Grandpa's Funeral

My grandpa, Jack Huber, passed away on July 26. He was almost 89 years old, and he was my last grandparent to pass on. The funeral was held over Labor Day weekend and I was able to bring Ella and Hazel along. Grandpa served in the Coast Guard so he had a military interment with a 21-gun salute. He is buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo. alongside my grandma, Arline Huber. I'd never been to a military burial and I was touched by how poignant and direct and respectful the interment ceremony was.


The funeral service was held on Sunday and my dad gave the eulogy. Ella and Becca sang a duet of "I am a Child of God" (which was a small miracle that Ella would do it!). And my Aunt Sherry and Aunt Barb read scripture passages.



I have nothing but respect and good memories of my grandpa. He kept himself in great shape and was a medal-winning swimmer into his senior years, competing in the Senior Games, which, funny enough, is held where I now live. I remember swimming at the Civic Center by his house and jumping off the diving board as a little kid while he would swim laps. My grandma and grandpa spoiled all of us grandkids and would have us come stay with them for a week in the summertime to give our parents a break. I remember visiting tons of fun places because of their kindness. My grandparents were at my graduation from high school, they were at my wedding. I'm grateful to them for being a part of my life. I hope this will not be the last time I have a reason to visit St. Louis.