Don Junior Platt
January 19, 1931 – August 20, 2018
Grandpa’s hands were worn and tired, but what a story they told. His hands helped keep the boilers going on the U.S.S. Valley Forge during his service in the Navy. His hands drove the “big rigs” on the roads to provide for his growing family, and his hands toiled and tinkered under the hoods of cars and in farm equipment for 35 years as a mechanic. Grandpa’s hands built pulling tractors with his children and grandchildren, and drove them in competition as the whole family looked on with joy and excitement. His hands enjoyed holding onto the fishing pole and reeling in the catch. His hands indiscriminately helped family, friends, neighbors and strangers. Grandpa’s hands showed love to his children and also served up needed discipline with his children. His hands held, hugged and loved one woman, his wife, loyally for 67 years. Grandpa’s hands loved the embraces of family, especially those of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Most importantly, grandpa’s hands took hold of his wife and children and led them to church each week. His hands held the bible so he could read the word of God, and folded in prayer so he could listen to, speak to, and humble himself before God. Grandpa’s hands set about the task of serving the Lord as best as they could. So, while grandpa’s hands may have been worn and tired in the end, they were so full of beauty because his hands gave life and love to so many. And now, I have no doubt that his hands are unashamedly raised in worship before the throne of Jesus Christ.
We love you grandpa. We’ll never forget you. And one day, after we’ve seen Jesus too, I hope you’re there to wrap your hands around us for another warm embrace.
Love, Deanon