Martin J. Eldredge, age 79 of Springdale, AR, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 13th at his Springdale home.
He was born in Fayetteville, AR on December 18, 1941 to Thomas and Iva Eldredge.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Levi Eldredge, his mother, Iva Cleo Pritchard Eldredge, two sisters, Lena May Harvey and infant sister, Pearley Fay Eldredge, and his daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge.
He is survived by his wife, Lula Blanche Macy Eldredge, one daughter, Vickie Kennemer and her husband, Derek Kennemer, of Bella Vista, one son, Zeke Eldredge and his wife, Kim Eldredge, of Lowell, three grandsons, Jared and Grayson Kennemer and Dylan Eldredge, one granddaughter, Kenzie Eldredge, one great grandson, Asher Kennemer, two brothers, Lee Travis "Tommy" Eldredge of Springdale and Donald Eugene "Don" Eldredge of Kingston, OK, along with many loving relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Martin's life will be held on Saturday, October 2nd at 10:00 a. m. at Sonora Baptist Church in Springdale, AR, followed by a graveside service at Friendship Cemetery.
The Magnificent Life of Martin Eldredge
Written by his first born, Vickie Kennemer
My daddy…my dad…my buddy…my ROCK…To everyone else, he was Martin J. Eldredge, and to many of his friends and family members, he was "Big Moe."
Born on December 18th, 1941, on a cold Thursday afternoon, in his own home with just his precious momma and the doctor, this amazing baby was born. Twenty-four years later, along with his lovely young wife, Lula, he would become a daddy to a little daughter of his own…his first born, Vickie Lou. Nine years later, this same dad with his loving wife, would have another daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge. Nine more years later, this dad would finally get his little son, his forever boy, Ezekiel Talbot Eldredge. All three of his children were his pride and joy, and oh how he loved them.
Many people do not know this, but my dad had quite a rocky road with health issues from birth and throughout his entire life. At an early age, he developed Rheumatic fever from having a severe case of strep throat. This was the beginning of heart problems, kidney ailments, joint problems, and hearing loss. These followed him throughout his lifetime, but did they stop him from being happy? Absolutely not…he loved life, and life loved him.
Dad was the fourth child of my grandparents, Thomas and Iva Eldredge. His oldest brother, Tommy, lives in Springdale, while his youngest brother, Donnie, lives in Kingston, OK. He had two older sisters, Lena May and his infant sister, Pearley Fay, who have already traveled to their Heavenly home.
My dad and mother have resided in Springdale as long as they have known each other, which is forever. They grew up alongside each other in the same neighborhood, went to school together, and then finally decided they might give marriage a try. I am so thankful they made that decision, because we all know that their three babies would be coming along starting in three years after their vows.
My dad was a big burly man during his younger adult life. He never let anything happen to stop him from taking care of his family. Work was always close to the top of his priority list. Dad always had a dream during his early years that he would be a soldier in the Army, and do his duty to help protect his country from harm. Unfortunately, a soldier needs excellent hearing and this was one item that he failed on his physical. So, the next job opportunity he found for employment was to become a truck driver for Wilsons, Tysons, and later Cobbs. He traveled the U. S. delivering livestock to nearby farms and to coastal states. He loved his trucking job, and he loved talking on his CB. This was the time in which he was given the CB handle of "Big Moe," and that name stuck with him for the rest of his life.
The most important thing in my dad's life was his family. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great grandson. He was always found at football, baseball, and basketball games where either his son or one of his grandsons would be playing. The sports started with my little brother, Zeke, then came my oldest son, Jared, then along came my second son, Grayson, and then my nephew, Zeke's son, Dylan, who brought the sports back into my dad's life with his amazing baseball games. His only granddaughter, Kenzie, was all about driving around on the side by side with her grandpa, giving him lots of great big hugs, and displaying her athletic self with shows of tumbling and gymnastics. His last little pride and joy arrived last September. Baby Asher became a huge fan of his great grandpa. My dad learned quickly how to Facetime on his cell phone so he could visit with his newest great grand baby. Oh, the laughter that would come out of my dad. He had one of those laughs that you just had to laugh with him. I could listen to that laugh all day.
As I mentioned Face timing earlier, my dad did all he could to try to keep the communication flowing with his loved ones during this horrible Covid pandemic. My family did all we could to keep my dad and mother safe from the virus. As the virus continued to cover our world, our very own family was greatly affected by this sickness. My little sister, Titus, who had been diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension eight years ago, found herself exposed to Covid. No matter how hard she tried to overpower it, she was just too weak, and our Heavenly Father decided it was time for her to join Him. It has been ten months this week that my dad had to whisper goodbye to his second born child. He was not allowed to go into the hospital to see his little girl of 45 years, nor was he able to talk to her on the phone due to her being on a ventilator. Not being able to be with her at the end was absolutely the worse nightmare a parent could ever experience. I have worried so much as her birthday approaches and her one-year mark comes soon after. I knew it would break my dad's heart all over again.
In three weeks, I had made plans to take my dad and mother to Colorado with great hopes my brother would be able to join us. My dad loved vacations. He would travel to the big town of Branson, MO every year. He found himself in the Smoky Mountains, the beaches of Gulf Shores, and the cruise he went on, six years ago, that let him actually get the opportunity to swim with the dolphins…well, it was a dream come true for him. I think he would have lived on the Carnival Dream if it were allowed. I am so thankful that he was able to go on this particular vacation with us. As for Colorado, I think that trip is no longer needed.
We all know what happens close to the end of September. Yes, deer hunting season is about to arrive. My dad had been working so excitedly with getting all of his deer hunting supplies ready for the big day. Asking those important questions about making sure the cabin was ready for them all. He had already been into the woods with my mother checking out all of the work that was being done. Having difficulties walking in the woods near the deer cabin these last few years, my dad had a special place he called his own where he could sit in his blue Jeep and wait for the grandfather of all deer to make his appearance. Most seasons, he found himself enjoying just watching his family enjoy the season. He may say that he was waiting for that amazing 12 point to arrive, but we all knew that that 12 point was visiting his dreams while my dad took many catnaps sitting in the deer woods. Did my dad really love the sport, one might wonder. Well, there is no need to wonder any longer. Just check out the stacks and stacks of hunting magazines that found their way into my parents' mailbox daily. He shared them with everyone, but still did not have enough room to store the extras in his home.
My dad, that big strong man, never ever wanted his family to worry about him. As my brother and I have had to put pieces together to this mysterious puzzle that my dad left for us, our eyes have been suddenly opened by the clues that he left with us that he knew life was about to change greatly. During the past two weeks, he shared bits and pieces of information to myself, then to my brother, and lastly to my nephew in regards to certain important documents, his deteriorating health, and organizing medicine for my mother, who depended on dad to help keep her on track. Remember all of the sicknesses he had at the beginning of his life due to Rheumatic Fever? They were now playing a huge role at the end of his life, and God was about to take charge so His child would no longer have to suffer with them.
September 13, 2021…I never dreamt that it would be that phone call that would shatter my world. My dad, that great big teddy bear who loved to eat at any and all restaurants three times a day, beginning every morning with the Waffle House and finding his way to a buffet, Lamberts, or The Mercantile, had peacefully passed away in his sleep as his dreams carried him to each of his loved ones for one last glance and one last smile, then over the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and finally to Heaven. You see, my dad was a magnificent and faithful Christian, who made sure that his children knew all about our Heavenly Father.
Even though my heart has been destroyed as have all of my family members, as that news has slowly sunk in, I have had to stop and realize one very important thing that will get me through my days with as much peace and happiness as possible: When my time comes and I, too, step through those Pearly Gates, I know deep down in my heart that my dad will be waiting there for me with my sister by his side.
Until we meet again, Dad,
TOODLE DO!
Vickie Lou
He was born in Fayetteville, AR on December 18, 1941 to Thomas and Iva Eldredge.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Levi Eldredge, his mother, Iva Cleo Pritchard Eldredge, two sisters, Lena May Harvey and infant sister, Pearley Fay Eldredge, and his daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge.
He is survived by his wife, Lula Blanche Macy Eldredge, one daughter, Vickie Kennemer and her husband, Derek Kennemer, of Bella Vista, one son, Zeke Eldredge and his wife, Kim Eldredge, of Lowell, three grandsons, Jared and Grayson Kennemer and Dylan Eldredge, one granddaughter, Kenzie Eldredge, one great grandson, Asher Kennemer, two brothers, Lee Travis "Tommy" Eldredge of Springdale and Donald Eugene "Don" Eldredge of Kingston, OK, along with many loving relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Martin's life will be held on Saturday, October 2nd at 10:00 a. m. at Sonora Baptist Church in Springdale, AR, followed by a graveside service at Friendship Cemetery.
The Magnificent Life of Martin Eldredge
Written by his first born, Vickie Kennemer
My daddy…my dad…my buddy…my ROCK…To everyone else, he was Martin J. Eldredge, and to many of his friends and family members, he was "Big Moe."
Born on December 18th, 1941, on a cold Thursday afternoon, in his own home with just his precious momma and the doctor, this amazing baby was born. Twenty-four years later, along with his lovely young wife, Lula, he would become a daddy to a little daughter of his own…his first born, Vickie Lou. Nine years later, this same dad with his loving wife, would have another daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge. Nine more years later, this dad would finally get his little son, his forever boy, Ezekiel Talbot Eldredge. All three of his children were his pride and joy, and oh how he loved them.
Many people do not know this, but my dad had quite a rocky road with health issues from birth and throughout his entire life. At an early age, he developed Rheumatic fever from having a severe case of strep throat. This was the beginning of heart problems, kidney ailments, joint problems, and hearing loss. These followed him throughout his lifetime, but did they stop him from being happy? Absolutely not…he loved life, and life loved him.
Dad was the fourth child of my grandparents, Thomas and Iva Eldredge. His oldest brother, Tommy, lives in Springdale, while his youngest brother, Donnie, lives in Kingston, OK. He had two older sisters, Lena May and his infant sister, Pearley Fay, who have already traveled to their Heavenly home.
My dad and mother have resided in Springdale as long as they have known each other, which is forever. They grew up alongside each other in the same neighborhood, went to school together, and then finally decided they might give marriage a try. I am so thankful they made that decision, because we all know that their three babies would be coming along starting in three years after their vows.
My dad was a big burly man during his younger adult life. He never let anything happen to stop him from taking care of his family. Work was always close to the top of his priority list. Dad always had a dream during his early years that he would be a soldier in the Army, and do his duty to help protect his country from harm. Unfortunately, a soldier needs excellent hearing and this was one item that he failed on his physical. So, the next job opportunity he found for employment was to become a truck driver for Wilsons, Tysons, and later Cobbs. He traveled the U. S. delivering livestock to nearby farms and to coastal states. He loved his trucking job, and he loved talking on his CB. This was the time in which he was given the CB handle of "Big Moe," and that name stuck with him for the rest of his life.
The most important thing in my dad's life was his family. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great grandson. He was always found at football, baseball, and basketball games where either his son or one of his grandsons would be playing. The sports started with my little brother, Zeke, then came my oldest son, Jared, then along came my second son, Grayson, and then my nephew, Zeke's son, Dylan, who brought the sports back into my dad's life with his amazing baseball games. His only granddaughter, Kenzie, was all about driving around on the side by side with her grandpa, giving him lots of great big hugs, and displaying her athletic self with shows of tumbling and gymnastics. His last little pride and joy arrived last September. Baby Asher became a huge fan of his great grandpa. My dad learned quickly how to Facetime on his cell phone so he could visit with his newest great grand baby. Oh, the laughter that would come out of my dad. He had one of those laughs that you just had to laugh with him. I could listen to that laugh all day.
As I mentioned Face timing earlier, my dad did all he could to try to keep the communication flowing with his loved ones during this horrible Covid pandemic. My family did all we could to keep my dad and mother safe from the virus. As the virus continued to cover our world, our very own family was greatly affected by this sickness. My little sister, Titus, who had been diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension eight years ago, found herself exposed to Covid. No matter how hard she tried to overpower it, she was just too weak, and our Heavenly Father decided it was time for her to join Him. It has been ten months this week that my dad had to whisper goodbye to his second born child. He was not allowed to go into the hospital to see his little girl of 45 years, nor was he able to talk to her on the phone due to her being on a ventilator. Not being able to be with her at the end was absolutely the worse nightmare a parent could ever experience. I have worried so much as her birthday approaches and her one-year mark comes soon after. I knew it would break my dad's heart all over again.
In three weeks, I had made plans to take my dad and mother to Colorado with great hopes my brother would be able to join us. My dad loved vacations. He would travel to the big town of Branson, MO every year. He found himself in the Smoky Mountains, the beaches of Gulf Shores, and the cruise he went on, six years ago, that let him actually get the opportunity to swim with the dolphins…well, it was a dream come true for him. I think he would have lived on the Carnival Dream if it were allowed. I am so thankful that he was able to go on this particular vacation with us. As for Colorado, I think that trip is no longer needed.
We all know what happens close to the end of September. Yes, deer hunting season is about to arrive. My dad had been working so excitedly with getting all of his deer hunting supplies ready for the big day. Asking those important questions about making sure the cabin was ready for them all. He had already been into the woods with my mother checking out all of the work that was being done. Having difficulties walking in the woods near the deer cabin these last few years, my dad had a special place he called his own where he could sit in his blue Jeep and wait for the grandfather of all deer to make his appearance. Most seasons, he found himself enjoying just watching his family enjoy the season. He may say that he was waiting for that amazing 12 point to arrive, but we all knew that that 12 point was visiting his dreams while my dad took many catnaps sitting in the deer woods. Did my dad really love the sport, one might wonder. Well, there is no need to wonder any longer. Just check out the stacks and stacks of hunting magazines that found their way into my parents' mailbox daily. He shared them with everyone, but still did not have enough room to store the extras in his home.
My dad, that big strong man, never ever wanted his family to worry about him. As my brother and I have had to put pieces together to this mysterious puzzle that my dad left for us, our eyes have been suddenly opened by the clues that he left with us that he knew life was about to change greatly. During the past two weeks, he shared bits and pieces of information to myself, then to my brother, and lastly to my nephew in regards to certain important documents, his deteriorating health, and organizing medicine for my mother, who depended on dad to help keep her on track. Remember all of the sicknesses he had at the beginning of his life due to Rheumatic Fever? They were now playing a huge role at the end of his life, and God was about to take charge so His child would no longer have to suffer with them.
September 13, 2021…I never dreamt that it would be that phone call that would shatter my world. My dad, that great big teddy bear who loved to eat at any and all restaurants three times a day, beginning every morning with the Waffle House and finding his way to a buffet, Lamberts, or The Mercantile, had peacefully passed away in his sleep as his dreams carried him to each of his loved ones for one last glance and one last smile, then over the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and finally to Heaven. You see, my dad was a magnificent and faithful Christian, who made sure that his children knew all about our Heavenly Father.
Even though my heart has been destroyed as have all of my family members, as that news has slowly sunk in, I have had to stop and realize one very important thing that will get me through my days with as much peace and happiness as possible: When my time comes and I, too, step through those Pearly Gates, I know deep down in my heart that my dad will be waiting there for me with my sister by his side.
Until we meet again, Dad,
TOODLE DO!
Vickie Lou
Martin J. Eldredge, age 79 of Springdale, AR, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 13th at his Springdale home.
He was born in Fayetteville, AR on December 18, 1941 to Thomas and Iva Eldredge.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Levi Eldredge, his mother, Iva Cleo Pritchard Eldredge, two sisters, Lena May Harvey and infant sister, Pearley Fay Eldredge, and his daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge.
He is survived by his wife, Lula Blanche Macy Eldredge, one daughter, Vickie Kennemer and her husband, Derek Kennemer, of Bella Vista, one son, Zeke Eldredge and his wife, Kim Eldredge, of Lowell, three grandsons, Jared and Grayson Kennemer and Dylan Eldredge, one granddaughter, Kenzie Eldredge, one great grandson, Asher Kennemer, two brothers, Lee Travis "Tommy" Eldredge of Springdale and Donald Eugene "Don" Eldredge of Kingston, OK, along with many loving relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Martin's life will be held on Saturday, October 2nd at 10:00 a. m. at Sonora Baptist Church in Springdale, AR, followed by a graveside service at Friendship Cemetery.
The Magnificent Life of Martin Eldredge
Written by his first born, Vickie Kennemer
My daddy…my dad…my buddy…my ROCK…To everyone else, he was Martin J. Eldredge, and to many of his friends and family members, he was "Big Moe."
Born on December 18th, 1941, on a cold Thursday afternoon, in his own home with just his precious momma and the doctor, this amazing baby was born. Twenty-four years later, along with his lovely young wife, Lula, he would become a daddy to a little daughter of his own…his first born, Vickie Lou. Nine years later, this same dad with his loving wife, would have another daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge. Nine more years later, this dad would finally get his little son, his forever boy, Ezekiel Talbot Eldredge. All three of his children were his pride and joy, and oh how he loved them.
Many people do not know this, but my dad had quite a rocky road with health issues from birth and throughout his entire life. At an early age, he developed Rheumatic fever from having a severe case of strep throat. This was the beginning of heart problems, kidney ailments, joint problems, and hearing loss. These followed him throughout his lifetime, but did they stop him from being happy? Absolutely not…he loved life, and life loved him.
Dad was the fourth child of my grandparents, Thomas and Iva Eldredge. His oldest brother, Tommy, lives in Springdale, while his youngest brother, Donnie, lives in Kingston, OK. He had two older sisters, Lena May and his infant sister, Pearley Fay, who have already traveled to their Heavenly home.
My dad and mother have resided in Springdale as long as they have known each other, which is forever. They grew up alongside each other in the same neighborhood, went to school together, and then finally decided they might give marriage a try. I am so thankful they made that decision, because we all know that their three babies would be coming along starting in three years after their vows.
My dad was a big burly man during his younger adult life. He never let anything happen to stop him from taking care of his family. Work was always close to the top of his priority list. Dad always had a dream during his early years that he would be a soldier in the Army, and do his duty to help protect his country from harm. Unfortunately, a soldier needs excellent hearing and this was one item that he failed on his physical. So, the next job opportunity he found for employment was to become a truck driver for Wilsons, Tysons, and later Cobbs. He traveled the U. S. delivering livestock to nearby farms and to coastal states. He loved his trucking job, and he loved talking on his CB. This was the time in which he was given the CB handle of "Big Moe," and that name stuck with him for the rest of his life.
The most important thing in my dad's life was his family. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great grandson. He was always found at football, baseball, and basketball games where either his son or one of his grandsons would be playing. The sports started with my little brother, Zeke, then came my oldest son, Jared, then along came my second son, Grayson, and then my nephew, Zeke's son, Dylan, who brought the sports back into my dad's life with his amazing baseball games. His only granddaughter, Kenzie, was all about driving around on the side by side with her grandpa, giving him lots of great big hugs, and displaying her athletic self with shows of tumbling and gymnastics. His last little pride and joy arrived last September. Baby Asher became a huge fan of his great grandpa. My dad learned quickly how to Facetime on his cell phone so he could visit with his newest great grand baby. Oh, the laughter that would come out of my dad. He had one of those laughs that you just had to laugh with him. I could listen to that laugh all day.
As I mentioned Face timing earlier, my dad did all he could to try to keep the communication flowing with his loved ones during this horrible Covid pandemic. My family did all we could to keep my dad and mother safe from the virus. As the virus continued to cover our world, our very own family was greatly affected by this sickness. My little sister, Titus, who had been diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension eight years ago, found herself exposed to Covid. No matter how hard she tried to overpower it, she was just too weak, and our Heavenly Father decided it was time for her to join Him. It has been ten months this week that my dad had to whisper goodbye to his second born child. He was not allowed to go into the hospital to see his little girl of 45 years, nor was he able to talk to her on the phone due to her being on a ventilator. Not being able to be with her at the end was absolutely the worse nightmare a parent could ever experience. I have worried so much as her birthday approaches and her one-year mark comes soon after. I knew it would break my dad's heart all over again.
In three weeks, I had made plans to take my dad and mother to Colorado with great hopes my brother would be able to join us. My dad loved vacations. He would travel to the big town of Branson, MO every year. He found himself in the Smoky Mountains, the beaches of Gulf Shores, and the cruise he went on, six years ago, that let him actually get the opportunity to swim with the dolphins…well, it was a dream come true for him. I think he would have lived on the Carnival Dream if it were allowed. I am so thankful that he was able to go on this particular vacation with us. As for Colorado, I think that trip is no longer needed.
We all know what happens close to the end of September. Yes, deer hunting season is about to arrive. My dad had been working so excitedly with getting all of his deer hunting supplies ready for the big day. Asking those important questions about making sure the cabin was ready for them all. He had already been into the woods with my mother checking out all of the work that was being done. Having difficulties walking in the woods near the deer cabin these last few years, my dad had a special place he called his own where he could sit in his blue Jeep and wait for the grandfather of all deer to make his appearance. Most seasons, he found himself enjoying just watching his family enjoy the season. He may say that he was waiting for that amazing 12 point to arrive, but we all knew that that 12 point was visiting his dreams while my dad took many catnaps sitting in the deer woods. Did my dad really love the sport, one might wonder. Well, there is no need to wonder any longer. Just check out the stacks and stacks of hunting magazines that found their way into my parents' mailbox daily. He shared them with everyone, but still did not have enough room to store the extras in his home.
My dad, that big strong man, never ever wanted his family to worry about him. As my brother and I have had to put pieces together to this mysterious puzzle that my dad left for us, our eyes have been suddenly opened by the clues that he left with us that he knew life was about to change greatly. During the past two weeks, he shared bits and pieces of information to myself, then to my brother, and lastly to my nephew in regards to certain important documents, his deteriorating health, and organizing medicine for my mother, who depended on dad to help keep her on track. Remember all of the sicknesses he had at the beginning of his life due to Rheumatic Fever? They were now playing a huge role at the end of his life, and God was about to take charge so His child would no longer have to suffer with them.
September 13, 2021…I never dreamt that it would be that phone call that would shatter my world. My dad, that great big teddy bear who loved to eat at any and all restaurants three times a day, beginning every morning with the Waffle House and finding his way to a buffet, Lamberts, or The Mercantile, had peacefully passed away in his sleep as his dreams carried him to each of his loved ones for one last glance and one last smile, then over the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and finally to Heaven. You see, my dad was a magnificent and faithful Christian, who made sure that his children knew all about our Heavenly Father.
Even though my heart has been destroyed as have all of my family members, as that news has slowly sunk in, I have had to stop and realize one very important thing that will get me through my days with as much peace and happiness as possible: When my time comes and I, too, step through those Pearly Gates, I know deep down in my heart that my dad will be waiting there for me with my sister by his side.
Until we meet again, Dad,
TOODLE DO!
Vickie Lou
He was born in Fayetteville, AR on December 18, 1941 to Thomas and Iva Eldredge.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Levi Eldredge, his mother, Iva Cleo Pritchard Eldredge, two sisters, Lena May Harvey and infant sister, Pearley Fay Eldredge, and his daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge.
He is survived by his wife, Lula Blanche Macy Eldredge, one daughter, Vickie Kennemer and her husband, Derek Kennemer, of Bella Vista, one son, Zeke Eldredge and his wife, Kim Eldredge, of Lowell, three grandsons, Jared and Grayson Kennemer and Dylan Eldredge, one granddaughter, Kenzie Eldredge, one great grandson, Asher Kennemer, two brothers, Lee Travis "Tommy" Eldredge of Springdale and Donald Eugene "Don" Eldredge of Kingston, OK, along with many loving relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Martin's life will be held on Saturday, October 2nd at 10:00 a. m. at Sonora Baptist Church in Springdale, AR, followed by a graveside service at Friendship Cemetery.
The Magnificent Life of Martin Eldredge
Written by his first born, Vickie Kennemer
My daddy…my dad…my buddy…my ROCK…To everyone else, he was Martin J. Eldredge, and to many of his friends and family members, he was "Big Moe."
Born on December 18th, 1941, on a cold Thursday afternoon, in his own home with just his precious momma and the doctor, this amazing baby was born. Twenty-four years later, along with his lovely young wife, Lula, he would become a daddy to a little daughter of his own…his first born, Vickie Lou. Nine years later, this same dad with his loving wife, would have another daughter, Titus Dewade Eldredge. Nine more years later, this dad would finally get his little son, his forever boy, Ezekiel Talbot Eldredge. All three of his children were his pride and joy, and oh how he loved them.
Many people do not know this, but my dad had quite a rocky road with health issues from birth and throughout his entire life. At an early age, he developed Rheumatic fever from having a severe case of strep throat. This was the beginning of heart problems, kidney ailments, joint problems, and hearing loss. These followed him throughout his lifetime, but did they stop him from being happy? Absolutely not…he loved life, and life loved him.
Dad was the fourth child of my grandparents, Thomas and Iva Eldredge. His oldest brother, Tommy, lives in Springdale, while his youngest brother, Donnie, lives in Kingston, OK. He had two older sisters, Lena May and his infant sister, Pearley Fay, who have already traveled to their Heavenly home.
My dad and mother have resided in Springdale as long as they have known each other, which is forever. They grew up alongside each other in the same neighborhood, went to school together, and then finally decided they might give marriage a try. I am so thankful they made that decision, because we all know that their three babies would be coming along starting in three years after their vows.
My dad was a big burly man during his younger adult life. He never let anything happen to stop him from taking care of his family. Work was always close to the top of his priority list. Dad always had a dream during his early years that he would be a soldier in the Army, and do his duty to help protect his country from harm. Unfortunately, a soldier needs excellent hearing and this was one item that he failed on his physical. So, the next job opportunity he found for employment was to become a truck driver for Wilsons, Tysons, and later Cobbs. He traveled the U. S. delivering livestock to nearby farms and to coastal states. He loved his trucking job, and he loved talking on his CB. This was the time in which he was given the CB handle of "Big Moe," and that name stuck with him for the rest of his life.
The most important thing in my dad's life was his family. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great grandson. He was always found at football, baseball, and basketball games where either his son or one of his grandsons would be playing. The sports started with my little brother, Zeke, then came my oldest son, Jared, then along came my second son, Grayson, and then my nephew, Zeke's son, Dylan, who brought the sports back into my dad's life with his amazing baseball games. His only granddaughter, Kenzie, was all about driving around on the side by side with her grandpa, giving him lots of great big hugs, and displaying her athletic self with shows of tumbling and gymnastics. His last little pride and joy arrived last September. Baby Asher became a huge fan of his great grandpa. My dad learned quickly how to Facetime on his cell phone so he could visit with his newest great grand baby. Oh, the laughter that would come out of my dad. He had one of those laughs that you just had to laugh with him. I could listen to that laugh all day.
As I mentioned Face timing earlier, my dad did all he could to try to keep the communication flowing with his loved ones during this horrible Covid pandemic. My family did all we could to keep my dad and mother safe from the virus. As the virus continued to cover our world, our very own family was greatly affected by this sickness. My little sister, Titus, who had been diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension eight years ago, found herself exposed to Covid. No matter how hard she tried to overpower it, she was just too weak, and our Heavenly Father decided it was time for her to join Him. It has been ten months this week that my dad had to whisper goodbye to his second born child. He was not allowed to go into the hospital to see his little girl of 45 years, nor was he able to talk to her on the phone due to her being on a ventilator. Not being able to be with her at the end was absolutely the worse nightmare a parent could ever experience. I have worried so much as her birthday approaches and her one-year mark comes soon after. I knew it would break my dad's heart all over again.
In three weeks, I had made plans to take my dad and mother to Colorado with great hopes my brother would be able to join us. My dad loved vacations. He would travel to the big town of Branson, MO every year. He found himself in the Smoky Mountains, the beaches of Gulf Shores, and the cruise he went on, six years ago, that let him actually get the opportunity to swim with the dolphins…well, it was a dream come true for him. I think he would have lived on the Carnival Dream if it were allowed. I am so thankful that he was able to go on this particular vacation with us. As for Colorado, I think that trip is no longer needed.
We all know what happens close to the end of September. Yes, deer hunting season is about to arrive. My dad had been working so excitedly with getting all of his deer hunting supplies ready for the big day. Asking those important questions about making sure the cabin was ready for them all. He had already been into the woods with my mother checking out all of the work that was being done. Having difficulties walking in the woods near the deer cabin these last few years, my dad had a special place he called his own where he could sit in his blue Jeep and wait for the grandfather of all deer to make his appearance. Most seasons, he found himself enjoying just watching his family enjoy the season. He may say that he was waiting for that amazing 12 point to arrive, but we all knew that that 12 point was visiting his dreams while my dad took many catnaps sitting in the deer woods. Did my dad really love the sport, one might wonder. Well, there is no need to wonder any longer. Just check out the stacks and stacks of hunting magazines that found their way into my parents' mailbox daily. He shared them with everyone, but still did not have enough room to store the extras in his home.
My dad, that big strong man, never ever wanted his family to worry about him. As my brother and I have had to put pieces together to this mysterious puzzle that my dad left for us, our eyes have been suddenly opened by the clues that he left with us that he knew life was about to change greatly. During the past two weeks, he shared bits and pieces of information to myself, then to my brother, and lastly to my nephew in regards to certain important documents, his deteriorating health, and organizing medicine for my mother, who depended on dad to help keep her on track. Remember all of the sicknesses he had at the beginning of his life due to Rheumatic Fever? They were now playing a huge role at the end of his life, and God was about to take charge so His child would no longer have to suffer with them.
September 13, 2021…I never dreamt that it would be that phone call that would shatter my world. My dad, that great big teddy bear who loved to eat at any and all restaurants three times a day, beginning every morning with the Waffle House and finding his way to a buffet, Lamberts, or The Mercantile, had peacefully passed away in his sleep as his dreams carried him to each of his loved ones for one last glance and one last smile, then over the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and finally to Heaven. You see, my dad was a magnificent and faithful Christian, who made sure that his children knew all about our Heavenly Father.
Even though my heart has been destroyed as have all of my family members, as that news has slowly sunk in, I have had to stop and realize one very important thing that will get me through my days with as much peace and happiness as possible: When my time comes and I, too, step through those Pearly Gates, I know deep down in my heart that my dad will be waiting there for me with my sister by his side.
Until we meet again, Dad,
TOODLE DO!
Vickie Lou
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