Alex Remembers his Grandpa
Memorial Service November 3, 2007
Some called him Harry, others called him Pop…but I only knew him as grandpa.
I’m Alexander George Botham, one of the middle grandchildren. I get my middle name from my Grandpa, Harry George Botham. I’m honored to take two of my names from this great man.
Here are a few of my fond memories…
- Grandpa always had a pocket knife….a sharp pocket knife
- Grandpa was a teacher…Horseshoes, 2 for a leaner and 3 for a ringer…Cribbage card game, 15 two, 15 four…and spending one summer at Blue Lake, helping me break a bad speech habit I had
- Grandpa would sometimes let the ladies go shopping and he would stay back to work or to take a quick nap. Sometimes I would stay with him
- Grandpa was a problem solver, and he took pride in his work…I’ll remember a bathroom shelf in my parents house, a mouse extension tray at Grandma’s computer, a dish drying tray in the RV, and a custom dog perch for Binky, so she could look out of the front window
- Grandpa was a great listener…. He would lean forward, listening intently with constant eye contact. It was clear that you genuinely has his complete attention.
- Grandpa enjoyed taking a walk and loved his dogs, all of them
- Grandpa was a singer; I can clearly hear him and grandma singing. We’re travelin’ along….singn’ a song…side by side
- Grandpa was proud of his kids and grandkids and would brag on them to anyone that would listen
- Grandpa was open minded, teaching his family to be respectful and welcoming to everyone no matter their color or background
- Grandpa always seemed willing to have his picture taken. Whether a serious family pose…joking funny pose or while in action working on a project with someone
- Grandpa lived in service of others, and was a kind gentle spirit
I’m privileged to be a part of this family that grandpa and grandma built.
Thank you grandpa for everything you gave, I will miss you.
