“Kind and Generous. One of the best men I have been blessed to know” (Terrie Petersen, grand-daughter in law)

Typical for men in the depression years, Sid worked at whatever he could to keep bread on the table and a roof over the heads of his growing family. He was a “Jack of all trades,” adept at “making do,” mending with bailing wire, keeping things running. Myrtle and Sidney, served in the community and church and enjoyed the growing up years of their children being “mom and dad” to many, supporting them in their activities, inviting them to their home. This continued with grandchildren. They were protective of their children, who never heard “their dad tell a sexy or off-color joke.” He enjoyed a good clean time and liked to see others having a good time too. He pulled bobsled with his team of horses turning that sled round and round, flipping those kids out in the snow. Sid took his family role to heart; he taught, he loved, he scolded, he played, he supported. He and his sweetheart were always on hand for everything; baseball, wrestling, football, softball, proud of the accomplishments of family members. “Sid’s shop was a place of learning and the boys enjoyed working with him. Grandpa was always fussy about keeping his tools in the right place and taking care of things. So it was with his animals: he followed his dad’s training and always took care of the horses, unharnessed them, brushed them down and fed them before he had his own meal.” He was honorable and endured cheerfully throughout his life, a great example to his posterity. (Adapted by Kenneth R. Hardman from Sidney Lehi Hardman & Myrtle Emily Elton: Their Life, Their Love and Their Family, 1900-1991 compiled by Dorothy Hardman. Photo from family files) #AncestorClips

Inherited Traits – SL Hardman is my grandfather. As I examine my traits and tendencies with his, I see a number of similarities. He became good at many trades, I feel accomplished in many aspects of my field of engineering. SL and Myrtle supported their children and their children’s friends; Joan and I love to attend the activities of our children and we love to have our children’s friends in our home. Grandpa loved to teach his trades to youth, I love to mentor young engineers.

Patterns of Goodness – There are some qualities of his I would like to cultivate. I would like to put more energy into helping others have fun. Also, I never learned, “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” Most of all I want to follow his example of goodness, honor, and enduring cheerfully every day. Thank you, grandpa for your wonderful example. You’re still teaching me.