Gerald Lee Ferrett

This is the letter I read to my dad when he as in the hospital.  It was not a goodbye letter because at the time we didn't know we were going to be saying goodbye so soon!

Dear Dad,

  I can't always tell you some things face to face, so I thought I'd write some things down.  We had the best childhood growing up on the farm because of you.  You taught us so much!  I can still picture you in my mind, the way you were back then.  You always wore jeans with your workboots and a white t-shirt.  Of course you always had your farmers hat on. We couldn't wait for you to come in from the fields or the barn.  We would cry to stay up just so we could see you, even if only for a few minutes, before we had to go to bed.  I loved the smell of your pipe.  I thought you were so big and strong and always felt so safe when you were home.  You were so patient with us.  I got my love of animals from you.  I loved when you would let us help you in the barn, but I never told you until now that I always gave the cows more grain then I was supposed to!  I remember bottle feeding the calves and trying  to get them to drink from a pail.  There is no one more kind, loving and gentle then you.  Of course you did have your limits and we knew when we went to far, we were disciplined.  Being chosen to go on the milk route with you was a treat.  I know I probably didn't help much but it was fun.  So much I want to say, you've always been there for me no matter what!  I wish I could do something for you now!  I promise to help Roberta and you as much as I can.  I love you and your strength amazes me!

                                                                                                                  I love you, daddy!!!!
                                                                                                                        Peggy