Eldon H. Campbell

To Our Beloved Father and Grandfather, We have many emotions flooding us now that you are no longer physically with us. Our hearts are deeply saddened, and the void that your passing has left seems unbearable at times. But when we dry our tears and take time to reflect, we realize that you are still with us – and always will be -- and we are so grateful for your love, guidance and friendship. Some of our first family memories as children were of attending Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the early 1950's, always together as a family. And here we are again at your beloved Bethlehem to tell you how very much we love you. Your life began 88 years ago when you were born in a small farmhouse in rural Iowa. You had great love for your parents and grandparents. You were especially close to your younger sister, Dorothy, who passed away just a few days before you. Sometimes you would reflect back on your farm chores, including milking the cows every morning at 5:00 before heading off to school. Although you weren't particularly fond of that chore, it must have been the forerunner to your stellar work ethic. After high school you ventured off to the city to attend business college. It was there that a lovely young lady named Gladys caught your eye. Being rather shy, it took a while for you to build up the courage to ask her out. Lucky for us, a friend gave you the little push you needed to take that bold step – and we're sure glad you did! You shared your lives as husband and wife for an amazing 63 years. Shortly after your marriage, you enlisted in the Army and proudly served your country overseas as a Captain during World War II. You and Gladys were stationed in several places stateside before coming to Denver. When you were sent overseas, Gladys stayed in Denver to await your return. At the end of the war, you decided to make Colorado your home and moved into your house in Wheat Ridge in 1945 – the same house where you raised your family and lived until 2005. You epitomize the values of your generation -- the Greatest Generation. You lived your life as a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Your faith, family and friends were of utmost importance to you. Your career at Duplicator Supply Company spanned over three decades. There were times when your job required late hours, but we remember you driving all the way home from downtown Denver to have dinner with us before returning to your office – that's how important family time was to you. Every meal began with prayer and each evening ended with devotions. You and Mother loved to spend time with us. You were never too busy for a game of catch in the backyard, help with homework, memorable vacations or a weekend in the mountains. You were a devoted husband, father and grandfather and have shown great interest in every aspect of our lives. Even as adults you have continually been there for us, and we consider you our dearest friend. There's never been a time when we couldn't go to you for advice, help or comfort. You celebrated our successes and stood by us during the difficult times – never judgmental, always with your special kind of unconditional love and wisdom. Ken has such wonderful memories of the many fishing trips and walks you went on together where you spent time enjoying nature and sharing your very special father/son relationship. Linda recalls how she could talk with you about anything and everything. You were a constant source of love and support and her guiding light. Ernie, your son-in-law, considers you one of the best friends he's ever had, and he cherishes the great times you've shared together. Tim, your grandson, has often described you as his hero. He admires you for your love of family, your sense of humor and your kindness. You and Gladys loved Stephanie, your step granddaughter, from the moment you met her, as she did you, and you always treated her as your very own granddaughter. We will never forget how you would drop everything and come running if any of us needed your help. You lived your life with such zest! You had a real passion for fishing, playing golf and being a loyal Bronco fan (whether they won or lost). We were ecstatic and relieved when you finally got to see them win not just one, but two Super Bowls. We sat nearby just in case your heart couldn't withstand the thrill. You celebrated in fine style! We absolutely loved your enthusiasm. When Ken and Ernie borrowed you from the nursing home for your last fishing trip to Jefferson, you told Ernie you were going to have a ""big big time!"" Indeed you did, and you even brought back the fish to prove it. At the center of your life was such a beautiful love story. Even as young children we could see the tender love between you and Mother. What a fine example you both set for us. At the age of 78 you underwent major back surgery, resulting in several weeks of recovery and physical therapy. When the young therapist asked what your primary goal in life was and why you wanted to get better, she was touched by your response -- ""To take care of my wife and see her through her Alzheimer's'."" In spite of your advanced age, you kept your home going and maintained your independence. You did the shopping and housework, prepared meals, took Gladys to the doctor and made sure her every need was met for many years until you were no longer able to drive. During the nine weeks you and Gladys spent together in the nursing home, everyone marveled at the spark that still existed between you. Often you could be found in the sun room, wheelchairs parked next to each other, holding hands. When separated, you would search everywhere for your beloved Gladys, still concerned for her well being and wanting to take care of her. Upon finding each other, both of you would light up with excitement. On that sad day when she passed away, we carefully chose our words as we relayed what had happened, concerned for the impact it would have on you. You sat quietly and cried for a bit, and then you turned to us and asked, ""Will you be okay?"" We have many happy memories of your 28 months at Wheat Ridge Manor and the wonderful care you received. It was difficult for you to give up your independence, but at the same time you welcomed the warmth, comfort and safety of Wheat Ridge Manor. We've often been told you were one of their favorite residents, and that was confirmed by the tears we saw the day of your passing. In spite of your declining health, you were gracious, friendly, pleasant and positively lovable. We remember Katie, a young aide, telling us no matter how hard a day she might be having, all she would have to do is see your adorable little smile and nothing else really mattered. Your beautiful smile lit up the world! How we are all going to miss that smile. Loving Father, Grandpa and dearest friend, how will we ever get along without you here with us? We take comfort knowing you and Gladys are reunited again and that you are with God. Family love knows no boundaries and your love will always be with us. Your wisdom, your faith, your friendship and your strength will continue to inspire us throughout our lives. We are grateful to have shared your incredible journey, we cherish every day we spent with you and you will live in our hearts forever. Your Loving Family