Goodbyes

I was sad that I couldn't be at home with my parents today.

Today was my paternal grandfather's funeral. When I think of my grandpa, he always seemed old. He was 62 when I was born and by the time I was old enough to get to know him, he had slowed down quite a bit. Even though he was past the age where he would get on the floor and play with us (like my Dad does with Scarlett and Tanner) he was giving and patient with my brother and I, and I'm thankful for the memories I have of him.

I remember that he would help with cutting the wood supplies for my grandma's crafting.

I remember using his shaving brush to pretend shave my face when I would visit.

I remember my grandparent's always saved the toys in the cereal boxes for my brother and I.

I remember my brother and I sneaking into his diabetes drawer and snacking on his lifesavers and using his empty syringes as water guns.

I remember sitting with him during a family photo shoot and having him tell me how the first movie he saw in a theatre was a western that cost 10 cents and he had to sit in the aisle because it was so full.

I remember how much he loved his mother, and told me stories of how she was the fastest runner he knew and would chase him for entire afternoons when he was a kid.

I remember that when my grandmother was dying 7 years ago, and I went to visit her and ended up spending most of the time with my grandpa (as she was so sick) that I got to know him a little better instead.


STINSON, Goldie R. - Of St. Thomas and formerly of R.R.#1, Port Stanley, passed away at Caressant Care on Bonnie Place on Friday, July 4, 2014, in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of the late Ada (nee Delve) Stinson (2002). Dearly loved father of Grant Stinson, Carol Rieger (Blake), Garnet Stinson, and John Stinson (Chris), all of R.R.#1, Port Stanley, Ron Stinson (Jo-Anne) of R.R.#3, Shedden, Cathy Knight (Dave "George") of R.R.#2, St. Thomas, and Jim Stinson (Terri Scott) and Connie Clutterbuck (Bill), all of St. Thomas. Dear brother of the late Evelyn Jasper (1999) and the late Keith Stinson (2013). Also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Born in Dawn Twp., ON, December 30, 1922, he was the son of the late Luke and Mary (nee Johnston) Stinson. Goldie was a retired employee of V.M.E., St. Thomas and also formerly farmed. He was a former member of Shedden Lodge #310, I.O.O.F. Relatives and friends will be received by the family on Sunday, July 6th from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the SIFTON FUNERAL HOME , 118 Wellington St., St. Thomas (519-631-1160). A private family service will be held at the funeral home. Interment in Union Cemetery