James Robert

How does one capture the love, admiration, and respect for one’s father at a time such as this? It is both painful and cathartic to do so, and I hope you appreciate my dad as much as I do.
He was my hero, as good a father as anyone could hope for, and the older I get the more I appreciate all he taught me.
There is variation in all systems and the relationship between father and son is no different. I grew idolizing him in all he did and was, as I grew older I assumed he didn’t know as much because “things are different now”, and of course as I grew older still I realized I was wrong yet he patiently waited for me to figure that out; always there, always supportive.
As I approach my later years I grow more and more respectful of him and the sacrifices he made to provide for Mom, Michelle, and me. Life is funny like that, just when you think you’ve got it figured out, you realize there is so much more to learn.
I love my Dad and appreciate all that he did more each day. I miss him and his death has left a gaping hole. I only hope I can live up to the example he set and that my children will look to me like I look at my hero.

My brother. I don’t even know how to express the love I have for him. He always, always had my back and knew what to say. I always looked up to him. He loved life and married his high school sweetheart who became a sister to me. I watched him become one of the best men I’ll ever know. He fiercely protected me and my two sisters.
He was so proud of his family and loved his grandchildren with all he had. He will be missed so much.
He suffered so much in his later years but never ever complained.
Someday we will meet again Spike and I’m looking forward to giving you the biggest hug. I love you brother. Be at peace.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but the first time I met Spike was actually a big brother interview to determine if I was worthy of seeing his sister and to ensure I passed muster under his watchful eye. He was not in the greatest of health at that time, but that did nothing to deter his passion of being the family patriarch and protector of all things Mouser. Fortunately, I passed that test 🙃. I came to know Spike as funny, witty, and a master craftsman. He showed me with beaming pride the poker chip case he made for Josh, and he would relate the tasks he and Josh had done in the garage that week. One of my fondest memories with Spike was the hot summer day he and I were able to successfully replace the tires on a wheelchair that Deby was using after ankle surgery. We couldn’t get the new tires on the rims, but as a tool and die maker he understood that slow and steady wins the race. After using several dozen zip ties, we slowly got the bead fully seated. His passion for doing things the right way and completing any given task will not be forgotten. His passion for the importance of family lives on today, and he will always be remembered as a great father, husband and grandfather.