I believe it was from Grandpa Hathaway that I got my love of playing piano by ear. He taught me how to play Chopsticks and Heart & Soul, and the memory of sitting at the piano with him will stick with me forever. I've always loved Grandpa for his incredible faith in the Savior, and his love for his family. What a blessing we have to know of life after death, and the promise that families can be together forever.

What an incredible guy he is! If I live to become like him, I'll consider my life an incredible success. His funeral was beautiful, and reflected his testimony of the Savior, his love of his family, and his fun sense of humor.

I had a simple, though unexpected experience at his funeral. The closing song was, "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." When I first saw that on the program, I thought, "Oh, no. I'm going to be a blubbering bawl-baby." But just the opposite happened. It felt triumphant, more like singing an anthem than a goodbye. Maybe I was the only one who felt that, I don't know, but I felt like we were singing it as a glorious cheer for a life well lived, a token that though we will be separated for a time, we'll see one another again soon, and the best is yet to come.

That's why I had to make an arrangement of this piece.

Later, I put together a few thoughts on death.

Were this the only state of existence—even life itself, filled with such vibrance as it is, would be a tragedy.
 
But our true selves, the essence of our nature, the spirit that invigorates our flesh, was born of eternal matter, to parents more lasting than the universe itself. 
 
We live on.

We sometimes call death a passing. If death is a passing, it's like passing a friend in the hallway. First he comes into view, and we acknowledge him, then he passes. He isn't gone. He doesn't cease to exist because he is no longer before us. He passes, walks on, lives on.

We sometimes call death a journey. If death is a journey, it's like a journey from one room into the next. The friend isn't far simply because she is in the next room. She is still close enough to hear and see, except for a thin wall; a wall that sometimes better resembles glass than concrete.

Some call death a separation. If death is a separation, it's like stepping back from an embrace. Without physical contact, we may experience loneliness. But even eye contact, one of the most powerful connections, can be maintained at a short, if temporary distance.

Perhaps we're uncomfortable with goodbyes because deep down, we know there is no such thing. Were it not for the Savior Jesus Christ, all goodbyes would be final. But because of Him, they no longer exist. And for those who choose His path, the reunions will be glorious.

I love you, Grandpa Hathaway.

Grandpa you have always been a GIANT among men, both physically and spiritually. Thank you for your example, love, stories and humor, they will never be forgotten. And don't worry about grandma we will take care of her.

Grandpa passed away today after a long fight with Cancer. He was a remarkable man! James and I had the opportunity to visit him and Grandma every month or so during the years we lived in Utah. I grew to love them as my own Grandparents. Grandpa could play the piano by ear, tell silly jokes that made me smile, had puzzles he completed hung all over his walls, and always had a twinkle in his eyes! Him and I have the same heart problem, so I felt connected to him as we shared Cardiology stories! :) We've missed seeing them as often since we've moved away, and it's been hard to see him decline in health these past few years. He's such a powerful man, both physically and spiritually. We're going to miss you Grandpa Hathaway! I'll always remember the special moments we had together. Thank-you for adopting me as your own Granddaughter! I always felt your love. With love, Martha Aston (posted on facebook April 18th).

Grandpa, I am honored to have been named after you.  I have always been proud to tell people that I carried the same name as the best grandfather anyone could ask for.  You know, the the kind of grandpa that is alway immortalized in books and memories.  Thank you for being the grandpa that was never too busy to stop and spend time with me, to show me your woodworking tools, to share with me your love of puzzles, to show me your special fishing techniques.  Thank you for being the kind of man I could look up to.  I love you and will miss you always.

You know the people in your life that you love being around? The ones that make you feel comforted, loved, accepted, validated, and important all at the same time. The ones who listen attentively when you talk with them and who talk with you rather than at you. Instinctively, you know you can trust and rely on them if needed. To add a cherry on top, they make you laugh when you are happy and when you are sad. Grandpa Hathaway is one of those people in my life. I miss him and love him dearly.

Grandpa Hathaway proved without a doubt that it's somehow possible to fit great strength, kindness, humility, love, and dedication all in the same person. He always listened and shared his wisdom through gentle actions. Wherever he was felt like home. I am very thankful that I knew him and spent so many holidays with him and my equally wonderful grandma!

Dear Hathaway Family,
Van was a top notch guy!!  We enjoyed him as our outstanding bass in the "Seventy-Four" quartet some years ago in the Seventy Quorum. Van loved music and we loved Van.  I'm sure he was a blessing to your family. We look forward to seeing Van again.
Love Grant & Susie Hood

Bro. Hathaway was our Home Teacher.  He was a great Home Teacher.  He was so good to our family.  We will miss him.  I loved his lessons.  They had so much love and insight to the gospel.  He will be missed by our family. Our love and concern for the family.  My the Holy Ghost help you though this challenge.  Love RETA AND DEL RAY BEVAN

He was a loving, caring, intelligent and hilarious man. He treated me with nothing but respect and love the last 12 years I've had the chance to be part of the family. He is my husband, Van's, namesake and I know how honored Van has been to be named after him and proud of his legacy. We love you and will miss you!

Uncle Van, you are already missed .  We love you and know you are having a wonderful reunion with your family in Heaven.  I can imagine how hilariously funny it is going to be or was.  You all told the best stories.  I only wish we could call you on our cell phone just for a quick chat.  I give my love to Aunt Corinne and all your children.  I am sorry for your loss.

I loved this man...he was my Bishop.  He was a "gentle giant" of a man.  I am sorry about his death. My thoughts go out to Corinne...

My wife, Karyn, and I served on an activities committee with Van and Corinne. I loved sitting near them at church and hearing Van's wonderful singing voice. How we love them, and how he will be missed!

It was with sadness this morning to read the obituary for Vandis. I'm so thankful that we were able to see both of you several months ago. We send our love and sympathy to you and the family. I know he will finding a lot of things to do and a lot of friends and family members greet again.
Love
Dale & Thuy Fitzgerald

We are so sorry for your loss.  John joins me in sending our love and prayers to all you at this tender time.   Those we love live forever in our hearts.  Heart to heart always.

Doug, we're sorry for your loss. Although you knew this was coming it is still a sad time to go through. We wish you the best over the coming days and know with your  knnowledge of the gospel you will accept this as God's answer to take him from his pain and misery. Bob and Roene Olson

Dear Aunt Corinne and family, 
I am relieved Uncle Van is at peace and no longer suffering.  He is such a kind man, tall in stature both physically, and spiritually.  When I think of him, I think of my dad.  They both had a calm, peaceful, loving, reassuring way about them.  I have been pondering the graduation we get when we move into the "Heavenly Realm", and realized that there are far more loved ones on that side of the veil than this side.  He is being welcomed by a loving family who has a vested interest in him, and family still here on earth.  We will miss him, but he is in the loving arms of those who sent him here, and/or served here too.  I mourn his loss and celebrate his freedom from pain.  My heart goes out to you at this time.  May you have comfort and peace.

Love, Becky West

OBITUARY

Vandis Jensen Hathaway

Valley View Memorial Park and Funeral Home

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