After graduating, he faithfully served his country in the US Army, serving his time in Vietnam. He was wounded twice in action and for his injuries received two Purple Hearts. During his short military service, he received many metals, to include the Bronze Star for Valor, the Conspicuous Service Cross, and others. Never a braggart, he rarely discussed his military service or the awards he was given.
On April 3, 1976, he married the love of his life, Sandra Louise Balderston. Sandra brought a daughter, Janet, into the marriage and Doc brought her up as his own. Soon after, they brought a son, Ian, into their union and their family was complete.
In the mid 80's, he moved his family back to Little Falls after getting a job with the US Postal Service and gave them a happy home and a comfortable life. His generosity knew no bounds, and he made sure his family's needs were always met.
Years later, his grandson, Billy, was born. Three years later came another grandson, Cody. Eight years later, his granddaughter, Shelby, was born. He loved his grandchildren very much.
He had a special place in his heart for his son-in-law, Roy and his daughter-in-law, Jessica. He loved them as his own and welcomed them into his family. They both became a very important part of his life.
Throughout his life, he made many friends and was loved by all. He always had time for a chat or to share a beer. He would invite friends into his home and out to camp and always made everyone feel welcome.
He retired from the Post Office in 2004 and at that time, began babysitting Shelby before and after school and on holidays and vacations. While most men would want to enjoy their retirement out fishing on the lake, or hunting, or just doing things for themselves, he was happy to spend his retirement caring for his granddaughter.
This is just one example of his devotion to his family.
He was also a great lover of animals. He knew every dog on his mail route and always had dog treats in his pocket to hand out to them each day. His own animals were not just pets, but a part of the family. When one of them would die, he would mourn the loss with great sadness.
The highlight of each day was 4:30 when Sandy would come home from work. The love he had for her was immense and very evident. You could see it in the way he looked at her, the way he spoke of her, and the way he couldn't wait for her to be home with him. Even at the end, when he was very ill, he loved to have her lie beside him on his hospital bed and rub her face. He wanted to comfort her. Even when we discovered there was nothing more the doctors could do, his first and foremost concern was for her well-being. The love and dedication he had for her is an inspiration for all married couples.
He was diagnosed with cancer in June, 2007. Shortly after, he suffered a massive stroke, disabling his entire left side. He endured chemotherapy and hours of physical and occupational therapy and never complained of doing so. His will to survive and win this battle was inspiring. He fought hard and gave everything he had to recovery.
Unfortunately, the tumor was too aggressive and in the end, robbed us of a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a friend who continues to be loved without measure. He will be greatly missed, truly adored, and always loved.
Some gave all. He was one of them.
