Remembering Carl Power - In the words of family and friends

Carl Power, better known as "papaw", was more than just a grandfather. He stood as the patriarchal figure to a large and vibrant family. Papaw was a man, a real man. In my mind nothing could hurt him and he was never afraid. I often thought that he was born in the wrong generation - being a better fit as a gun wielding cowboy strutting across a dusty road in west Texas (this image was even more ingrained after a week in the mountains where he read aloud almost the entire collection of Louis La'mour to me and my wide eyed sister).  Papaw lived his beliefs, was fiercely loyal and stood up for what was right when others wouldn't - even in situations that  would have had most men back down or cower in a corner. He did what he believed was right, regardless of the cost. Papaw also had such a beautiful mind, seemingly unending knowledge of the scripture - or any other topic for that matter. It may have been a deep philosophical question or a simple discussion about the engineering required to pull his fifth wheel - Papaw's insights had me enthralled. I'd pay a high price just to sit beside him and ask his advice once again. I am looking forward to that conversation on "the other side of the river". I know he's there and will be happy to explain the in's and out's to me when I arrive.