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More than statistics...life!

Young eyes, twinkling with mischief
I was given the privilege of writing an obituary for my father-in-law this last week.  It seems like I have a theme going here, but it is all good.  This is a reminiscent rendering of the official account.  Dad Kitchell was a good man and will be missed by people around the world.  He travelled to 48 different countries, spreading the good news of great joy.  That is how I choose to remember him as well…full of lively merriment!

Jim Kitchell lived.

He was more than statistics on a page; a man of the cloth, an adventurer; my daddy-in-law’s commanding presence filled a room.

Jimmy, as his mother called him, was born on October 30, 1929 in Denton, Montana to Dewey and Ruth Kitchell.  They named their baby boy James Bruce.  He was surrounded by four sisters:  Gayle, Virginia, Joanne and Jeanne.  He delighted in pestering them with his antics.  His quick wit and endearing smile charmed all.

Never one to sit on the sideline, Dad plunged into every task set before him – farming (His thumb was green.  He always gave me a hard time about how his tomatoes were ready to pick when mine were still in the thought process), a stint in the Navy and travelling the world to share the fabulous news of Jesus.  Devotion, passion and loved marked his life.  Dad could rattle off every car he ever owned.  He never met a stranger and could whip up a peach pie with a flaky crust, assuring me that I could do the same.  My crusts were never like his, and I do need to remember to add a pinch of nutmeg as well as the lemon zest to my strawberry shortcakes.

He left us on Wednesday, June 4, 2014, while riding his scooter in Boulder City, Nevada, the wind blowing his wispy hair.  This 84 year young wasn’t slowed down by anything.  No loss or heartache, like losing his oldest daughter, could replace the deep abiding faith and joy tucked into his being.

Those who are left, family and friends, are inspired to go everywhere, live wisely, laugh heartily and love in full abandon, knowing that faith puts Jesus in control. 

Romans was Dad’s favorite book in the Bible.  Chapter 12 verse 13 says, “Share with the Lord’s people in need.  Practice hospitality.” He did that!  So, “let the peace of Christ be in control of your heart.”  (Colossians 3:15)

Echoing in my ears… “Miss, can you fix me a cup of tea?”

Missy


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Comments

  1. Wildlife Art by SylJune 11, 2014 at 12:08 PM

    My child, you have covered Jim's life in a nutshell..I was so blessed to hear him teach on Romans 5 two weeks prior to him entering Heaven's Gates. He will be missed, but oh the seeds he as sown, and lives he has touched. I spent a week of remembering all the good times we all had has family as well as some of the hard times..but Kitch was steadfast in his love for the Lord and what God could and would do in all of our lives. Love Mom

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Missy AJune 11, 2014 at 4:56 PM

      Thanks. I think there's a bunch of remembering going on. Many smiles through the drippy eyes.

      Delete
  2. sewsavyJune 12, 2014 at 8:41 AM

    I think that is the most beautifully written eulogy I have ever read, Missy. I would be proud had it been mine. I am so sorry for your loss. Those empty spaces never quite get filled by anyone else. You just keep filling them with the memories. So beautiful! Hugs, Marlene

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Missy AJune 12, 2014 at 9:37 AM

      Thanks, Marlene. My daddy-in-law was a very special man to me and so many others. I have memories that could fill pages and pages.

      Delete
  3. sewsavyJune 12, 2014 at 8:44 AM

    That was the most beautiful eulogy I have ever read, Missy. I am so sorry for your family's loss. The hole someone leaves behind in your heart can only be filled with memory of them. Hugs, Marlene

    ReplyDelete

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