August 11, 1934 - October 12, 2010
We clamored into his oversize lap
Eager to hear his tales
Singing along to the Animal Fair
His involvement was wind in our sails
We gathered around the kitchen table
Seated at the head to lead us in grace
His hands were never too busy
To pause for a treasured embrace
When his back was turned
Balls would fly through the room
Often followed by:
No throwing balls in the house!
When we had a problem
No matter how big or small
Out came the paper and pencil
A diagram could solve them all
Then our family’s second generation began
Their lives started with baptism
Wearing Grandma Rita’s gown
Blessings, prayers, and oils he gave
Our families all grateful to have Grandpa around
Always searching for an adventure, wherever they might land
Their toddlerhood was spent holding his hand
Drawing him colorful pictures
And receiving whiskery kisses
Summertime brought some of his favorite pursuits
Like visiting the fair to eat all that was forbidden
Boating across Indian Lake to the donut shop
And sitting around the campfire, bedtime rules overridden
God graced him with endless gifts
Which he shared with everyone he met
His compassion, empathy, understanding, brilliance and love
Encompassed all, as he cast a wide net
He’s the man who would welcome a student in danger into our home
Or pick up a stranger on the side of the road
He was not only a husband, brother, father, grandfather, friend, and teacher
He was a man of God
Some of you know him as Deacon Jack
Others know him as Dr. John P. Stahl
But most importantly he was Dad and Grandpa Jack
Thank you J.E.B and my wonderful husband for making this tribute possible.
