The Pancake Man

Uncle Gary joined God in Heaven five years ago today. He was fondly known as "The Pancake Man" at the sheriff's station, where he worked. Following his memorial service five years ago there was a huge pancake breakfast held in his honor, a lovely memory. Unbeknownst to the family, every year since his death his co-workers held a pancake breakfast on the anniversary of his passing. This year they invited the family to join them--so sweet! Uncle Rick, Grandma, Sara, Adeline, Mom and I met at the Superior Courthouse at 6 A.M. yesterday. We got lost in a maze of buildings and garages for quite some time before the sheriffs finally spotted us on the security cam and guided us in, haha. At the entrance of the conference was a sweet sign welcoming everyone to the breakfast. One of the guys said they were supposed to add an arrow and the saying, "this way, Stupid." Funny if you knew Uncle Gary =). There was quite a spread, to include pancakes (of course), french toast, breakfast burritos, fruit, and bacon.  Sara wanted to put Uncle Gary's apron on Addie and she cooperated, although with no smile. We enjoyed nice conversations with the co-workers who knew Uncle Gary and those that are new to the department since his passing. People even came in that were on vacation (quite a testament to the man he was!). We visited for about an hour, sharing stories about Gary and discussing the military, since many are prior service members. Such a wonderful tribute to such a wonderful man!