to choose one word to describe Rolf, it would be WORK. Rolf loved to work. More, he needed to work. He worked in the yard. He worked in the house. He worked in his law office. He worked in the church.
Rolf and his parents escaped eastern Germany before the Berlin Wall went up. They arrived in America with little more than a fierce determination and faith in the Lord. Rolf watched his parents forge a new life in a new land.
Their example stood him in good stead when he served a mission for his church, graduated from college, and went on to law school. During this time, he met my sister, Carla, and fell head-over-heels in love with her. From that time on, his every thought and action was dictated by his love for her and their family.
They stood beside each other when they lost an infant daughter to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Faith that they would be re-united with her someday and their love for each other saw them through that terrible time.
In his last few months on this earth, Rolf did what he did best: he worked. He set up a family trust, making sure Carla and his family would be provided for financially. No detail escaped his attention, including having new tires put on her car.
The media delights in spotlighting Hollywood stars, athletes, and politicians who carelessly disregard their marriage vows, who dishonor their wives and their families with their selfishness. Rolf stands as a shining example of a man who kept his vows, who never tarnished his love.
So, for today, I am grateful for my brother-in-law, my brother.
Oh. . . . . I'm tearing up. This last summer was hard for Boyd and I to go outside and not have Rolf over the fence working in his yard. . . with his goofy hat. He was an excellent example of so many fine qualities. I've noticed that his children have many of those same attributes. He completed everything in this life that we all strive to accomplish. Find a wonderful companion, raise a family of children who are upstanding members of society, and love all around you. I too am grateful for Rolf and the friendship we shared.
ReplyDeleteWhat a marvelous man. I can just imagine how dearly so many people miss him. You are so right about the media splashing the indiscretions of Hollywood across the screen and grocery store tabloids. What an impression that leaves on young and old alike.
ReplyDeleteI love the unsung heros of the world. I know God loves them too and they're goodness will not go un-sung in the eyes and ears of the Lord.
Thanks for sharing!
What a valiant man. Jane, thanks so much for introducing Rolf to us. Know your family misses him dearly--as does our society miss having such men. Grateful for the Gratitude Project.
ReplyDeleteHi Jane,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the lovely tribute to dad. I think of him often and am grateful he was my father. Audra and Bobbe, thank you for your kind words. Dad really was a one-of-a kind, great guy.