It was March of 2015 when we met Smokey. My dad was entering residency in Maple Lawn Nursing Home after a several day hospital stay. He was weak and unable to return to our home. He needed some therapy, and he moved into the nursing home in room 110. Until this time, Smokey had occupied this room by himself. Although he probably didn’t want to give up any of his private space, he welcomed my dad with kindness that afternoon.
As the days unfolded, each evening Smokey would serenade my parents before my mom would return to the farm after her visits with dad. He enjoyed singing, and he shared his talents with them often. He also enjoyed visiting with each of us in the family as we made our way for visits with dad. Many an afternoon we spent in the dining room sharing a cup of coffee and a cookie or other sweet treats with the other residents, and Smokey enjoyed sitting down with our family.
Smokey made sure that dad got out of his room to attend special activities. Sometimes dad would forget the time, or be taking a nap when it was time for coffee, bingo, or going out to see special guests at the home. Smokey took it upon himself to help him move on out to join in the fun and activities. If you have ever volunteered with the Bingo evenings, you probably were aware of Smokey’s presence there. He was a stickler on fairness with the prizes and treats!
When my dad celebrated his 91st birthday in the activity room, Smokey joined us and many other friends for a noon meal that day. His laughter and good natured conversation brought encouragement to dad and to others. It was that day that I found out that Smokey and I shared the same birthday in November. He asked me if we could have a party for him when his big day arrived!. I told him we would think about that!
As the day grew nearer, we planned a noon lunch for him and some special friends that Smokey wanted to invite. He wanted an ice cream cake to top it all off, so we made that happen for him. He was so appreciative of anything we did for him, including fresh popped popcorn brought to visits. He reminded me often how much he enjoyed that.
Just a few weeks ago in the Fulda Free Press, there was a great article written about Smokey’s talents with Latch Hook. His beautiful creations can be spotted throughout the nursing home. The activity room where Smokey had a table full of his yarn and creations will seem empty now without his busy hands working. Oh how he loved to be creative. He loved to give my dad and our extended family pictures he had colored. Our fridge had several notes and colorful works of art given to us from him.
One of the noticeable things about Smokey, besides his outgoing nature and presence, was his strong faith in his Lord. He spoke often about the love of God, and how his life was spared after a serious truck accident some years ago. He talked lovingly of his deceased wife and his children and grandchildren. I know he was a faithful attender of the weekly Bible studies at Maple Lawn where he shared his faith and beliefs. He loved those who faithfully picked him up each week to attend the local Presbyterian church as well. There he also shared his love of music with solos and special presentations.
Smokey was a great room – mate for our dad, and his faith, music, kindness, and friendship was appreciated by all of our family. His name was pretty common at Maple Lawn, and anyone you spoke to seemed to know about Smokey! Franklin “Smokey” Brandt…you will be missed! May God welcome you with open arms into your heavenly home.
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