Friday, March 18, 2011
Bert, Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. ...Wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow, Comfort in the midst of pain. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer. To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. My father in law, Ray, was truly a wonder full person. With an upbringing from the deep hills of Kentucky he became an outstanding person. Ray was motivated yet patient, great looking, witty, and always putting a smile on your face. A veteran from the Korean War, card expert, stock market guru, and he knew his horses. I met Ray on a return trip home from the University of Kentucky. We were buddies at the get go, as if we grew up together. But I was a city slicker and he a country boy. Ray was a down to earth honest person with skills most people take for granted such as farming, machinery repair, and respect for his peers. I remember a day when I was driving home with friends on interstate 75 when, as fate had it, my Oldsmobile custom cruiser station wagon overheated and pulled into the Walton/Verona exit. Wow what to do? I was perplexed? Then I thought about Ray, gave him a call, he showed up within minutes and fixed our car. Awesome! It saved us from being stranded and getting a hotel room. Thank goodness. I always enjoyed going to the farm with Ray. First off, the tractor ride was a blast and educational for a city slicker like me and my boys. Plus sometimes Ray, hesitantly, let me drive that beautiful blue ford tractor. His love for trees was intriguing and thorough. We usually hiked through the woods as he educated me on the different trees by bark and leaves and there history – Oak, Walnut, Cedar, Mahogany, Ash, Dogwood, Birch, and so on. He loved the farm as it is a beautiful place. He knew that land better than anyone. His live was blessed as he had a terrific and giving wife, daughter, sons, and grandchildren. God Bless. The Baldwin family is a generous caring family and a perfect example of how to live life. I loved Ray as a Father and will miss him dearly. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Love Always -Toby
