Ruben Brandt

I was reflecting on my dear brothers life, and hardly being able to comprehend that it's over a year since he passed away. Then I remembered I had actually saved a number of wonderful e-mails I had gotten from him. I was so blessed as I was reading them and seeing his personality shining through. He was a wonderful brother, husband and father. I'm sure his grandkids would also say he had been a wonderful grandpa. If any of you, my niece and nephews, would like me to send you these wonderful, priceless e-mails do let me know. I love you all and pray for you. 

Last night Michele talked about the old K-marts that are no longer there. I had a flashback of dad taking us to K-mart in the olden days. He always faithfully shopped for the groceries on weekends, and I loved going with him.

When I remember working with Dad in the earlier years, I always think about how patient he was with us.  He would never scold but just gently explain how to do the job better, even at times when he was under financial pressure.

When we saw Dad at Thanksgiving this year, he asked me if I knew of any plans for Christmas this year.  I said that I didn't know yet.  He said that if nothing was going on here, he was thinking that they may fly to Calgary for Christmas.  Little did he know that he would be celebrating the birth of our Savior with all the heavenly hosts in the presence of God himself.  What a sight that must be!!!  No objections to "Christmas" there.  Just joyous adoration.  I wish I was there to see it, but it will likely be some time yet.

 

Clearing the snow off of Dad's van last night reminded me of the pictures Dad sent last winter of the twelve inches of snow he had to deal with. The cold also reminded me of the time Dad, Randy and I worked in Richmond at Min-ho's farm. One morning it was -15 Celsius. Randy and I complained about the bitter cold, so Dad rented a large industrial heater for under the crawl space. We still whined about the cold, so Dad gave in to us and we went home for the day. He always took our complaints graciously. Then I think about all the cold winters Dad worked when he lived in the bush in Manitoba. I don't think he liked the cold either but he didn't complain about it.