Thursday, June 25, 2009

Reflections


During this past week we have experienced a very wide range of emotions as we had to say good bye to my Dad. On Father's Day June 21,2009 my dad, Van Larry Bulkley passed away. He was loved by everyone that knew him. It was almost impossible not to feel good after just spending a few minutes with him. He had a great attitude for life. He spent his life serving others. He was a true disciple of our savior Jesus Christ.


This picture will forever mean the world to us, as it was taken exactly two weeks before my dad died. We were so lucky to have been able to spend a picture perfect weekend with him in California. As we laughed (so much we cried), talked, watched movies, ate good food, played games and just got to be together. We never thought it would have been the last time we would have seen him, but we are so grateful indeed for these precious memories!


He will never know how grateful we are for him and the legacy he left behind with six children and sixteen beautiful grandchildren


My Dad was truly the happiest when he was around all of his family. I always loved to just sit and watch him play with his grandchildren. They all love him so much because he took time to play with each of them.

This picture shows him in his true element. This picture was taken while they were on their mission and Chelsea was able to surprise them and bring Tylie out to see them when she was just three weeks old.

During this past week I have found myself many times in deep reflection. I have been through just about every emotion there could be but I feel that the one that I have thought most about is grateful. I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for letting me come to such an amazing man. I know that I have a perfect example of what a father, husband, and Priesthood holder should be. This past week I have felt so strongly that even though my father is not with us here on earth he will always be there to help me and my little family when we need him. I know that if i can even be half the man that my father was then I will have lived a excellent life. We miss you so much Dad but we know you're in a happy place where you don't have to feel any pain or suffering. Thanks for all you have taught us. We love you more than you will ever know and can't wait for the day that we will be reunited and be able to spend eternity together thanks to the amazing plan of salvation.

13 comments:

Angie said...

Great words. Your dad was a wonderful, gentle man. He leaves behind a great legacy.

Tiffany said...

It is so true that he will always be watching over you and your family. You will be surprised at how you will be able to feel his presence with you when you need him the most. It was a beautiful service and he would have been so proud of all of you that day! We Love You!!!

Brownbellies said...

Shane I am so sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine what you are going through right now. I'm sorry I wasn't able to make it to the viewing or funeral I didn't know until afterward. Your dad really was wonderful and there is so much of him in you. You are great just like he was great. My prayers are with you and your family.
Emily

cori joyce said...

Shane we are so sorry for your loss your dad sounds like a wonderful man. Our thoughts and love goes out to you guys.

Tara said...

That was a beautiful post. We'll be thinking of you guys.
Love, Tara and Dan

Janetta said...

Shane and Chels, I'm so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Even though Andy and I only got to hang out with both of you two a few times during hair school, I remember you telling great stories of your dad. I know how much he meant to you both. You're in our prayers!

Nicole B. said...

We loved being able to see you guys! Just wish it would have been under different circumstances. We love you guys a ton and miss you so much.

Spencer, Erin, Parker and Ben said...

I loved your comments at the funeral Shane. They were touching and so beautiful. Your dad was a great man. Being at the funeral put life into perspective for me. Know that we are thinking and praying for you in your loss. WE love you.

Sahara said...

thank you I miss you too. i hope you will come to my baptism i like your blog to.

Bree said...

I am so sorry about your father's passing. I never met him, but knowing you I know that he was a great man. I am glad that you got to see him so soon before his passing. My prayers go out to you. Love you guys!

Anonymous said...

I love you Shane, Chelsea and Tylie. Thanks fo your beautiful comments about Dad

Kate Brotherson said...

So so sad. I am Sorry to hear you lost such a wonderful man. Good thing we have an after life where we get the chance to be with the ones we love again!

Mary Pat Carlin said...

Shane, I am very sorry for your loss. Although I never met him, or you, for that matter, Belinda has told me several times what a wonderful young man you are and how great your folks are. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.