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Life Sketch of Brent Gale Talbot
March 1, 1930
Written by Mitzie Rogers
Brent Gale Talbot was born March l, 1930, to James Orson Talbot and Annie Gale Talbot at home in Paragonah, Iron County, Utah. Brent was the oldest of 6 boys and 3 girls.
At birth Dad was named Brenton Gale Talbot, but changed his name later while in the service because he didn't feel Brenton was an adult name.
Early memories bring back thoughts of playing with metal cars, a prize possession, dirt, and images of roads and bridges. One of the favorite places to play was the southeast corner of the lot by the ditch. One day totally involved in play, Dad was disturbed by a. call from the south porch. Grandpa Talbot needed Dad's help immediately. Having a. hard time breaking away from played next is startled by Grandpa carrying a big stick. Trying to protect the doomed seat of his pants, dad placed his hand , still with metal car held tightly, across his bottom. Apparently Dad had provoked Grandpa because that sparking left dad with a mighty sore behind and a broken favorite metal car.
Another favorite place to play was the snowball bush in front. There used to be a fence-and a gate at the front of the house. A fence also went from the snowball bush up by the south porch. (These places are all' at the white house on Main Street in Paragonah) Grandpa Talbot planted all of the apple trees. (That is amazing because they always seemed so big
Dad attended school at the Paragonah Elementary until 8th grade. The school consisted of 4 class rooms, and about 30 children to a class. During elementary Dad was real skinny and was always getting beatin up. One day, Dad saw someone beating up on his little brother Bob at his Uncle Harvey's Store. Dad tried to help but got his right hand stuck on the top of a. bob wire fence.
Dad's favorite school subjects were Math American History, and Dad's least favorite subjects were Algebra, and English. Kay Robinson was Dad's best friend.
Being a "farmboy" brought lots of opportunity to help around the farm, Dad also had many other summer jobs and saved his money well. One of Dad's first jobs was working for Ed King He used to work in Kings yard and run errands for him at the store,
One day Ed King had Dad digging dandelions out of his lawn with a Dad thought that was such a waste of time and he felt so silly he soon quit.
Dad worked a. couple of summers at Utah Poultry plant for Truman Rollins. He also worked on Summit Mountain. He and Kay Robinson had the job of digging the tree stumps out with the horses after the trees had been felled. The wood was used for excelsus packing. Dad and Kay often took a tent with the horses and would just stay the night the mountain, Dad also had a. car so they could spend the evening in Parowan then drive back up to sleep.
There were many adventures up on the mountain. The other workers often stayed in tents too. There were many loud late drinking parties. Dad and Kay moved their tent down next to the stream away from the noise and drinking.
One day while driving down the mountain, the brakes in Dad's went out, He was unable to stop to open a property gate. The car took the gate right off the hinges and the gate road the rest of the way on the radiator of the car,
While Dad and Kay were in Parowan one night, the other workers shot 2 deer illegally. They then gutted them, skinned them, and hid in Dad and Kay's sleeping bags, so they wouldn't get caught with meat Dad and Kay were mad at first to find the bloody things in their sacks, but then made the best of the situation by cutting off the best meat before returning the deer.
Dad also worked for Marlo Topham on the State Road. Dad became good trusted friend. It got to the point where Marlo would say to him, what do you want to do today?"
While a young lad Dad went with the boy scouts to Yellowstone. there they planned a trip across the Yellowstone River in a cable car All the boy scouts and advisors loaded in a cable car and started across the fast moving Yellowstone River, Something went wrong a cable broke, almost dropping everyone in the river, The Park officer was able to fix the cable and return everyone safely to the but it took quite a while and everyone was pretty anxious and worried.
Dad returned home from this trip to find his prize horse he had to the ranch in 5 mile dead next to the gate, He had taken his horse up to the ranch with some other cattle so they could feed on ground cover and drink from the stream so grandpa didn't have to take care of them while he was gone.
Apparently the county agent had come up to spray the property for morning glory, had not seen the cattle and left the gates open, When county agent left he locked the animals out and they were unable to get back to a water shore, Dad said his horse was excellently trained could herd the cattle effortlessly and was very fast and loved to race. The horse was a great lose to the entire family.
Dad had another frightening experience at a family reunion at Panquitch Lake, Uncle Harvey took quite a number of the family for ride in his new boats The boat was overloaded. The boat was in the middle of the lake when a storm came up. The water started splashing over the sides of the boat. Everyone in the boat tried to bail the water out with cans. There were mostly kids in the boat. Everyone was and very scared. Finally ,the boat made it back to shore.
Dad went to High School 9-12 grades in Parowan. There were 14 students from Paragonah in his class, 7 girls and 7 boys, Dad was involved in many things in high school, Along with Sue Stubbs, he danced in a floor show for the Senior Prom. Limited somewhat by home to Paragonah, Dad still played for Claude Adams as a pitcher on the Baseball team and second string basketball. Dad was also FFA President for 2 years
Besides working and school, Dad liked to work on cars, play baseball, and volleyball. One of the biggest thrills of high school was Dad being able to buy his own car, He had saved his money from all his jobs and bought a 34 Ford Coupe with a rumble seat. He was the only boy in High School to have a car.
Dad basically dated two girls in high school one in Parowan (Mary Gay Lyman) and one in Beaver(Florence Woodhouse), Before Dad got his car, he and his friends had to be inventive to find a way back to Paragonah. If they were on a certain corner waiting the Greyhound bus would pick them up. So they would walk their girls home, then listen carefully for the bus to round the big turn at the south end of Parowan. When they heard the bus they had to run quickly to the main street corner. One had to be on time, and there were several blocks to go so If you missed the bus, you walked home.
After high school Dad attended BAC at Cedar. He lived with his cousin Ronald Gale. While at college Dad took Auto mechanics, welding, and other required classes. He really enjoyed the Auto mechanics. While in Auto mechanics he helped to redesign the engine of the school bus and build a. trailer for the farm.
Along with school, Dad drove the school bus to activities. He also helped build the field house and boys dorms. Reed Cox was his boss and he got paid 85c an hour. One time while at a school activity the bus door broke, due to. Dads welding experience he was able to repair it. It was quite a rewarding experience
After 1 year of college, Dad went to the Iron Mines and worked. After a year, he bought him a 1950 Ford for 2,420 he sold the car 30 years later for $1300.
In 1951 dad was drafted into the Korean vuar. His training camp was. Belvar Virginia He -took a. leadership school while there, he was an Engineer Private lst Class( the ranks were frozen) but worked as an acting corporal. His job was platoon parts specialist. He got raid 1-00 dollars a month. Alvin Roy became Da.ds special friend. Dad raid he’d go with him and watch his nice hydraulic wrecker.
In Virginia. it was Dad's job to help get the men in shape and ready to get transferred out. Dad marched along with the men and practise cadance. He would take the men on long marches. One day Dad was practicing with the men and felt a little lazy, so he decided to conduct the cadence frog the shade of E, tree lying down, All went well until he was discovered.
In Dads position he saw the men getting their calls mostly to Korea. Every now and then, there was a few men sent to Europe He was good friends with the company commander and quarter masters so he tried to strike a. deal with them, Dad had special hidden zipper boots that he kept only for special occasions and they were very well polished The deal was European orders for the boots. Dad got Korean orders, but the company commander somehow got them changed. The order change only left Dad 10 days before leaving for Europe. He made a. long trip home. Washington D.C.to St. Louis to Alberquere to Las Vegas then by train to Milford.
While on leave, Dad was looking through the yearbook trying to decide who to take out. He decided that Sherlie Smith was the prettiest girl in there. He said to his folks, "I am going to go out tonight and find her and take her out.
Dad being pretty confident in his car, rolled up to Mom s house and honked expecting Mom to run out. Well it was the policy at Mom's s house to not answer to horns. Mom ignored the horn, left through the back door and went to MIA. After MIA Dad was outside of the church and offered Mom a ride home. Mom took the ride. The next Dad came over again, but Mom couldn't go out because she had a cough, the next night Dad again came over.
Dad left for Europe and was gone around a. year. He and Mom agreed to write. Dad was stationed in Regensburg, Germany. He was one of four mobile units along the front that kept all of the bridges to be blown up if the Russians advanced. He was in charge of all the parts for the unit. He was fortunate to stay pretty much away from the action. He once saw a Russian plane shoot down an American plane. The pilot got out ok.
Mom and Dad were soon going steady and on Christmas Day 1952, Dad called and asked Mom to marry him. He had a specially selected keepsake diamond ring from McArthur Jewelers in St. George. It was hidden in package from Grandpa and Grandma. Talbot.
Dad got home in August and was married August 22, 1953 in the George Temple, by Harold Snow. After the wedding Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa Talbot, Grandma and Grandpa Smith headed back to reception already in process. It was at the Paragonah church, and Mom snuck in through the kitchen window. During the dancing the reception, Dad and Mom left early and escaped to a hidden waiting car. They drove to Fillmore the first night.
The Honeymoon began by washing out all of their clothes. The cat had gotten into the hidden car and messed all over their things. Mom and Dad traveled to the Tetons, Yellowstone, Creators of the Moon, Glacier National Park and Cardston, Canada.
When ask why did you marry mom? Dad said simply, “Because I fell in love with her."
After the Honeymoon, Dad and Mom lived in Cedar for 1 month in an apartment , then they bought a house on Kings Row in Parowan.(100 N.) Dads first job was a night watchman at the mines. He and Mom would spend the weekend taking turns watching the mines. They would sit in a bus, and take turns sleeping. Dad also worked for Grandpa as a car mechanic. Other jobs were Car salesman, and building cabins for Glen Heaton. Dad finally found a good full time job at Leigh Furniture Cedar City.
I first sat down and wrote a whole list of things I remember
about Dad and then I got out a letter that I wrote in 1987 to Dad for Father's
Day and It has many of the same examples. So I will put this letter right
behind the first and only touch on some of the things in this letter. I would
like this letter to become part B to ,June 22, 1987 letter. Tammie,
Natalie, and Beckie's letters of same date also.
January 12, 1996
When I think of Dad, I think of hard work. Most of what I
did with Dad when I was growing up, was some type of work. He always made me
feel so important and needed, that most of the time I did not mind it. As his
arthritis progressed; I could see that often he needed my help and I was glad
to give it.
We moved to St. George when I was 8 years old. In fact we
moved to St. George in the spring of 3rd grade about in March. We went back to
Parowan to baptize me in Sept. We had a great party in the back yard with all
the aunts and uncles, at the Parowan house
Before we moved to St. George, I used to mow the back lawn
in Parowan. Then the yard seemed quite large. We had a great back yard with
lots of grass, and a swing set and fence. We also had a set of fuel oil tanks
on wood stilts. We built some great tents under those fuel tanks. Dad would
also bring us boxes to play with.
I also remember having some great chats with Dad in the
Parowan bathroom. I would use the little potty chair and dad was over in the
little covey on the toilet. I probably used this chair up until we moved.
Early on, we went on trips with Dad in the old 'green' van.
Dad sold stuff and fixed stuff from Kanab to Las Vegas. I think this
stopped after Natalie was born.
One of my birthdays it was real cold, so Dad built a special
table and chairs in the garage for my party. The garage had a potbellied stove,
so it was warm. I remember that the chairs were paint cans.
When Dad started the store in St. George, ( Leigh Furniture
was established in St, George in the old Arrowhead Hotel). The motel had sat
vacant for a while. It was a grand motel. All of the furniture and things were
still in the building. Everything was very dirty and dusty. The motel rooms on
the 2nd and 3rd floor were turned into apartments. Dad stayed in St. George
during the week and every Friday after school, Mom Tammie, Natalie, age 3, and
I drove to St. George. Dad and Mom worked all weekend on the store and
then we drove back to Parowan. When we came to St. George for the weekend, we
stayed on the beds that were for sale in the basement or Leigh Furniture. We
thought it was great fun. Latter on Mr.
Leigh and Dad started to turn the old hotel rooms into apartments. So we moved
into the corner room on the third floor. There was no kitchen.
We had a hot plate and a tiny sink. There was two motel
rooms with a bathroom in the middle. The three girls slept together in the old
metal beds in the one room and Mom and Dad were in the other room. I loved the
great big old fashioned bathtub.
I don ‘t remember how many months we had been doing this,
but I remember the Sunday when we decided that we could not do it anymore. Dad
came to the car to tell us good-bye and he was crying. We all started crying.
He said aren't you tired of doing this? ( driving back and forth every week)
and we said yes. I think we stayed in Parowan for two weeks, then Dad brought
the big Leigh Furniture Van and loaded up our stuff and we moved. I am not sure
where we put our stuff. We lived out of the apartment for several months. As
the apartments were being built, they knocked a hole in the wall and turned a
motel room into a kitchen. The kitchen over looked Parkers Dress Shop. The tar
roof was a level below us. We used to find reasons to climb on the roof. We
also had a great view of the Tabernacle.
Tammie and I had the job of delivering the mail to all the
residents of the apartments. Every day we would go down to Dad's office and
pick up the mail. We always did it together, because it was scary. Some of the
people were scary, and sometimes we would find dead bats. To get to some of the
apartments we had to climb the fire escape. The stairs were metal and big, and
open and rickety. One day I shoved my leg through the hole in the stairs and
took a big divot out of my leg. I still have the divot.
I also remember going down to Dixie Drug and buying green
"secrets" throat pills and sometimes getting an ice cream cone.
We went to church at the Tabernacle when we lived in the apartments.
Primary was in the basement.
While we lived in the apartments we spent a lot of time at
night painting and fixing the new house. When we moved in only the upstairs and
T.V. room was finished. We also planted the lawn with seed and watered the lawn
by moving the hose. That took a lot of time. Dad did not get sprinklers until
about 12 years ago.
There were 5 pecan trees at the house. At first it was kind
of neat to have nuts,but then we all got sick of the nut knocking down projects
As the trees got bigger and bigger. It
got harder and harder reach the nuts. . Occasionally we had a good tree climber
for a boyfriend and they would climb in the tree and jump around. When all we
had was the stick and ladders to get the nuts down, it was pretty hard. Then
cracking and drying the nuts seemed to take the rest of the year. Dad was
always very particular about this project.
I remember Dad taking us fishing at Baker once and we all
had our lines tangled in about 30 sec. I also remember driving up to Cedar Breaks,
I think, once to fish. When we got to the lake there was snow, so Mom would not let us out of
the car. Dad went fishing for a few minutes then gave it up. He must have been
pretty frustrated with his crew of girls sometimes.
Dad was always at the store as I grew up. He came home late
at night after we were all asleep. I remember sometimes hearing his car
pull up and the keys rattle at the door. ( He had a huge wad of keys.)
Sometimes I would get up and go let him in and say hi. In the morning he was
usually still asleep when I left. Sometimes he came home at lunch and had a
short nap on the living room couch.
I remember doing mailers for a sale at the store. Tammie and
I would go down both sides of the street. It was real hard work. We did the
whole town. It would take us a week?
When I was a senior, the Dad's had to dance with us at
Jettette review. Dad did not make many of the practices, so we had to do some
homework. It was a real fun activity. We did great in the review. Dad rented a
tux.
We took several trips as a family. Dad worked hard to win
these trips selling carpet and stuff. The two I remember the most are Hawaii
and the Holy Land. Dad really liked to travel and see the world. He really
liked the Holy Land and Egypt. - He loved to show his slides and spent a lot of
time reminiscing this trip. The Israel trip was a real financial hardship for
him. It cost him $1,000 per head. I think he mortgaged the house to pay for it.
After high school, I moved to Salt Lake to get to the Bryman
School. It was at this time that my relationship changed with my Dad. In high
school my relationship with Dad was at a tolerance level. When I was at the
Bryman School, I really looked forward to Dad's visits to
Salt Lake. He brought stuff back and forth from Salt Lake for the store. He
also brought food and stuff for me. Sometimes Dad slept over on the couch when
he was too late to travel home. Sometimes I would go on his errands with him
and sometimes I would travel to St. George with him.
After I got married and we moved to Salt Lake, the same
thing continued. He was like Santa Clause. Every time he came to Salt Lake , he
had boxes of stuff for us. Jeff's mom always sent stuff up too. Every time Dad
came up to Salt Lake he brought things to fix things in our house, food or some
new carpet or a new bed or something.
The kids really liked his visits and liked to help him fix
things up.. Clint especially liked to help grandpa. Occasionally he went to
Tremonton with Grandpa to get "Lazy Boy' recliners. We did a lot of fix up
projects on the houses in Salt Lake. We sure appreciated all of Dad's help.
Dad had a lot of health problems. He developed arthritis 35
years ago.
This severe rheumatoid arthritis effected his whole body and
entire body systems over time. ( Grandma Talbot his mother and his sister Beth
also had this disease.)
When Dad was coming to Salt Lake he was robust. Strong,
alert, and he worked hard. He could load the recliners and drive all night.
That was 9 years ago.
In Dad's Patriarchal Blessing it says. .."That which
will come, Brother Talbot, will test and try your strength, courage and
ingenuity as did the desert wilderness that of your pioneer forebears. "
Dad's strength was truly tested. In 1974 he had a series of
severe headaches. It was my understanding that a blood vessel burst at this
point. In 1982, Dad had severe Gall Bladder problems and was rushed to Salt
Lake for surgery. About 8 years ago, he had enlarged Thyroid and had to have
radiation. Then 7 year 'ago, Dad started having "spells". These spells
turned out to be seizures. This was probably his greatest test. Dad had a grand
mal seizure on Dec. 20 of 1988. So he had to start the seizure medication.
This medicine along with the arthritis medicine that he was
already taking caused a lot of side effects. Dad did not like how it made him
feel. He was always sleepy and tired, forgetful and at times shaky. All this
medication made him have to go to the doctor a lot. Dad's arthritis got worse
because the different doctors were always messing with the dosage. Jeff finally
assumed care and tried to get the specialists to advise him. Jeff maintained
the medicine dosages. Dad also developed allergies to many antibiotics and he
always had a lot of skin itching, sores and dryness.
Five years ago, Dad's memory was having problems. Beckie and
Bruce wanted to buy the store. Mom, Beckie and Bruce convinced Dad to retire.
I was able to get him on disability, so he had some money
coming in. But he hated to sit home. He got his garage organized, and he
started fixing things up, but He always missed being around people.
All these changes made him really discouraged and caused a
lot of worry and stress, so he started having ulcer trouble. He didn't feel
like he was worth much. I tried to take him with me as much as possible. He
liked to go to Clint's games. He even went on several road trips and loved to
get out and travel.
He really liked to have the kids around!!! He really did!!!
He was an excellent baby-sitter. He tended for me during the day and when Jeff
and I went out of town. The kids loved to go visit him and loved to have him
come over. He made such a big deal over everything they did. He was never
rushed or hurried and could just visit with them. He couldn't chase the kids,
but the kids always stayed by him. He could keep Jon and all of his friends
entertained. I asked Dad to help a lot. He enjoyed it and I needed it.
He also took and picked the kids up from their lessons.
Again, the kids loved it, because he always waited outside their lessons for
them. They knew Grandpa was there and they would never have to wait for him.
They often waited for me.
Dad was always very helpful to me and came and fixed a lot
of stuff for me. When he was retired, I often hired him as my fix it man. I
would pay him a little and it gave him something to do.
As time went on Dad seemed to get weaker and sometimes
shakier. I tried to get Clint to help him with most of the big things that he
tried to do. Clint really enjoyed working with Grandpa. As he entered high
school, it got harder for Clint to find the time.
One day in Feb of 94, Dad was trying to redo the ceiling in
his bedroom when suddenly he had a severe pain in his left arm. Mom took him to
the E.R. and they discovered that he had a heart attack. He never lost
consciousness and in fact Dad thought it was no big deal. He really hated to
stay in the intensive care. He did not think that he was sick. The
hospital assured us it was pretty serious and we made the living will etc.
Dad bounced back from this heart attack pretty fast. He was
in pretty good shape with in 3-4 months. Back to his old self.
Then in Aug of 95, Mom returned home from work one day to
find that Dad had never gotten up. Jeff and I went up and tried several things,
then we took him to the Emergency Room again. He did pretty good in the E.R.
They discovered that he had had another heart attack. This time it seemed to be
a lot worse. We got him into the room and then he started to be in a lot of
pain. This time Dad became disoriented and combative. He was in terrible pain.
The doctors were giving him medicine, but not fast enough and not enough. They
didn't realize how tolerant his body was to the medications from his years of
arthritis and seizures. Jeff and I went to sit with him and let Mom go home.
Jeff was able to get the doctors to give him more medicine and we finally got
him sedated.
Jeff and Bruce gave Dad a blessing. It was my impression
that Dad would pass away. Dad had a peaceful night. We took turns staying with
him, so we always had someone there. The next morning when I went back for my
turn, I expected to see Dad near death. I was so surprised to see him sitting
up in bed laughing with Clint. I was mad in fact. I thought he was going to
die. I was mad for several days, until I had another impression. This
impression was that Mom was not ready for Dad to die. I felt that Dad would
stay until Mom was ready.
After this second heart attack, Dad did not recover fast. He
had a new doctor Patrica Bowers Jeff had turned over care after Dad's first
heart attack to Dr. Madsen. She was very
good and tried very hard to get Dad's medicines balanced. She started home
health care coming in, so Dad did not have to go into the hospital as often.
Dad did not feel good. He was very weak and shaky. After his
first heart' attack, he tried to return to normal activity. After this heart
attack, he did not want to go anywhere or do anything. He did not go anywhere
in his car. I would go by several times a week and he would ask me to get
little things to fix stuff, but it was very hard for him to get it done, I
talked him into getting yard care and I helped him get someone to service his
heater and plumbing.
One of the only times I got him out, was to go look at new
toupees. His was looking very bad and needed to be replaced. He wanted a new
one and it was hard to order it in. We finally got one in Sept. It then took
him several weeks to, get it fixed to wear. He was just running slow.
He was also very shaky and this discouraged him so much. He
could not stand much noise or confusion. His nerves were really on edge. He
could only handle visiting with the kids one on one for a few minutes. I did
get him to Clint's Homecoming football game in his wheelchair.
He often told me that he did not think he had long on the
earth. I poo pooed him and said, that he was going to get better. I never
talked openly with him about his feelings of passing. During this time of
illness Dad was very kind, and caring. He never let me leave the room without
him telling me that he loved me and how proud he was of me and all my great
kids. Every day I would come home to messages on the answering machine of
things he had thought of during the day that he wanted to talk with me about.
He would call me when he remembered.- It was his way of making a list. He would
often call and ask Clint about a sports game. He often called and ask what I
had been doing or just to check in.
Sometimes when we were away and he knew we were traveling he
would call and wish us well. The call would often turn into a prayer of blessing
on our trip and safe arrival. There was many times that I returned home to find
that he had ended the message in a prayer. He was always very appreciative of
the time I spent with him.
On the twins birthday, Nov. 9th, Dad and Mom went out to eat
with us at Chili's. (A new restaurant in town) We had a fun evening. Clint had
just made the basketball team and everyone was pretty excited. After dinner we
came down to the house and had ice cream and cake. We chatted for a minute and
took some pictures.
The next day I dropped off a picture of the family at the
house, but he was in the bathroom. He called me the next day and left a real
nice message telling me how cute he thought everyone looked and what a cute
family I had. He also told me he hoped that I realized what great good kids
that I had. I wish I had that message
saved
I ran in Sun or Monday to give Dad a shot. Grandparent day
was Wed the 23rd and he was rehearsing to me his thoughts on World War II. He
really wanted to go to Grandparent Day, but he did not want to talk about the
war. He wanted to share his Israel and Egypt slides. He wanted me to make sure
and ask the teachers what they thought.
Dad called me during the week concerned again about his
shaking. He wondered if Jeff didn't have some pill that would stop it.
Sunday morning Nov. 19th,Mom called me about 7:20 and said
that Dad had just had a seizure. She wondered what to do. When Jeff and I
arrived, we found Dad disoriented and in the same shape as the August heart
attack. We called the ambulance and they took Dad to the hospital. At the
hospital Dad was thrashing around all upset. I do not think that he wanted to
be there.
I was waiting in the hall, while they sedated Dad and got
the medicine going. Suddenly Dad had another heart attack and went into V-fib.
The E.R. doctors ask if they wanted them to resuscitate him and Jeff said no.
He came and got me and all the E.R. staff left. I walked in the room and Dad
was blue. I grabbed him and told him how much I loved him and what a great job
he had done on the earth. I also told him it was alright to go he had suffered
enough.
Mom soon came in and she was able to hold him too. He
quietly passed. They marked the death time at 8:30 a.m.
I am trying now to pull together some of Dad's life into a
book. Dad was a real camera person. He took a lot of pictures and slides
through the years. I have made a video of some of the pictures and slides. This
book will have letters of friends and relatives. I will also include some of
his army things. It will be a method of closing for me. I will fill the book
full of all the precious memories that I can find, so that I will have a place
that I can come to reflect and ponder on a man, father, grandfather and friend
that I won't be able to see or visit for a while. I will miss my visits with my
Dad and his council. I hope that my children will look through this book and
reflect on it. I hope that my children will also teach their children of their
grandfather Brent Gale Talbot.
Dad's patriarchal blessing gave him the charge to help his
family - return and live with Heavenly Father again, so I know that he is still
pulling for us and encouraging us even though we cannot see him anymore. Let's
not disapoint him.
By Tammie Brooks
I'm writing these memories to help myself and others remember a man I love and
will miss dearly.
will miss dearly.
When I
think of Dad I see a man who wore a plain short sleeved military pressed
shirt and tie at all times. He was usually found behind a desk with a phone in his hand and
a smile on his face. (Remember the picture on the note pad from Brent's desk - the desk
with the face on it.)
shirt and tie at all times. He was usually found behind a desk with a phone in his hand and
a smile on his face. (Remember the picture on the note pad from Brent's desk - the desk
with the face on it.)
When we were growing up it seemed like Dad was always at work. He left
when
we left for school and we were lucky to see him before we went to bed. I'm sure it made
dealing with all "us" women in his life easier. He also didn't have to worry about sharing
the bathroom.
we left for school and we were lucky to see him before we went to bed. I'm sure it made
dealing with all "us" women in his life easier. He also didn't have to worry about sharing
the bathroom.
The years I remember Dad the
most is when we lived above the store at Leigh's
Furniture in St. George. Leigh's Furniture was the old Arrowhead Hotel on the corner of
Tabernacle and Main Street--now where the new Dixie State Bank stands.
Furniture in St. George. Leigh's Furniture was the old Arrowhead Hotel on the corner of
Tabernacle and Main Street--now where the new Dixie State Bank stands.
When we lived in the apartment, and wanted to see Dad, we would run downstairs
to the store. At the store we had several secret places to hide and play. We even had a
fort, where we spent several hours daily. It really was a lot offun, the carpet racks made a
great hiding place and command post. We would climb behind those big rolls of carpet
and climb around, up, in and through it was like our own personal jungle gym,- money
bars - park equipment. Wow, what great times Mitzie and I had there. We always
to the store. At the store we had several secret places to hide and play. We even had a
fort, where we spent several hours daily. It really was a lot offun, the carpet racks made a
great hiding place and command post. We would climb behind those big rolls of carpet
and climb around, up, in and through it was like our own personal jungle gym,- money
bars - park equipment. Wow, what great times Mitzie and I had there. We always
I .
seemed to find a snack whenever we went to play. I'm not sure If Dad put one out for us,
or if it was really "our" find.
When we got bored inside the store we would then venture outside to the dock or
on to the fire escape. After almost falling through the stairs several times, and several
major and minor ow-ees - we finally learned to be careful.
on to the fire escape. After almost falling through the stairs several times, and several
major and minor ow-ees - we finally learned to be careful.
The warehouses were fantastic places to snoop. As children we never lacked
places to investigate. Dad's store and surrounding stores were loaded with them. Seldom
did I spend too much time in-doors watching T. V. because there were too many other fun
things to do instead.
places to investigate. Dad's store and surrounding stores were loaded with them. Seldom
did I spend too much time in-doors watching T. V. because there were too many other fun
things to do instead.
The warehouse was really fun during a parade. Dad would build a float for almost
every occasion. Dad taught us the fine art of napkin stuffing into chicken wire. If I
didn't know better I would have thought that Dad really enjoyed this. Even all the hours
of preparation, always seemed to really wear on Dad.
every occasion. Dad taught us the fine art of napkin stuffing into chicken wire. If I
didn't know better I would have thought that Dad really enjoyed this. Even all the hours
of preparation, always seemed to really wear on Dad.
Dad took pictures of each float from the beginning stages to its completion. Each
time he entered another contest, he'd make a part of the.float a little bit better. Either he
would change the fabric or motors might be changed- something was always improving on
the.float. When the parade time came, we always had the best seats. Parades at that time
came down Tabernacle Street, which just so happens was the street that Leigh's Furniture
faced. We either sat on chairs on the curb out front, or we watched it from the inside out
the big picture windows at the front of the store. Once or twice we watched the aerial
view from the apartments above the store.
time he entered another contest, he'd make a part of the.float a little bit better. Either he
would change the fabric or motors might be changed- something was always improving on
the.float. When the parade time came, we always had the best seats. Parades at that time
came down Tabernacle Street, which just so happens was the street that Leigh's Furniture
faced. We either sat on chairs on the curb out front, or we watched it from the inside out
the big picture windows at the front of the store. Once or twice we watched the aerial
view from the apartments above the store.
I'm not sure which was more fun, the watching or eating of the treats. Dad gave us a bribe to stay seated (treats to eat while we watched the parade).
Our weekend apartment (Father was living here all week long while we lived in
Parowan) sure wasn't much, but we sure had some fun there. Months before we moved in
permanently, we would travel back and forth from Parowan to see Dad on the weekends.
Mother was concerned about us changing school in the middle of the year, so this seemed
the best solution at the time. It was very difficult for mother to keep up this schedule, so
we finally ended up selling the home in Parowan and moving to St. George even tho our
new home wasn't quite yet finished. I was about eight when all this happened.
Parowan) sure wasn't much, but we sure had some fun there. Months before we moved in
permanently, we would travel back and forth from Parowan to see Dad on the weekends.
Mother was concerned about us changing school in the middle of the year, so this seemed
the best solution at the time. It was very difficult for mother to keep up this schedule, so
we finally ended up selling the home in Parowan and moving to St. George even tho our
new home wasn't quite yet finished. I was about eight when all this happened.
I remember it took the longest time to convert our apartment. It was originally
three motel rooms. We had two bedrooms and a large open area that was our bathroom,
kitchen, and living room. I remember watching Mom cook on a hotplate and washing our
dishes in the bathroom sink. What fun memories this brings back for me. We had a very
unique night light. The old neon Arrowhead Hotel sign was right outside our bedroom
window. I remember counting cars going by, and watching the flashing of the sign to go
to sleep at night.
three motel rooms. We had two bedrooms and a large open area that was our bathroom,
kitchen, and living room. I remember watching Mom cook on a hotplate and washing our
dishes in the bathroom sink. What fun memories this brings back for me. We had a very
unique night light. The old neon Arrowhead Hotel sign was right outside our bedroom
window. I remember counting cars going by, and watching the flashing of the sign to go
to sleep at night.
At a
young age Mitzie and I learned how to properly check and close the store:
what lamps needed to be kept on, what doors to lock and close, and what windows to
lock and bolt. Nightly we made the rounds with Dad (or followed like shadows) as he
locked up. What a routine Dad had. If something was not done correctly, he would pick
up on it in a second. It had to be a certain way only!
what lamps needed to be kept on, what doors to lock and close, and what windows to
lock and bolt. Nightly we made the rounds with Dad (or followed like shadows) as he
locked up. What a routine Dad had. If something was not done correctly, he would pick
up on it in a second. It had to be a certain way only!
Dad taught us the importance of daily inventory, how everything should
have a
place, and that tomorrow's list should be made up if it wasn't completed today. Dad 'kept
a running "to do" list in his pocket at all times, When he saw things that needed his
attention, he quickly retrieved the notebook, and added them to his famous "to do" list.
Dad would never be found without a pocket note book and a small sharp pencil.
Everything could be found in that notebook. Lists of what he had to do, who he had to
call, and what he needed to pick up. Heaven forbid if he ever lost that notebook or
misplaced it for a moment. We all heard about it until it was found. As he accomplished
these tasks, they were crossed off. The notebook page was never torn out or thrown
away until the whole notebook has been used completely (both sides of each paper). We
could never convert Dad to the Franklin Planner because, it wouldn't fit in his pocket.
Thanks to Dad we are all list makers. Hopefully these list are getting accomplished as he
taught all of us to do.
place, and that tomorrow's list should be made up if it wasn't completed today. Dad 'kept
a running "to do" list in his pocket at all times, When he saw things that needed his
attention, he quickly retrieved the notebook, and added them to his famous "to do" list.
Dad would never be found without a pocket note book and a small sharp pencil.
Everything could be found in that notebook. Lists of what he had to do, who he had to
call, and what he needed to pick up. Heaven forbid if he ever lost that notebook or
misplaced it for a moment. We all heard about it until it was found. As he accomplished
these tasks, they were crossed off. The notebook page was never torn out or thrown
away until the whole notebook has been used completely (both sides of each paper). We
could never convert Dad to the Franklin Planner because, it wouldn't fit in his pocket.
Thanks to Dad we are all list makers. Hopefully these list are getting accomplished as he
taught all of us to do.
If we ever needed anything, we would first check with Dad. If he didn't have it in
his pockets he would direct you to were it could be found. He usually kept things under
lock and key so he was pretty sure of their location. We jokingly teased him about his key
chain, but you would need a key chain that big if you paddle locked everything up. Dad's
pockets were an amazing cornucopia of supplies. Just to list a few; scissors, clippers,
his pockets he would direct you to were it could be found. He usually kept things under
lock and key so he was pretty sure of their location. We jokingly teased him about his key
chain, but you would need a key chain that big if you paddle locked everything up. Dad's
pockets were an amazing cornucopia of supplies. Just to list a few; scissors, clippers,
keys, flashlight, toothpicks, and butter rum life savers (his favorite Life Saver, and now
ours). His pocket collection soon expanded into two handled bags which he carried with
him back and forth daily to the store. One of the bags usually carried his medication, and
the other carried ledgers he had to work on or call about that night. We were always
looking for new and better bags for Dad. Bags that were bigger, stronger, and with longer
handles.
ours). His pocket collection soon expanded into two handled bags which he carried with
him back and forth daily to the store. One of the bags usually carried his medication, and
the other carried ledgers he had to work on or call about that night. We were always
looking for new and better bags for Dad. Bags that were bigger, stronger, and with longer
handles.
I remember two brown very important ledger boxes kept in the fridge. ( I wonder
if this stopped the interest rate?) Possibly the fridge served as a cheap fire safe. Dad
if this stopped the interest rate?) Possibly the fridge served as a cheap fire safe. Dad
made his ledger boxes from plywood and painted them brown. Working on these ledgers
was a nightly task for Dad. Dad entered by hand all daily receipts onto these. Those that
he had not completed at work, were brought home (via the two handled bags) to work or
call on. These ledgers that were carried back and forth usually were the delinquent
accounts. Dad was well known for his record keeping comments. No payment was ever
entered on a ledger without a comment. Comments might consist of anything from
"Thanks ," Brent, to several paragraphs of writing. Dad had good hand writing and could
write amazingly small with a pall point pen.
was a nightly task for Dad. Dad entered by hand all daily receipts onto these. Those that
he had not completed at work, were brought home (via the two handled bags) to work or
call on. These ledgers that were carried back and forth usually were the delinquent
accounts. Dad was well known for his record keeping comments. No payment was ever
entered on a ledger without a comment. Comments might consist of anything from
"Thanks ," Brent, to several paragraphs of writing. Dad had good hand writing and could
write amazingly small with a pall point pen.
Dad had great pride irt the Leigh's Furniture Store, but he only served as a
manager even though he longed to have his own store. Dad and three of his friends:
manager even though he longed to have his own store. Dad and three of his friends:
Lonnie Truman, Lonnie's Dad, and Haze Hunter
ventured out on their own and formed
Dixie Interiors. It had it first location on 100 East between Tabernacle and St. George
Blvd. about where the Center Department Store once resided and where ZCMI now
resides. It was directly behind what then was the Utah State Liquor Store. It was a lot
smaller store and only had one level (dam no more secret stair fort).
Dixie Interiors. It had it first location on 100 East between Tabernacle and St. George
Blvd. about where the Center Department Store once resided and where ZCMI now
resides. It was directly behind what then was the Utah State Liquor Store. It was a lot
smaller store and only had one level (dam no more secret stair fort).
At this store, we witnesses the making ofmany of Dad's anti-theft inventions. The
first was the steel bathroom window cover and latch. This would be placed over the long
skinny bathroom window, closed, and latched nightly. The dock entrance doors found at
the side rear of the building 'also had a burglar proof invention. On each side of the door
frame was bolted a huge L shaped lip that held a steel bar placed across the doors nightly.
This was also locked into place by a bolt and paddle lock.
first was the steel bathroom window cover and latch. This would be placed over the long
skinny bathroom window, closed, and latched nightly. The dock entrance doors found at
the side rear of the building 'also had a burglar proof invention. On each side of the door
frame was bolted a huge L shaped lip that held a steel bar placed across the doors nightly.
This was also locked into place by a bolt and paddle lock.
This store held no secret hiding places for us, but we could still be found in the
carpet department once in a while. It was a long slender building "stocked full" of stuff.
We were older now and came mostly to work and earn extra money. When Dad moved
into this store, we also moved into our new two-story house at 84 East 200 South. This
meant it took a good bike ride to get to the store instead of just walking downstairs.
carpet department once in a while. It was a long slender building "stocked full" of stuff.
We were older now and came mostly to work and earn extra money. When Dad moved
into this store, we also moved into our new two-story house at 84 East 200 South. This
meant it took a good bike ride to get to the store instead of just walking downstairs.
I remember another Dixie Interiors Store, one built with huge round display
windows. Dad designed and planned it out nightly on our kitchen table for months. Even
more partners were brought in. This store had several offices, a dock, lots of parking, and
a great front counter area with all kinds of hidden treasures.
windows. Dad designed and planned it out nightly on our kitchen table for months. Even
more partners were brought in. This store had several offices, a dock, lots of parking, and
a great front counter area with all kinds of hidden treasures.
I remember spending several days at the new store sight watching it being built.
This building, just off St. George Blvd. on about 300 East 200 North, is now just down
the street from the new Courthouse and Jail ( across the street from what once was
Loraine Cox's old homestead).
the street from the new Courthouse and Jail ( across the street from what once was
Loraine Cox's old homestead).
The bathroom in this building was hidden back in the linoleum and carpet area.
Here we had a new secret hiding place. Dad's office could have been a good hiding place,
too', but we were not allowed in there because of all the papers he had scattered all over.
too', but we were not allowed in there because of all the papers he had scattered all over.
Dad really had a unique filing system. Although we never figured it out, he knew
(as long a~. no one messed with it ) exactly where a certain bill, note, or ledger could be
found at ill times. Scary as it may seem, Dad could go right to a certain stack of papers
and find the exact paper he was looking for. We never heard the end of it if we moved a
single sheet, even if it was lost for even a single moment.
(as long a~. no one messed with it ) exactly where a certain bill, note, or ledger could be
found at ill times. Scary as it may seem, Dad could go right to a certain stack of papers
and find the exact paper he was looking for. We never heard the end of it if we moved a
single sheet, even if it was lost for even a single moment.
We really had fun with the main square counter area. On the counter sat a
typewriter that wrote in cursive. I would spend hours at it typing letters to friends and
assignments for school. As long as no one else needed it, we were allowed to use it. The
counter area was divided into shelves and drawers full with all kinds of things to play with,
borrow, or snoop into. Dad had some fun things he passed out to costumers either for
coming in or purchasing certain dollar amounts. We, too, reaped the benefits of these
items. We never had to purchase hot pads, key chains, fly swatters, folding drink cups, or
even grapefruit cutters Gust to mention a few). All ofthese items, of course, had Dixie
Interiors' name, address, and phone number on them.
typewriter that wrote in cursive. I would spend hours at it typing letters to friends and
assignments for school. As long as no one else needed it, we were allowed to use it. The
counter area was divided into shelves and drawers full with all kinds of things to play with,
borrow, or snoop into. Dad had some fun things he passed out to costumers either for
coming in or purchasing certain dollar amounts. We, too, reaped the benefits of these
items. We never had to purchase hot pads, key chains, fly swatters, folding drink cups, or
even grapefruit cutters Gust to mention a few). All ofthese items, of course, had Dixie
Interiors' name, address, and phone number on them.
I don't remember my age when the first
Brent's Interiors came into being. What I
c.
do remember is that Dad was" owner and manager
with no partners. It
started out in the
old
Dixie Market Building on about 200 So. and 250 West. (I think it's a thrift store
now.) It was across the street from the old track which they later made into a housing
now.) It was across the street from the old track which they later made into a housing
tract.
-
At first, we all helped him with cleaning, marking prices, stocking, calling,
delivering, and even billing. He taught us the proper way to lift sofas, move appliances,
and carry mattresses. He also taught us the fine art of touch-up. Dad had a large box
filled with several colors of crayons and dyes. That box mysteriously appeared every time
Dad noticed a "ding" (as he put it) on a piece offurniture or on an appliance.
delivering, and even billing. He taught us the proper way to lift sofas, move appliances,
and carry mattresses. He also taught us the fine art of touch-up. Dad had a large box
filled with several colors of crayons and dyes. That box mysteriously appeared every time
Dad noticed a "ding" (as he put it) on a piece offurniture or on an appliance.
As we got older we helped him with deliveries after the store closed at night--even
a few ofMitzie's and my male friends could be bribed to come along. During these
deliveries I learned that my Dad really knew his knots. Dad would have been a great
scout leader. He could pack anything anywhere and blanket it so it wouldn't move an
inch. It would arrive at its destination without incident.
a few ofMitzie's and my male friends could be bribed to come along. During these
deliveries I learned that my Dad really knew his knots. Dad would have been a great
scout leader. He could pack anything anywhere and blanket it so it wouldn't move an
inch. It would arrive at its destination without incident.
At one point, Dad's delivery department was like a
mini-mission training
center.
Dad would hire and train 2-3 young men and keep them
working for 1-2 years, then send
them on a mission. Some of his missionaries were: Durrell Davenport, Pat Stout, George
Brooks, Warren Brooks and Curtis Reeves.
them on a mission. Some of his missionaries were: Durrell Davenport, Pat Stout, George
Brooks, Warren Brooks and Curtis Reeves.
On the other hand, he might have done better without a few employees. I think
that it was those employees that gave him such inventive vocabulary. "You Drunken
Indian," "Dang Bums," and "Ding-Bats" are some of the common ones that come quickly
to mind.
that it was those employees that gave him such inventive vocabulary. "You Drunken
Indian," "Dang Bums," and "Ding-Bats" are some of the common ones that come quickly
to mind.
Remember all the advertising we did for the different stores? Hours of stuffing,
addressing, stamping and delivering. What fun and inventive Family Home Evenings we
had.
addressing, stamping and delivering. What fun and inventive Family Home Evenings we
had.
Brent's Interiors moved later to its present location at 55 North
700 East in the
Sunburst Shopping Mall. Next to Nordgetown Laundromat. Shortly after moving in, Dad
knocked out a wall and moved down one more unit to give him a total of two units.
Sunburst Shopping Mall. Next to Nordgetown Laundromat. Shortly after moving in, Dad
knocked out a wall and moved down one more unit to give him a total of two units.
Here
at this store, Dad installed a motion sensor with a voice and silent alarm that
connected directly to the police department. The voice said, "Come in and sit down, the
police will be here in a minute to help you tote that stuff out." (the mysterious voice was
George Brooks)
connected directly to the police department. The voice said, "Come in and sit down, the
police will be here in a minute to help you tote that stuff out." (the mysterious voice was
George Brooks)
Dad was always a true salesman. He could
sell anything to
anyone. Some say,
even refrigerators to the Eskimos. Some customers came in just to dicker prices with him. Others came in with a lower counter-offer price, just to see what Dad would do.
even refrigerators to the Eskimos. Some customers came in just to dicker prices with him. Others came in with a lower counter-offer price, just to see what Dad would do.
When I had my own children, I realized how important
price tags were to Dad.
"Don't take them off and, by no means, ever change them." If you think he got upset
about moving papers--he really got upset about price tags.
about moving papers--he really got upset about price tags.
Dad really enjoyed incentives given to salesmen for trips. He worked real hard to
make it possible for his whole family to go on these trips. I remember the trips to Hawaii
and Israel. We did all we could while we were there. Run-Run-Run. It started by
speeding to the airport--then running to catch a plane. Sometimes the trip's sleeping
arrangements weren't the best, or the food made us sick. We even lost a suitcase or two,
and had a few body searches". too. Dad knew all along the memories built on these trips
would last a life time. I now'really appreciate all the opportunities Dad gave us, and the
sacrifices he made for us to go on these trips. When returning home and telling others
about our trip, no one would ever believe we had done as much as we did in such a short
time.
make it possible for his whole family to go on these trips. I remember the trips to Hawaii
and Israel. We did all we could while we were there. Run-Run-Run. It started by
speeding to the airport--then running to catch a plane. Sometimes the trip's sleeping
arrangements weren't the best, or the food made us sick. We even lost a suitcase or two,
and had a few body searches". too. Dad knew all along the memories built on these trips
would last a life time. I now'really appreciate all the opportunities Dad gave us, and the
sacrifices he made for us to go on these trips. When returning home and telling others
about our trip, no one would ever believe we had done as much as we did in such a short
time.
We always purchased souvenirs to be brought horne, and took suitcase loads of
pictures. To this day, I'm sure it was our family trips that kept Mr. Durrant's photo shop
in business for years. Here Dad purchased film and had developed the multitude of trip
pictures--even though Dad always claimed he was missing 1 or 2 rolls offilm when the
pictures were developed and returned.
pictures. To this day, I'm sure it was our family trips that kept Mr. Durrant's photo shop
in business for years. Here Dad purchased film and had developed the multitude of trip
pictures--even though Dad always claimed he was missing 1 or 2 rolls offilm when the
pictures were developed and returned.
November is a month we'll never forget at the Talbot household. It's officially
declared nut harvesting month. Shaking, collecting, and sorting. Not one of us can 190k
at a pecan tree without thinking of these steps. Now this doesn't even compare with the
shelling, drying, and cracking. With six pecan trees this job would never be completed
before February. Dad had a fewpicky fetishes, and "proper nut cracking" was one of
them. Dad liked to see a nut cracked so the whole nut could be extracted without being
broken. When we were cracking nuts, Dad could usually be found retrieving broken
pieces from the trash. Dad always watched the trees closely around harvest time afraid
that someone would take all the nuts before we could harvest them.
declared nut harvesting month. Shaking, collecting, and sorting. Not one of us can 190k
at a pecan tree without thinking of these steps. Now this doesn't even compare with the
shelling, drying, and cracking. With six pecan trees this job would never be completed
before February. Dad had a fewpicky fetishes, and "proper nut cracking" was one of
them. Dad liked to see a nut cracked so the whole nut could be extracted without being
broken. When we were cracking nuts, Dad could usually be found retrieving broken
pieces from the trash. Dad always watched the trees closely around harvest time afraid
that someone would take all the nuts before we could harvest them.
Another fetish Dad had was "how a car should look after it was washed." Dad
thought the whitewalls must be perfectly white or it wasn't even worth having the car
cleaned. If the white walls passed, he then looked at the chrome. Chrome must be shinny
enough to see your face in it. In this car washing training we were also taught the best
way to wash windows: newspaper and elbow grease. When washing a car for Dad, it
could take hours unless you followed these simple instructions. If you didn't pass
inspection, the task was repeated until you did.
thought the whitewalls must be perfectly white or it wasn't even worth having the car
cleaned. If the white walls passed, he then looked at the chrome. Chrome must be shinny
enough to see your face in it. In this car washing training we were also taught the best
way to wash windows: newspaper and elbow grease. When washing a car for Dad, it
could take hours unless you followed these simple instructions. If you didn't pass
inspection, the task was repeated until you did.
Speaking of cars, Dad kept the first car he ever purchased way into the 1980's: a
1950 Ford. He kept it in great working condition. I remember a visor that broke on it,
and how long he looked for the part to replace it. His Ford was a light blue--robin egg
blue-T think was the color. It was parked out front under the pecan tree closest to the
driveway. He always used this car his example when talking about properly taking care of
all your purchases. I remember hearing him often say, "If you maintain things properly,
they will last forever. "
1950 Ford. He kept it in great working condition. I remember a visor that broke on it,
and how long he looked for the part to replace it. His Ford was a light blue--robin egg
blue-T think was the color. It was parked out front under the pecan tree closest to the
driveway. He always used this car his example when talking about properly taking care of
all your purchases. I remember hearing him often say, "If you maintain things properly,
they will last forever. "
I remember just how hard it was for dad to see each of his daughters get married and
start a life of their own. I'm not sure ifhe didn't want to lose the
daughters or just
couldn't bear to pay the money it took to marry them off. However he was really thrilled
at the prospect of grandchildren and now having four sons.
couldn't bear to pay the money it took to marry them off. However he was really thrilled
at the prospect of grandchildren and now having four sons.
It seemed that dad only held a couple of positions in the ward. One was when he
was Sunday school president and the other was financial clerk. He was in charge of
tithing and fast offerings. He took this very seriously, every Sunday he would not do
anything until this job was done and done right,to the penny. This was the Lord's money
and it had to be correct.
was Sunday school president and the other was financial clerk. He was in charge of
tithing and fast offerings. He took this very seriously, every Sunday he would not do
anything until this job was done and done right,to the penny. This was the Lord's money
and it had to be correct.
Dad loved tools, and the first thing us girls learned about tools, was that you
didn't
mess with Dad's tools. If you wanted to use his tools, then he would fix what you needed
fixed, or accompany the tools to make sure they got taken care of properly. Besides that
he was the only one with the keys to unlock them. He had his certain tool in strategically
located places. The garage had certain tools, the shed had others, the store ... well we
won't even get into those, and he even carried a good selection in his car. You never
know when you might need to fix something and you shouldn't need to spend time
looking for tools.
mess with Dad's tools. If you wanted to use his tools, then he would fix what you needed
fixed, or accompany the tools to make sure they got taken care of properly. Besides that
he was the only one with the keys to unlock them. He had his certain tool in strategically
located places. The garage had certain tools, the shed had others, the store ... well we
won't even get into those, and he even carried a good selection in his car. You never
know when you might need to fix something and you shouldn't need to spend time
looking for tools.
Dad left as his legacy, his children and grandchildren, each endowed with one of
his special ways of doing something. You can even hear his voice in some of the phrases
that resound through the family, ( you ding bat).'
his special ways of doing something. You can even hear his voice in some of the phrases
that resound through the family, ( you ding bat).'
It never ceased to amaze me how much Dad loved to tinker with repairs on
furniture, and making some. old broken down thing work. He would spend fifteen dollars
in time so he wouldn't have to spend two dollars on a new part. Needless to say he was
always very thrifty.
furniture, and making some. old broken down thing work. He would spend fifteen dollars
in time so he wouldn't have to spend two dollars on a new part. Needless to say he was
always very thrifty.
This poem expresses how we overlooked the wisdom that our Father
possessed
without our realizing it, and how nice it would be now to be able to tap into that
knowledge.
without our realizing it, and how nice it would be now to be able to tap into that
knowledge.
I hope we can honor our Dad's memory and think of him often. Remember the
fun times, and the love he felt for each of us and his grandchildren. Let this love bind us
together until we see him again
fun times, and the love he felt for each of us and his grandchildren. Let this love bind us
together until we see him again
Brent Talbot by Natalie Talbot Miller
It is unfortunate that I spent most of my life
working hard at not liking my Dad. Now that I am older—but not wiser—I
can see how that came about. We are too much alike. I don't say
that to brag or belittle, but to try and understand why we had such a volatile
relationship. Dad and I didn't complement each other. We were both driven and
very stubborn, and criticism even constructive is always hard to accept.
I am angry now that my Dad and I were deprived of each other’s true, love that
we had for each other because neither of us would give an inch.
However there was a few cherished moments between the battles tha
twill always remember and cling to now he is no longer with us.' One of my
earliest memories was before Beckie was born, so it would have been in St.
George. Dad and I had matching red hunting caps. Mine was silky. He called me
his little buddy. Beckie took the name when she was born-oh well.
I
remember when dad used to get haircuts from Mom in the kitchen:
He would
also spend a lot of time fixing his hair in the mirror, I used to like to watch
him spray Aqua Net on his hair and use his mirror to see behind him.
I also
remember our big fights over the bathroom. I used to like to
look in
Dad's beloved case and see his stuff. It fascinated me. I also
remember
his old spice bottles, Right Guard Deodorant and his three bristled I
toothbrush. I used to like watching him shave with his electric razor. I used
to steal his double edge razors from his case to shave with. I remember cutting
myself horribly because Dad's razors were always sharp. Dad would pay me to cut
his callouses off his feet. They were really thick and gross. I also would cut
his toenails. I remember how he would cut himself because he couldn't see what
he was doing Dad always kept himself nice. He was never dirty or greasy.
He used to keep his nails cut and cleaned with his little retractable scissors.
I noticed when we cleaned out his things he had one particular pair that he
used- all the time. They were worn out from being sharpened. 'Dad always
wore-his shirts pressed military press. I remember Mom always ,pressing them
the way he liked them. Dad always wore short sleeved button
down the
front shirts. He didn't like long sleeves or pullovers.
Dad
always wore polyester pants. I only saw him in jeans once and
That was
at our Daddy Daughter date. He bought them special for that. Dad never wore
pajamas to bed. He always wore his zip-up garments, Dad always liked to
have a clear white cloth handkerchief in his pocket. I remember pressing
those too, Dad would use those for everything. I can remember him spitting on
them to clean things with 'his glasses tools, hands. Also he would twist his
handkerchief to get way up' his nose, like a finger, I used to think
that was cool as a kid, Dad also liked to wear polished shoes. I remember
earning money to keep them looking nice.
Dad's pockets were something else, Nice as
he looked, his pockets were filled with all kinds of stuff.
Some which included his sniffer, Dristian
being the usual, toothpicks,
small measuring tapes, handkerchiefs, buttercream lifesavers (with the
outside. paper worn off so all there was the wax covering.) his scissors,
knife, and his huge massive key ring. I swear it held every key, Dad ever
used in his life. He never took any of them off. Dad knew every key and it's
use
small measuring tapes, handkerchiefs, buttercream lifesavers (with the
outside. paper worn off so all there was the wax covering.) his scissors,
knife, and his huge massive key ring. I swear it held every key, Dad ever
used in his life. He never took any of them off. Dad knew every key and it's
use
Then there was his wallet. He always wore it in his back pocket. I
drove Mom crazy because it was always huge. It held Dad's notorious get done lists of notes to himself.
drove Mom crazy because it was always huge. It held Dad's notorious get done lists of notes to himself.
I remember on our trips how worried we
always were about Dad
getting his pocket picked. But he still wouldn't move his wallet to the front.
getting his pocket picked. But he still wouldn't move his wallet to the front.
Dad also had this pocket protector he
always wore in his shirt, It
used to have a pen light pocket flashlight; a small screwdriver, a pencil and
eraser that was always sharpened. He made sure if you borrowed any of it
used to have a pen light pocket flashlight; a small screwdriver, a pencil and
eraser that was always sharpened. He made sure if you borrowed any of it
that he got it right back:,
Dad was funny about lending things he hated
to let us borrow stuff.
Yet most of the time, he could be convinced
into it. He had a soft heart.
Dad loved his stuff and he had lots of
stuff. He loved his tools. It drove him
crazy when the guys at work lost or wrecked
his tools. The guys at work
drove him crazy anyway. I remember some phrases he used to describe
them: ding bats. pot Iuckers, dam bums, drunken injuns. Someone was
always dinging this, screwing that up, eating french fries, not locking the
trucks; loosing the blankets. (Remember when the guys shut the garage
door on Tammie's red car and creased the top,or when they hit.the speed
bump full speed and dropped the engine out of the blue truck? ) These things
made Dad mad. Dad's store was a world of his own . My earliest memories
were at Leigh's Furniture in the basement under the beds and the carpet
rolls, The old time ,pop machine and the stacks of empty glass bottles in the
wooden crates.' Then there was the big Dixie Interiors, I remember how
.proud Dad was of that store. But I also remember how long it took to clean
it; the bathrooms, the huge windows the linoleum by the doors. I
remember punching our time cards in the time clock and being there for
hours, I remember the smell of those fake eucalyptus trees, sometimes it
was nauseating.
drove him crazy anyway. I remember some phrases he used to describe
them: ding bats. pot Iuckers, dam bums, drunken injuns. Someone was
always dinging this, screwing that up, eating french fries, not locking the
trucks; loosing the blankets. (Remember when the guys shut the garage
door on Tammie's red car and creased the top,or when they hit.the speed
bump full speed and dropped the engine out of the blue truck? ) These things
made Dad mad. Dad's store was a world of his own . My earliest memories
were at Leigh's Furniture in the basement under the beds and the carpet
rolls, The old time ,pop machine and the stacks of empty glass bottles in the
wooden crates.' Then there was the big Dixie Interiors, I remember how
.proud Dad was of that store. But I also remember how long it took to clean
it; the bathrooms, the huge windows the linoleum by the doors. I
remember punching our time cards in the time clock and being there for
hours, I remember the smell of those fake eucalyptus trees, sometimes it
was nauseating.
I remember how beautiful Dad had all the
furniture arranged. The Early American with its cool lamps. And the rolls of
fridges, one of which
always had cold pop and candy bars inside with Dad's bananas on
always had cold pop and candy bars inside with Dad's bananas on
top,and his milk inside. Dad used to love
the root beer. We always got to have some of that candy. I also remember cleaning the other stores,
The red shag carpet in the now Brent's Interiors and the stereo dept divider out or the gross paneling.
Also I remember the dividers out of white peg board and the
rolls of lazy boys and the couches and the matching pillows. And the big couch
pictures Dad stocked. I used to like to look at them and dream about them. I
remember the old France pictures we all had in our rooms as kids and our
bedroom sets. I remember throwing a fit cause I wanted a new bedroom set after
Tammie and Mitzie got one. Dad got me this pretty antique set and I
remember the Chandelier he got because I didn't like the one he picked out.
I remember how we would get furniture at the house and then one day It
would be gone because he would sell it. Then he would bring something
else.
remember the Chandelier he got because I didn't like the one he picked out.
I remember how we would get furniture at the house and then one day It
would be gone because he would sell it. Then he would bring something
else.
I remember how he used to bring half the store of Parkers home
for
Mom to try on as a kid, It was a store next to Leigh Furniture. Dad used to
get Mom some real pretty stuff there ..
Mom to try on as a kid, It was a store next to Leigh Furniture. Dad used to
get Mom some real pretty stuff there ..
I remember Dad's gallons of gas in the bathrooms for the fork lifts. I
remember taking him a dinner plate there. Also the piles of paper Dad
remember taking him a dinner plate there. Also the piles of paper Dad
loved notes. .
Dad also liked
to take copies of things. He wrote epistles on his ledger.
He always signed things- Thanks Brent. His hand writing was beautifu1.
II loved how he would comment on everything.
I also remember Dad's contests at the store. The wishing well,
the
treasure box. He used to go to great lengths for business. I
remember some
of the nuts who worked for him: Tex, The Laub's, Allen, The Schumachers,
our boyfriends. I think I hold the record for boyfriends that worked at the
store.
of the nuts who worked for him: Tex, The Laub's, Allen, The Schumachers,
our boyfriends. I think I hold the record for boyfriends that worked at the
store.
I was always grateful for his kindness for paying me to clean,
file
those pink, yellows and whites in those green folders.
those pink, yellows and whites in those green folders.
Those lousy vacuums he had. The rags Mom would bring and have to
take home to
wash. .
Remember when you'd go to see him at night and he would be
asleep
in front of the T.V. with the news on really loud. Remember those stupid
signs around the store that read WAS and NOW.
in front of the T.V. with the news on really loud. Remember those stupid
signs around the store that read WAS and NOW.
Dad would always say, ."What can we tempt you with today?" When
people came in and when they left he would always give them some trinket.
He would open a chest of drawers of stuff. It was Bernie J. Salvatio that sold
it to him. It was stuff like: a fly swatter, hot pads, magnets, key chains. He
people came in and when they left he would always give them some trinket.
He would open a chest of drawers of stuff. It was Bernie J. Salvatio that sold
it to him. It was stuff like: a fly swatter, hot pads, magnets, key chains. He
would always
give them a calendar and say "Preciate your bissnessl" .
, In fact I find myself looking at businesses and end up feeling
most at
home in those that are a little run down and messy. Where the employees
and owner are right there and know what it means to give customers
home in those that are a little run down and messy. Where the employees
and owner are right there and know what it means to give customers
service. They
make me feel at home. .
It was at Dad's store I learned to work and how to clean. I can make
the cars look great- especially clean those tires. The black- black and the
white walls white. Dad used to compliment me on how well I could keep a house. He has been the only man I know that has appreciated that rare
talent- nah, hahl He used to tell me it whenever he came over. I loved to
clean his cars and trucks cause I knew he appreciated it.
the cars look great- especially clean those tires. The black- black and the
white walls white. Dad used to compliment me on how well I could keep a house. He has been the only man I know that has appreciated that rare
talent- nah, hahl He used to tell me it whenever he came over. I loved to
clean his cars and trucks cause I knew he appreciated it.
Speaking of cars, I remember the Ford and when the sun visor got
busted up and he tried for the longest time to fix it. Then there was the blue
station wagon and the countless store vans; the green one. the red truck, the
white vans. The country squire that dad had all his stuff in. I remember the
big towing chain. it rescued me more times than I can count.
busted up and he tried for the longest time to fix it. Then there was the blue
station wagon and the countless store vans; the green one. the red truck, the
white vans. The country squire that dad had all his stuff in. I remember the
big towing chain. it rescued me more times than I can count.
Dad and I were a great team towing. I never snapped off his
bumper,
because I always kept the chain tight. There was some good times with him
and those cars.
because I always kept the chain tight. There was some good times with him
and those cars.
I remember racing to S.L. to not miss our flights. I remember our trip
to the Redwoods and Mom making sandwiches on the second seat. I
to the Redwoods and Mom making sandwiches on the second seat. I
. remember Dad falling asleep and us putting ice down his
back--feeding him
nonstop. He would drive for hours. I remember trying to find a radio
station for him. I remember watching him drive with his eyes closed. I
always felt that we would get where we were going with Dad driving. He
always asked directions and used a map. I don't ever remember getting lost.
He always planned out his travel long before the trip. He planned all of my
trips.
nonstop. He would drive for hours. I remember trying to find a radio
station for him. I remember watching him drive with his eyes closed. I
always felt that we would get where we were going with Dad driving. He
always asked directions and used a map. I don't ever remember getting lost.
He always planned out his travel long before the trip. He planned all of my
trips.
One time I remember. Dad and I got milk shakes at Frostop and
stopped to quick at a light and dumped them all. I also remember that Dad
knew all the streets in town that had stop signs on and he was always trying
to find the fastest way somewhere.
stopped to quick at a light and dumped them all. I also remember that Dad
knew all the streets in town that had stop signs on and he was always trying
to find the fastest way somewhere.
I remember going on trips to Salt Lake with him and getting
furniture.
I remember how cold ad yucky it would be and he would be outside
tying
down stuff. He was a master of knots. He made stuff stay right where it
belonged. He would also pack stuff tight. I remember his voice in my mind
on how to pack my moving vans when I have moved and how proud I was
of myself and thinking how proud Dad would be of my packing job. I also
liked to tell him about my success.
down stuff. He was a master of knots. He made stuff stay right where it
belonged. He would also pack stuff tight. I remember his voice in my mind
on how to pack my moving vans when I have moved and how proud I was
of myself and thinking how proud Dad would be of my packing job. I also
liked to tell him about my success.
Dad was a master fix it man.
He could fix anything. Sometimes the
thing shouldn't have been fixed. (But don't tell Dad) He would never throw
anything away without a fight to revive it first. He would get out the
watered down EImers’ glue or the furniture repair crayons, duct tape, super
glue. He could work miracles. I remember knocking down one of his men
that was on the wall in the kitchen. I remember watching him bring it back
to life. I also remember the "Thinker Monkey" statue it got the heck beat
out of it. Dad wanted you to bring him things to fix.
thing shouldn't have been fixed. (But don't tell Dad) He would never throw
anything away without a fight to revive it first. He would get out the
watered down EImers’ glue or the furniture repair crayons, duct tape, super
glue. He could work miracles. I remember knocking down one of his men
that was on the wall in the kitchen. I remember watching him bring it back
to life. I also remember the "Thinker Monkey" statue it got the heck beat
out of it. Dad wanted you to bring him things to fix.
I am afraid I have turned into him. I will spend hours repairing
things. Mickey thinks I can fix anything.
things. Mickey thinks I can fix anything.
Dad
taking anytime off through he would take naps on the couch and in the lazy boy.
I don't remember him being sick enough to stay home until he had those horrible
headaches. I thought he would die then. Dad hated hospitals.
He would
have rather been anywhere than the hospital.
He used
to call his arthritis Uncle Ortho, I wonder what his life would
have been
without the disease. So many things changed for him because of it.
Dad
didn't get to do a whole lot of things with us because he always
worked to
hard. When he did go on vacation he did it with a bang: Dad always did
everything there was to do. On the trips he took us on he always went a hundred
miles an hour, I remember he would always get pamphlets in the hotel lobbies
and take us to all kinds of things. When you went with Dad you really saw
everything there was to see. He loved to take pictures of it all. He had the
Kodak 126 instamatic that he would take gobs of slide film with. He used to
take pictures of everything. If he couldn't take pictures
then he
would buy them He loved to assemble all of them together for a show. Also he
was a real souvenir freak. He would take everything that wasn't tied down. His
favorite was soap, match books. and postcards. He made sure we always had good
souvenirs of the places we went. I have some neat stuff from all over the world
because of my Dad. He was big on clothes from other countries. shirts and
dresses. He would spare no expense
to get us
something nice. I can remember one particular trip to Europe. We did it all by
rail. We had 2 suitcases each for souvenirs..
Dad loved
to go on the trips. But getting there nearly drove us all
crazy. He
would come home after we should have already left. We would be throwing his
stuff in a suitcase. Mom would be having a meltdown and Dad would be in the
bathroom messing with his hair. I can remember Mom saying she was not going but
somehow we would make it. and we would have a good time despite all the
problems.
Dad would
always but do us on all of our trips. They rejuvenated him. I wish that he
could have made a few more places before he left. Also Dad really liked telling
people about his trips. He would take the thousands of rolls of film to Mr.
Durrant at Dixie Studio. He and Dad where so much alike. Mr. Durrant would make
.copies and such for Dad. I swear Dad must have paid him somebucks through the
years.
,
Also Dad
liked to watch T.V. specials and read books about the place she had been.Mom
and he have this great shelf full of cool stuff from all over the
world. I
guess Dad knew those memories would last forever long after natural things are
gone. I'm glad that even though he sacrificed a lot to take us on those trip's
that he did it, because that's where I got to see the real Brent, not the Brent
from the store.
He loved to
putter around a lot. Even when it was boiling outside in
the garage, he would be out there working on something on his project fix it
list.
the garage, he would be out there working on something on his project fix it
list.
I loved his lists. I am a list freak. I live for my lists .. There is
something that makes me happy about crossing off something on my list.
something that makes me happy about crossing off something on my list.
Dad's motto was not to waste anything. As a child he grew up
poor.
So dad was careful about using up stuff and
never throwing anything away.
I remember how he used to say what good kids we were when we cleaned
our plates. Dad hated us to leave anything on our plates even if we were full.
He would dig food out of the garbage and eat it. When Mom cleaned the
fridge, Mom would find the bad stuff in the chest freezer outside. I suppose
that he ate this stuff when he was in the garage. Also I can remember once
helping Mom throw out 'some gummy old ice cream. And then finding Dad
I remember how he used to say what good kids we were when we cleaned
our plates. Dad hated us to leave anything on our plates even if we were full.
He would dig food out of the garbage and eat it. When Mom cleaned the
fridge, Mom would find the bad stuff in the chest freezer outside. I suppose
that he ate this stuff when he was in the garage. Also I can remember once
helping Mom throw out 'some gummy old ice cream. And then finding Dad
outside eating it out of the trash. .
Dad would eat anything. I made up a rhyme when I was a
kid. 1
"Mom's left overs hot, mom's left overs cold, Mom's left overs in the pot
nine
days old. Some eat them hot, Dad likes them cold, He'll even eat them in the
days old. Some eat them hot, Dad likes them cold, He'll even eat them in the
pot nine days old" "
". .
Mom used to leave food
she cooked on the back of the stove, so when
I Dad came home he would warm and eat them. Most of the time Dad would
I Dad came home he would warm and eat them. Most of the time Dad would
. .
eat them straight from the pot cold. ,
Dad liked to eat weird things. He put ketchup on
everything; eggs
potatoes. He liked hard old cake with milk on it. He loved bananas. He liked
fudge sicle and cream sicles.He liked twinkies, dingdongs. He loved to eat.
At Christmas he would make a run to Cedar to' get that great toffee that they
made up there.
potatoes. He liked hard old cake with milk on it. He loved bananas. He liked
fudge sicle and cream sicles.He liked twinkies, dingdongs. He loved to eat.
At Christmas he would make a run to Cedar to' get that great toffee that they
made up there.
Of all the things Dad liked to eat it would be tomatoes especially
homegrown. He was in seventh heaven with a plate of tomatoes and salt and
pepper and also the apples from Grandpa Talbot's farm. Those tiny wrinkled
up waxy things. When we would get them as kids from Grandpas or later
when Uncle Bob brought them down. Dad ate them like candy.
homegrown. He was in seventh heaven with a plate of tomatoes and salt and
pepper and also the apples from Grandpa Talbot's farm. Those tiny wrinkled
up waxy things. When we would get them as kids from Grandpas or later
when Uncle Bob brought them down. Dad ate them like candy.
Dad also loved his pecan trees. I remember how during the summer.
he would prop the Pecan Trees' up to keep the limbs from breaking. I also
remember the old ladies who came to steal them .: I hated the annual nut
harvest party. The smashing of the limbs with bamboo poles and the raking
and the sorting and the drying and hulling and the cracking for Christmas. I
swear our parents lived for those nuts sometimes. Now I'll conveniently be
busy and seldom participate by choice- in the ritual.
he would prop the Pecan Trees' up to keep the limbs from breaking. I also
remember the old ladies who came to steal them .: I hated the annual nut
harvest party. The smashing of the limbs with bamboo poles and the raking
and the sorting and the drying and hulling and the cracking for Christmas. I
swear our parents lived for those nuts sometimes. Now I'll conveniently be
busy and seldom participate by choice- in the ritual.
I was obsessive about quite a few things.
Obsessive is my new
word. Compliments of my therapists. I will name just a few. Dogs and cats
pets in general. I understood dad had horses as a young boy and someone'
left the gates open and let the horses out onto a pasture where there was n't
and water and then the gate closed. As a result Dads horse died of thirst. It
word. Compliments of my therapists. I will name just a few. Dogs and cats
pets in general. I understood dad had horses as a young boy and someone'
left the gates open and let the horses out onto a pasture where there was n't
and water and then the gate closed. As a result Dads horse died of thirst. It
was a very painful thing. As a' result he tried to shield
us of that pain. He
didn't want us to have pets. He tolerated our cats. Lots of cats came and .
went. He buried them for lis, and hoped that we wouldn't want more. But
one day, I being the child that pushed the envelope wanted a dog. I
remember him enlightening me on all of the piles of dog --~. He even
offered to buy me a horse if I wouldn't get a dog. I asked him instead for an
elephant. He freaked, when I brought the dog home. He really hated dogs,
mainly because he loved his lawn. Dad had a real attachment to the green
stuff and dogs and lawn don't mix. He hated all dogs. because" most of them
used his precious lawn-as a toilet. He had a special BB gun loaded at all
times just for the chance he might catch one in the act. He also had his
Polaroid camera loaded to take pictures of the evidence. He hated getting
__ on his shoes because it was so' hard for him to bend over and get it off..
didn't want us to have pets. He tolerated our cats. Lots of cats came and .
went. He buried them for lis, and hoped that we wouldn't want more. But
one day, I being the child that pushed the envelope wanted a dog. I
remember him enlightening me on all of the piles of dog --~. He even
offered to buy me a horse if I wouldn't get a dog. I asked him instead for an
elephant. He freaked, when I brought the dog home. He really hated dogs,
mainly because he loved his lawn. Dad had a real attachment to the green
stuff and dogs and lawn don't mix. He hated all dogs. because" most of them
used his precious lawn-as a toilet. He had a special BB gun loaded at all
times just for the chance he might catch one in the act. He also had his
Polaroid camera loaded to take pictures of the evidence. He hated getting
__ on his shoes because it was so' hard for him to bend over and get it off..
, He would spend hours with
his pocket screw driver trying to pick the stuff
out.
out.
Dad's lawn was beautiful. He made sure it was
completely watered.
As a kid I remember him
dragging those wand sprinklers around the yard.
The water was running all night. It was a hard job.
The water was running all night. It was a hard job.
. After they got
sprinklers, Dad was always adjusting and fixing the
broken heads. He looked so uncomfortable on that tiny stool all bent over.
broken heads. He looked so uncomfortable on that tiny stool all bent over.
I But
he was persistent and had them fixed all the time. '
Dad
also hated motorcycles: I don't really know Why he hated them so
bad, but he did. I remember when I brought Richard home. That is what he
drove. Dad must have written me off, when he saw me get on it and ride off.
bad, but he did. I remember when I brought Richard home. That is what he
drove. Dad must have written me off, when he saw me get on it and ride off.
I
used to call Dad Archie Bunker. I am afraid he was not
tolerant of
other races. He also had some pretty politically incorrect terms for them.
Mom said it was because of his experience in the war, and from doing
business with them. Unfortunately he never singled them out as individuals.
He clumped them together as a group. Dad really lost it when I brought an
Indian boy home. He, called him a Mexican, but he went off the deep end
with Freddie. Freddie was black. One night when I wasn't home right at
12:00, he was out on main in the "Country Squire" looking for me. When I
got home he said, "You better watch it- I ain't gonna be bouncing no black,
other races. He also had some pretty politically incorrect terms for them.
Mom said it was because of his experience in the war, and from doing
business with them. Unfortunately he never singled them out as individuals.
He clumped them together as a group. Dad really lost it when I brought an
Indian boy home. He, called him a Mexican, but he went off the deep end
with Freddie. Freddie was black. One night when I wasn't home right at
12:00, he was out on main in the "Country Squire" looking for me. When I
got home he said, "You better watch it- I ain't gonna be bouncing no black,
baby on my knee. "A-huhl- what a
hoot. . . "
Dad
was obsessive about his pills. I wonder if anyone ever
really
knew in his life time how much aspirin he took. I'm sure it never did much
good. For all the pain, he was in it probably didn't even take off the edge.
knew in his life time how much aspirin he took. I'm sure it never did much
good. For all the pain, he was in it probably didn't even take off the edge.
He had to be a little
neurotic about his pills. But he frightened .me
with his
theory, if one is good then 10 should be better. It's a wonder he didn't have
trouble earlier. But Dad was like a timex. "takes a licken and keeps on
ticken". He defied most of his aliments that would have stopped others in
their tracks. I remember how when Dad got the flu he would about puke his
guts out. You could hear he was sick about a mile away. I never remember
theory, if one is good then 10 should be better. It's a wonder he didn't have
trouble earlier. But Dad was like a timex. "takes a licken and keeps on
ticken". He defied most of his aliments that would have stopped others in
their tracks. I remember how when Dad got the flu he would about puke his
guts out. You could hear he was sick about a mile away. I never remember
Dad also liked to take
pictures of lots of things. Remember the flying
saucer cloud. He made it to the Channel S news.
saucer cloud. He made it to the Channel S news.
- . .
Dad's favorite photo's were of the grandkids.
It seems like he was
always snapping pictures. Not so much the last
3 or 4 years. (because he
was so sick most of the time. But before that he was always picture taking.
was so sick most of the time. But before that he was always picture taking.
Dad's favorite time of the year was Christmas. When I was growing
up he used to go nuts with all the decorations. I used to love to see all the
. blue lights under my purple curtains in my room at night. He used to get
one tree for outside and one for inside.
up he used to go nuts with all the decorations. I used to love to see all the
. blue lights under my purple curtains in my room at night. He used to get
one tree for outside and one for inside.
He loved a perfect tree. He would put it in
a big bucket and put rocks
around it and then fool with it until it was perfect.
around it and then fool with it until it was perfect.
He had the neatest way of draping Dacron
batting on the limbs over
the lights and spraying it with snow. It was beautiful. I've never seen
anyone else who did it the way that he did. Dad also put stuff all over the
.house, I remember Santa and the reindeer and how he put a red nose on a
reindeer for Rudolph for me.
the lights and spraying it with snow. It was beautiful. I've never seen
anyone else who did it the way that he did. Dad also put stuff all over the
.house, I remember Santa and the reindeer and how he put a red nose on a
reindeer for Rudolph for me.
He made the manager scene. First he pasted an
glued then cut it out
with a jigsaw. .
One year he made a huge
wreath for Aunt Joan's wedding. After the
wedding we put it outside. That year we even had music outside. My Dad
wedding we put it outside. That year we even had music outside. My Dad
I could do anything like that.
. Dad also rigged up a stereo system inside our
house. It was inside of
the end tables. The tape deck was in a drawer in the kitchen. Our house had
music playing at night when we went to sleep. Dad made sure that we were
the end tables. The tape deck was in a drawer in the kitchen. Our house had
music playing at night when we went to sleep. Dad made sure that we were
. always taken care of. '
-We were sick kids, and he had to spend a lot
of money on doctors,
tonsillectomy, allergy doctors, etc. He even learned how to give us shots. I
remember Dad paying us as kids if we would not cry when he gave me my
tonsillectomy, allergy doctors, etc. He even learned how to give us shots. I
remember Dad paying us as kids if we would not cry when he gave me my
allergy shot. '
Dad was always there' to help you. I could
always call him to give my
kids blessings. When Rhea almost died because of jaundice, he gave her a
blessing. He gave me lots of blessings, one in particular that stands out in
my mind was when Richard had left and I couldn't handle the pain. I
couldn't eat or sleep or even function. I asked Dad for a blessing. When he
gave me that blessing I can remember him asking the Lord to take away my
pain and give it to him. He couldn't stand to see me suffer and he was
willing to take some of the pain. I can't imagine that, he body racked with
pain---and he was asking the Lord for my pain.
kids blessings. When Rhea almost died because of jaundice, he gave her a
blessing. He gave me lots of blessings, one in particular that stands out in
my mind was when Richard had left and I couldn't handle the pain. I
couldn't eat or sleep or even function. I asked Dad for a blessing. When he
gave me that blessing I can remember him asking the Lord to take away my
pain and give it to him. He couldn't stand to see me suffer and he was
willing to take some of the pain. I can't imagine that, he body racked with
pain---and he was asking the Lord for my pain.
You could always talk to
Dad. I admit sometimes it was impossible to
have a short conversation with him. I can remember avoiding to start to'
talk to him or' asking to talk to Mom cause I was in a hurry. Why is it that
have a short conversation with him. I can remember avoiding to start to'
talk to him or' asking to talk to Mom cause I was in a hurry. Why is it that
- you never appreciate
things like just talking to people. What I would give now to call and have a
big long talk with him and tell him how much I love
him and what a great guy he was .
him and what a great guy he was .
. -- Dad always listened to
me. I wined a lot. After I was through
lamenting what a bad life I had. he would say, " Honey, just look up or down
this street and there is someone who is suffering just as much or more than
you,
lamenting what a bad life I had. he would say, " Honey, just look up or down
this street and there is someone who is suffering just as much or more than
you,
Dad never said, "I
told you so. He would just help you figure out how
you could get get out of the fix you were in.
you could get get out of the fix you were in.
He liked to have-the kids Sing and play
the piano for him. A week
before he died my girls did just that. We put on a talent show. Dad just sat
there and cried. After they were through Dad gave them a hug and a kiss
and told them how much he loved them. He always was giving the kids
money. As we left to go home on the last Sunday, he gave the kids a dollar
bill each.
before he died my girls did just that. We put on a talent show. Dad just sat
there and cried. After they were through Dad gave them a hug and a kiss
and told them how much he loved them. He always was giving the kids
money. As we left to go home on the last Sunday, he gave the kids a dollar
bill each.
He 'would sit in his chair
and play games and watch train videos with
Mickey. He liked to play fish with the girls. The kids would laugh as he
would get out a stack of batteries and test them to find one with some juice
to fix one of the kids toys.
Mickey. He liked to play fish with the girls. The kids would laugh as he
would get out a stack of batteries and test them to find one with some juice
to fix one of the kids toys.
He could snore louder than anyone. I know he
was mysterious in
I some ways .. I wish I would have understood why he did
things the way he
did. Maybe we could have been more tolerant of each other.
did. Maybe we could have been more tolerant of each other.
Brent Talbot was a good
man. My only hope is that when I pass on,
people will have wonderful things to say about me. He touched lots of
people. He was honest to his determent. Dad always gave people a second
chance to prove themselves. Most didn't deserve it. He was a good man and
I am proud that he was my father.
people will have wonderful things to say about me. He touched lots of
people. He was honest to his determent. Dad always gave people a second
chance to prove themselves. Most didn't deserve it. He was a good man and
I am proud that he was my father.
After leaving home and having children, I enjoyed watching
my kids with their grandpa. He was such a loving caring grandpa. He thought
Kayden could do no wrong. They enjoyed reading books together. Kayden loved
Grandpa's pocket flashlight, making things red with the light, and playing
doctor with it.
Grandpa would say “Those
are such cute kids' He thought McKenzie was pretty sweet too.
Every time he saw her he told me he was sure she grew an
inch or two. I sure wish he could have been able to read to her and etc. like
he did with
Kayden.
.
I learned a lot about how io work from Dad. I know that was
important to him because that was one of his worst complaints about „kids these
days", -not knowing how to work. I hope I can teach my kids to be
responsible and hardworking like he taught me to be.
Dad will be missed greatly. I love him and selfishly wish he
was still but know he is in a much kinder, gentler place. He is free from all
troubles-that he had to deal with.
by Jim Talbot
Born March 1, 1930 at home in Paragonah, Utah, The second child of James
Orson and Annie Gale Talbot
Orson and Annie Gale Talbot
- Oldest of 6 boys in the family - Had 5 younger brothers: Gordon, Bob,
Myself (Jim), Ardell, and Neil. He had one older sister, Beth, and two
Myself (Jim), Ardell, and Neil. He had one older sister, Beth, and two
"
younger sisters, Anna and Judy.
- Attended grade school through 8 th grade in Paragonah,
and 4 years of
high school in Parowan where he graduated from High school in 1948.
high school in Parowan where he graduated from High school in 1948.
As a young man in high
school years, to me, he was big and strong -
He worked with my father on the farm. Iwas always impressed with what
he could do - handy - build things - or fix things he worked hard. He could
pitch alot of hay in a day. I was always proud of him. As I was his younger
brother, he was my hero - my role model- I thought he was superman. I
bragged to my friends "My brother can do this or that" Perhaps "My brother
can whip your brother" I tried to be like him and model my life after him.
He worked with my father on the farm. Iwas always impressed with what
he could do - handy - build things - or fix things he worked hard. He could
pitch alot of hay in a day. I was always proud of him. As I was his younger
brother, he was my hero - my role model- I thought he was superman. I
bragged to my friends "My brother can do this or that" Perhaps "My brother
can whip your brother" I tried to be like him and model my life after him.
As a gullible younger brother, he taught me many things. For example
where steel wool comes from - sheep grazing on iron mountain. I do not want
to imply all he told me was not true, but that I did learn from him and we
had fun at the same time. We had a good relationship as brothers and he did
not beat up on me very often except when I got in his car.
where steel wool comes from - sheep grazing on iron mountain. I do not want
to imply all he told me was not true, but that I did learn from him and we
had fun at the same time. We had a good relationship as brothers and he did
not beat up on me very often except when I got in his car.
As a senior in High School, he was president of the High School Chapter
of the Future Farmers of America. He earned a scholarship for college from
the Union Pacific Railroad for his work in FFA. Because he did this, I knew
about it-and set a goal to obtain the same scholarship, which I did 8 years
later.
of the Future Farmers of America. He earned a scholarship for college from
the Union Pacific Railroad for his work in FFA. Because he did this, I knew
about it-and set a goal to obtain the same scholarship, which I did 8 years
later.
As the
oldest boy in the family, he set the standard for the rest of us.
He honored our parents - He never was
rebellious. He honored the
priesthood. He observed the Word of Wisdom. He was an example we all
wanted to follow. I'm not sure that I could have resisted the temptations
that came to me as a young man, if I had not had him as a role model to
follow.
priesthood. He observed the Word of Wisdom. He was an example we all
wanted to follow. I'm not sure that I could have resisted the temptations
that came to me as a young man, if I had not had him as a role model to
follow.
He used his scholarship to go one year to collage at what was then BAC
(Branch Agricultural College) in Cedar City. Because of his ability as a
handyman, he got a job working for Reid Cox who was the building and
maintenance supervisor at BAC. He did such a good job that when I came
along later, all I had to do was tell them I was his brother and they gave me
the same job.
(Branch Agricultural College) in Cedar City. Because of his ability as a
handyman, he got a job working for Reid Cox who was the building and
maintenance supervisor at BAC. He did such a good job that when I came
along later, all I had to do was tell them I was his brother and they gave me
the same job.
I do not know all the reasons why he did not continue on in
school,
but I am sure a part of it was the financial situation of a large family trying
to live on a farm income in the early 1950's. He got the opportunity to work
for Utah Construction Company at the iron mines west of Cedar City as a
carpenter and handyman. He worked there for a year or two when he got
his draft call to serve in the military. We were all concerned because the
but I am sure a part of it was the financial situation of a large family trying
to live on a farm income in the early 1950's. He got the opportunity to work
for Utah Construction Company at the iron mines west of Cedar City as a
carpenter and handyman. He worked there for a year or two when he got
his draft call to serve in the military. We were all concerned because the
Korean Conflict was just getting underway. He did much of his early training
at FT Belvoir in Virginia as part of an Engineering Battalion. I remember
him telling about building pontoon bridges across the Potomac River.
at FT Belvoir in Virginia as part of an Engineering Battalion. I remember
him telling about building pontoon bridges across the Potomac River.
To the relief of all of us, his orders were to Germany rather than
Korea. It was while he was on leave from the army that he started dating
Sherlie Smith from Parowan. She had been a friend of my sister, Anna from
before he left in the army. He found her picture in Anna's year book ask
Korea. It was while he was on leave from the army that he started dating
Sherlie Smith from Parowan. She had been a friend of my sister, Anna from
before he left in the army. He found her picture in Anna's year book ask
" .. .
Anna if she thought Sherlie would go out with him. He called her for a
date
and it was started. I remember that he could not stay away from Parowan
after that. We did not see much of him while he was on leave. He was really
bitten by this tall beautiful girl.
after that. We did not see much of him while he was on leave. He was really
bitten by this tall beautiful girl.
For the year and a half that he was in Germany, he and
Sherlie
corresponded with each other - Sort of a courtship by mail. One month after
he got home, on 22 August. 1953. They were married in the St. George
corresponded with each other - Sort of a courtship by mail. One month after
he got home, on 22 August. 1953. They were married in the St. George
r
Temple.
Brent and Sherlie made their home in Parowan. He worked for
Sherlie’s father as a mechanic for a time and as a night watchman at the
iron mines. As a car salesman for a time and as a cabinet maker before
starting full time working for Leigh Furniture Company in Cedar City where
he worked for over 10 years.
Sherlie’s father as a mechanic for a time and as a night watchman at the
iron mines. As a car salesman for a time and as a cabinet maker before
starting full time working for Leigh Furniture Company in Cedar City where
he worked for over 10 years.
During this time I graduated from high school in 1956. I was looking
to go to college and was going to go interview several departments at college
to determine what my major should be. Brent encouraged me to go to
college and left it to me to decide what to take, but he did suggest I talk, to
the Engineering Department. I did and felt challenged to major in Civil
Engineering which has been a very rewarding career for me. Brent helped
me very much during my first two years at school. I know that he wanted
me to have the opportunity to finish college which he did not have. He
helped me get a job at college. Brent had money that he could pay to
someone to help him unload furniture. He would come to the college dorms
to go to college and was going to go interview several departments at college
to determine what my major should be. Brent encouraged me to go to
college and left it to me to decide what to take, but he did suggest I talk, to
the Engineering Department. I did and felt challenged to major in Civil
Engineering which has been a very rewarding career for me. Brent helped
me very much during my first two years at school. I know that he wanted
me to have the opportunity to finish college which he did not have. He
helped me get a job at college. Brent had money that he could pay to
someone to help him unload furniture. He would come to the college dorms
. and pick me up and take me to Milford, Minnersville and Beaver. I would
take my books along and do my homework and he would pay me the money
instead of someone else. I worked at the college, but when I did not have
work there. He gave me work at his home in Parowan- building a fence –
take my books along and do my homework and he would pay me the money
instead of someone else. I worked at the college, but when I did not have
work there. He gave me work at his home in Parowan- building a fence –
pulling
weeds and painting. He wanted me to go to college. He had a great
heart. He helped out many of the family over the years selling us furniture
for his cost and helping our parents with their needs.
heart. He helped out many of the family over the years selling us furniture
for his cost and helping our parents with their needs.
In 1965 Brent and Sherlie moved to St. George to open a store for
Leigh Furniture. Later he was a partner in opening a new furniture
business, Dixie Interiors. Then in 1974, he started his own business of
Brent's Interiors, which he ran for 17 years. I believe his goal was to
provide his customers with honest service. He often spoke to me of the
Leigh Furniture. Later he was a partner in opening a new furniture
business, Dixie Interiors. Then in 1974, he started his own business of
Brent's Interiors, which he ran for 17 years. I believe his goal was to
provide his customers with honest service. He often spoke to me of the
. Ward members who helped him by patronizing his business
during lean
times.
times.
Brent and Sherlie went on to have 4 fine daughters; Mitzie, Tammie,
Natalie, and Beckie. He was a good and loving father who worked hard to
provide for his family and make them happy. He worked long hours. I used
to call him on the phone. He and I had a special relationship we used to talk
to each other and council each other alot. If I ever wanted to get a hold of
Brent I would call him at the store at 10:00 p.m. That was where he was. He
worked late and hard. Through his business he would work extra hard to
win trips for his family from furniture manufacturers. He wanted his family
to see some of the world he had seen. He took them to Egypt, Israel, Europe,
Hawaii and Washington DC.
Natalie, and Beckie. He was a good and loving father who worked hard to
provide for his family and make them happy. He worked long hours. I used
to call him on the phone. He and I had a special relationship we used to talk
to each other and council each other alot. If I ever wanted to get a hold of
Brent I would call him at the store at 10:00 p.m. That was where he was. He
worked late and hard. Through his business he would work extra hard to
win trips for his family from furniture manufacturers. He wanted his family
to see some of the world he had seen. He took them to Egypt, Israel, Europe,
Hawaii and Washington DC.
As his family grew and grandchildren came, He took the time
to have
special time with each grandchild. They allloved him very much because
special time with each grandchild. They allloved him very much because
. he loved them and they knew it. I observed all his
grand children gathered
around his casket last night. They already miss their grandfather very much
because he spent so much time with them. He supported them in sporting
around his casket last night. They already miss their grandfather very much
because he spent so much time with them. He supported them in sporting
. "events and music
events - anything they were
involved in, he
was there to
see
them and support them. He read stories to the little ones and baby sit
them just to be with them and love them. I heard a story from one of the
Grandchildren, They asked where grandpa was and why didn't he wake up.
They were told that Grandpa had gone to be with Heavenly Father. The
grandchild then said, "Well let's go down to Heavenly Fathers housel The
Temple) and see him then. Recently when one got a bee sting, they called
their grandpa to come and help them with it.
them just to be with them and love them. I heard a story from one of the
Grandchildren, They asked where grandpa was and why didn't he wake up.
They were told that Grandpa had gone to be with Heavenly Father. The
grandchild then said, "Well let's go down to Heavenly Fathers housel The
Temple) and see him then. Recently when one got a bee sting, they called
their grandpa to come and help them with it.
i'.
He
has had many church callings over the years and has served the
Lord
faithfully. The most notable was his long time service as the Sunday
School President, and the assistant finance clerk where he took care of the
contributions every Sunday for many years. I am told he was a 100 percent
home teacher for many years, serving his families in a loving way.
School President, and the assistant finance clerk where he took care of the
contributions every Sunday for many years. I am told he was a 100 percent
home teacher for many years, serving his families in a loving way.
He and our older sister were both inflicted with the
painful and
crippling Rheumatoid' Arthritis which our mother also had. All three of them
had this disease so bad that the last 30 to 40 years of their lives they were
not ever without much pain and the quality of life was much affected.
crippling Rheumatoid' Arthritis which our mother also had. All three of them
had this disease so bad that the last 30 to 40 years of their lives they were
not ever without much pain and the quality of life was much affected.
In 1991 he retired from his business because of his health, but he
never gave up. He kept going as much as he could until the end. I know he
hated not being active and able to work. Being on medication was not
never gave up. He kept going as much as he could until the end. I know he
hated not being active and able to work. Being on medication was not
, something he liked, but as time went on, he had to take many medications
and suffered more than most can understand.
and suffered more than most can understand.
During these years from his retirement, he had some time to be really
close to his grandchildren and with his children. He loved his family very
close to his grandchildren and with his children. He loved his family very
much.
He called his daughters on the phone each day as he thought of things
that he wanted to tell them. If they were not home he left a message on
their machines. His message was usually his testimony, to make sure they
that he wanted to tell them. If they were not home he left a message on
their machines. His message was usually his testimony, to make sure they
knew that he believed
in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He also left messages of
council and a advise. He
generally left a blessing on the home and family.
I've always had a special individual relationship with my
brother
Brent. He and I could council with each other at any time. We talked about
things that were important in our lifes and with the family.
Brent. He and I could council with each other at any time. We talked about
things that were important in our lifes and with the family.
He was much like our father, kind and gentle and loving.
He
appreciated anything anybody did for him and thanked them over and over.
appreciated anything anybody did for him and thanked them over and over.
c.
I
know that my Brother Brent, my sister Beth, and my brother Gordon and
my
Mother and Father have now all passed on. to abetter life. I visualize
-
them
together now - doing knee bends, flexing their hands and perhaps
jogging
around the block. I know that they will all be resurrected. Brent
loved the Lord. He desired always to serve him and I know that he is
worthy and now in his service in another peaceful place without pain. I
know these things because of my testimony in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and
knowledge I have of it of which I testify in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
loved the Lord. He desired always to serve him and I know that he is
worthy and now in his service in another peaceful place without pain. I
know these things because of my testimony in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and
knowledge I have of it of which I testify in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
My Recollections of Brent Gale Talbot
Written by Judy Talbot Henrie
January -1996
My brother, Brent, was the second
oldest in our family. I am the youngest.
This means there is approximately 19 years difference in our ages. My
recollections of him are influenced by this span in our ages.
This means there is approximately 19 years difference in our ages. My
recollections of him are influenced by this span in our ages.
Brent was in his nineteenth year when
I was born. (He turned nineteen in
March and I was born in December.) He married in August of 1953, and I did
not turn four until December. I do not have any recollections of his
marriage. I do, however, remember visiting his home in Parowan. I liked to
go there, especially after his oldest child (Mitzie) was born as I could hold
and play with her. She was approximately seven years yo~nger than me.
March and I was born in December.) He married in August of 1953, and I did
not turn four until December. I do not have any recollections of his
marriage. I do, however, remember visiting his home in Parowan. I liked to
go there, especially after his oldest child (Mitzie) was born as I could hold
and play with her. She was approximately seven years yo~nger than me.
Brent did a lot to build my
self-esteem. Every time he came home to Paragonah
for a visit, he would give me nice compliments, such as: you look so cute
today, or how pretty you look. I never. had an overabundance of confidence in
growing up, so I appreciated this very much. These compliments often brought
me happiness long after. Sometimes I hoped he would come just-because I knew
he would cheer my day.- His ability to compliment continued through all my
growing years, and he was still giving compliments when I married and visited
his home. He gave compliments to me and my husband, Carl.
for a visit, he would give me nice compliments, such as: you look so cute
today, or how pretty you look. I never. had an overabundance of confidence in
growing up, so I appreciated this very much. These compliments often brought
me happiness long after. Sometimes I hoped he would come just-because I knew
he would cheer my day.- His ability to compliment continued through all my
growing years, and he was still giving compliments when I married and visited
his home. He gave compliments to me and my husband, Carl.
He always showed respect to mom and
dad. He helped repair things while
visiting us, and later when he operated furniture stores, he helped mom and
dad by giving them great discounts on things for the house, or by giving them
things that were needed, such as couches, chairs, mattresses, carpet, etc. I
participated in the enjoyment of these things because ~ was still at home.
visiting us, and later when he operated furniture stores, he helped mom and
dad by giving them great discounts on things for the house, or by giving them
things that were needed, such as couches, chairs, mattresses, carpet, etc. I
participated in the enjoyment of these things because ~ was still at home.
I liked to visit the furniture stores
where he worked. I was so fun to wander
up and down the isles looking at the wonderful things in the store.
up and down the isles looking at the wonderful things in the store.
Brent liked to take pictures. i enjoyed looking at the slides of places he
had been. He liked to talk and tell experiences and stories. He had a great
laugh, and I liked to do things to make him laugh just to hear it.
had been. He liked to talk and tell experiences and stories. He had a great
laugh, and I liked to do things to make him laugh just to hear it.
Mom, dad, and I would drive to St. George
to visit his and Sherlie's home. I
enjoyed going there. Brent always made us feel welcome. We felt he genuinely
wanted us there.'
enjoyed going there. Brent always made us feel welcome. We felt he genuinely
wanted us there.'
I will always be grateful to Brent for
his kindness when I had the chicken
pox. I'm not sure how old I was, but I remember being very miserable. I
didn't feel good and the rash covered my body and itched like crazy. Mom
tried e~erything to make me comfortable, but nothing worked. Then Brent
appeared at our door with a bottle of calamine lotion. I remember how
soothing it was as we rubbed it over my body. I felt so much better and was
able to tolerate the chicken pox until they left .
pox. I'm not sure how old I was, but I remember being very miserable. I
didn't feel good and the rash covered my body and itched like crazy. Mom
tried e~erything to make me comfortable, but nothing worked. Then Brent
appeared at our door with a bottle of calamine lotion. I remember how
soothing it was as we rubbed it over my body. I felt so much better and was
able to tolerate the chicken pox until they left .
..
I was impressed with the way Brent
handled the great challenge with his health
Especially the arthritis. I never remember hearing him complain of the
pain. I believe he worked long hours
just to help block it out of his mind.
He was a good example of endurance.
I was always proud of him. I am thankful he was my older brother.
1.
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