"The Things I learned from Opa"

I can not put into words what it was like to have a Grandpa "Opa" like Gerrit.  He taught us grandkids many things from such a young age.  Opa taught me how to pee on a tire.  Opa taught me how to swim in my "brookies" (even if there where a lot of people around, it was OK!)  He taught me how to make the best brown sugar sandwiches in the "Whole Wide World" and even taught me a song about it!  He taught me how to love life, ride a bike, and sing loud (every time Opa would sing in choir I could always hear his voice over everyone Else's.)  He taught me how to work hard, respect my elders, and never throw good food away (a lot of times, even if it wasn't good anymore).  He taught me how to, drive a truck, never let the cows run out of feed, and how to get a kite untangled from a power line (even in San Diego this last August he made me get his kite out of a tree, with his instruction of course!)  He taught us how to smile, laugh, and have fun (some times a little too much, Tiger!)  But most importantly, Opa taught me to trust in God, read the Bible, marry a good Christian girl, and love my family.  I would not be the person I am today, or have the blessings that I have in my life, without the things I learned from "Opa".  We will never forget you (especially with all the pictures Grandma takes!)  We love you too Oma, thinking of you and praying for you constantly.  I'm writing with tears in my eyes, but hope this will bring a smile to your face.  All our love Dustin, Janey, Sydney and DJ