We are so privileged to have had the kind of celebration we did for my Dad, Paul Kendall. Campus Pastors Steve Southards and Ben Stears contributed in significant ways. Long-term friends Chester Meeks and Ed Richards shared stories that were both touching and halarious. My son, Luke Kendall, talked about his Grandpa in ways that brought tears to my eyes. I think he accurately summed up what the grandkids were thinking. Belinda wrote a biography of Dad’s life that captured much of the flavor of his life across the years. My brother Brad sang Finally Home. I loved it. I got to share the closing thoughts. I didn’t share what I planned because the night was getting later. So I thought I would attach it here. Paul Kendall Memorial Message GK part.doc. It was a fitting and honoring way to pay tribute to my Dad’s life. I am so grateful for the heritage he leaves. I closed my thought with the invitation to pray the prayer Elisha prayed when Elijah died. He asked for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. I know it is Christ that we are to follow but I do pray I could be like my Dad x2.
We enjoyed the support of our friends, Indian Creek, and Brad’s church, Woods Chapel Church of God. There was a ton of food and it was super to see friends old and new and soak up the support. Thank you so much! I’ve often heard people say, I feel carried by people’s prayers–now I have a new first hand experience.
The inurnment was the next day at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens. It was snowing throughout the ceremony. It as so beautiful with great big flakes. It reminded us of Dad because he loved Alaska and he loved snow. Ed Roche did a great job leading us through some devotional thoughts and prayer. Kristen Levitt, my daughter, summed up our thoughts as a family. We are thankful for the legacy of Paul Kendall and we want to continue it through the generations to come. It was a touching time. And we wrapped up in typical Paul Kendall fashion with a snowball fight. It all seemed so fitting. Thanks for your prayers. They are greatly appreciated!