My Heart is Broken...

On Friday, May 26 my youngest brother was killed in traffic accident. He was on his way home from work, riding his motorcycle, when a young woman driving a van pulled into his lane to pass a semi truck and hit him head-on. It is thought that he died instantly. He was a wonderful man, husband, father. He was my son's hunting buddy, more like a brother than an uncle. He was active in his community - retired after 25 years as a security officer at the university in the town his family currently lives in, 17 years as a part-time police officer in the town they lived in before moving, active in other police work and training, Habitat for Humanity volunteer, Stride coach (mentoring youth), Conservationist of the Year last year in his county, active in Pheasants Forever and National Wild Turkey Federation, among other things.

He has given so much of himself to others. He loved life, had a great positive attitude, and treated every one with respect, even in difficult situations. At his visitation there were several young people there who he had had contact with when they were in college. They said he changed their lives for the better. I always knew he was a wonderful guy, but I did not realize how many people he had touched with his good deeds and positive attitude until I began hearing their stories.

My niece posted this on her Facebook page. Please read it and do any of these things you are able.

Everyone keeps asking my mom and I if there's anything they can do for us. Neither of us can ever think of anything. Lying here trying to sleep I finally thought of a few requests:
1) Be patient and attentive while driving
2) Do not pass unless you're 100% sure
3) Teach your children to count motorcycles
4) Go find your dad and give him a hug
5) Never leave your loved ones without a hug
6) If you love someone, tell them often
7) Do not litter, recycle if you can
8) Plant a tree if you can
9) Be kind, always
10) Find humor wherever you can
11) Tell people about Pappy (the nickname given to him by his co-workers when he attended a meeting in his overalls)

He will be greatly missed.

Levi and Mike hunting

 My son Levi, on the left, with his Uncle Mike.

He was a safe rider and was wearing his helmet and safety gear. He taught motorcycle safety courses.

I am concerned for the young woman who hit him. This is a memory she will have for the rest of her life.