by George Gurule
I would like to thank all our dear friends and family that have come to honor my father, Jose Gurule’, also known as Hippie to me. My dad would hassle me for having long hair and the way I dressed in the 70’s. One day his hair was over his ears, imagine that. I called him Hippie and the name stuck. Time has not changed much, I am now telling my son to pull up his pants.
Dad was a simple man, his best education came from the school of hard knocks and his life experiences. He had the ability to take things apart and put them back together, on occasion, he would have a few extra parts. His comment was that they were not needed or they were extra.
Dad showed us by example that nothing is impossible if you have faith in God, support from family and friends, make up your mind and work hard toward your goals.
Hippie was a jokester – some of his jokes were pretty dry. He used his humor and smile to make you feel comfortable and would draw you into his happy world. No one could resist his mischievous smile and twinkling eyes. No one was a stranger and he could befriend anyone. He loved to share his thoughts and ideas and he was always willing to give of his time, talent, and effort to anyone who needed it.
When working with our dad, it was his way or no way, when he wasn’t looking we did it “our way.” However I do have to admit that sometimes, his was the right way. There are times you have to be open to someone else’s ideas and feelings to make things work.
He was strong and led us with a firm hand. He taught us to honor and respect others. He helped mold our characters into the individuals we are today. We are a strong family when we pull together. Now it is our time to step up and come together as a family making his way - into our way – the Gurule way.
We always think that we will have tomorrow to touch someone’s life but life is to short. We need to take the time today to look for the good instead of dwelling on the bad. Reach out and let your loved ones know how much they are loved, for if you don’t, you may not have the opportunity tomorrow.
