No 'Step' in This Dad...

With Dr. Asabi - 2011

Robert Earl Jopp, the paper work would say that he's my step-dad, but I'm here to tell you, there's no 'step' in this dad. For it is this man who is ... 'My Dad'!

Known as 'Pappa Jopp' to many, one whose smile and laugh are both contagious and very distinct. This is the man, one of two, who provided the structure and the character to teach this boy what it means to be a 'man'. Thank you dad! I can not say it sufficiently, all that you gave me. Thank you...does not seem to be enough.

Mom, Dad and Gpa Carter - 1977

My memories hold so many treasures. The 'Crazy Eight' adventure across the U.S., or wrestling with my buddies...and how you always seem to come out as 'victor'. Spending the summer of '73 removing a concrete patio, making way for the addition, or taking the first strike onto Bill Darlings wall, ending his procrastination. There was your morale and physical help both with my 'Babe Ruth' baseball team, or always the first to step up when we needed a helping hand with my 'Boy Scouts' troop. How is it that you typically seemed to have the upper hand as you rooted for your 'Cowboys' over my 'Fearsome Foursome Rams'? And there was never loss of joy as we'd be off with the motor bikes or a camping trip to 'Lake Elsinor', with a friendly game of horseshoes. We made a pretty good team! Maybe I should mention the 'Vegas' nights at the Leiran's, or for sure your gentle handling of that little 'hole in the door' incident. And most recently your tremendous support as we dealt with the deaths of Nana, my father and Alvin...wow! That's all I need to say. Wow! These ... they're only a few of many...the ways that you 'were there'...in my life.

With Gpa Carter - 1989

Loving our kids - 1985

As meaningful as the above are and how deeply they're held within the recesses of my mind, they take second fiddle to my memory of the love which you gave to our mother.  Your shared love for all six of us kids and your love of flying...forever to be remembered. Sure, as with any relationship, not without their struggle, yet I know how much you loved her. To the very end, you loved her. Thank you dad! And now nearly 25 years later, while married to Nan, the demonstration of your love continues to be a model of what it means to be a man.

A Family portrait - 1986

 The years are fast approaching, I look forward to times in which new memories will be forged. All the while letting the world hear the laughter of cherished memories from yesterday.

 

I love you DAD! Yes, I love you.

Though he did not give me life...what he gave is so incredibly significant...Thank You!

Writtin from 35,000 feet seems only so very appropriate, this beautiful February day in the year 2014.

Richard (Rick) Alan Williams, son of Robert (Bob) Earl Jopp.