I think I figured it out...{LONG & OT}

As I drove about 14-15 hours one way to get here I kept wondering why I was making this trip...It would have been so easy to just say...it's too far.  Sorry.  And EVERYONE would have understood.  Many people I expected to see didn't come.  So what's the point?  Casey's Family...that's the answer.  I learned what was behind the man who had impacted virtually everyone he came across.  Casey's uncle told me after talking with him for an hour today...I lost a nephew...but I gained a friend.  Casey worked in Law Enforcement before working at Target.  There was a contingency of troopers and cops with black bands on their badges.

Casey's boss gave a eulogy...and that was where I lost it.  He spoke directly to Casey's children and told a story about Alex...a forensic analyst in Las Vegas who is in a wheel chair.  Casey spent hours and hours with Alex to teach him how to do Video Forensics because he was doing Latent Prints but it was so hard for him because of his handicap. Casey single handidly help him re-invent himself and he is now successful.  Casey was Alex's hero.(I know Alex too and I had been assigned to mentor him into certification...Casey told me he is beyond being ready.) Then he turned to the children and said  that there are over 100 similar stories. 

Casey too, was my hero.  He was the one who helped me become certifed.  He was my biggest cheerleader when I was really frustrated in my career...unsure of my own skills and basically my ability to do my job.  He came along with absolute patience and encouragement.

At the grave site there were about 10 of his closest friends that gathered around and we toasted Casey with Jack Daniels (Casey's all time favorite) cordials.

I'm now back in my hotel trying to psych myself up for the 14 hour return.  I want to thank Elena for finding a link to Casey's local obit....if you have an interest, here it is.
CASEY CAUDLE

I am glad you figured it out. I told you that you would.  Have a good night.

You went because you have a heart the size of Texas.  Because you knew, even tho you haven't experience many deaths first hand in your life, that his family would be so moved that you cared enough to make the trip.  It speaks highly of the kind of person he was, that you would go to such lengths.  I know they appreciated your being there more than they could possibly say. 

Drive safely home, Paul.  I may call from the top of Power Tower 

When someone you admire so much passes on, its almost like a part of you is gone, too!  The family will never, ever forget your kindness and friendship with Casey.  Sometimes you do what you have to do.  It was obviously the right thing for you to do.

I hope you have safe travels back. 

ka

Paul, your post was so honest, so incredibly moving.  Sounds trite, though there are genuine, dynamic best friends we lose along the way, and their footprints stay forever in our heart of hearts.  Sincere blessings I wish for you as you heal. Take care of you, Patti (who chose green to signify eternal life)

Paul,

Thanks for sharing this......It just shows what kind of guy you are......Caring, supportive and genuine friendship & love for another person. I'm so glad to be getting to know the CAVEMAN, your a wonderful person, with a huge heart........

I'm sure Casey's family will always have a special place in their hearts for you........What a wonderful friend you are to casey & his family......

I will pray for your safe return home.........
Kelly

Wow! thanks for sharing. It sounds like he sure will be misssed. You drive safe. I'll call ya tomorrow (woops... today) when I get done with work.

Hugs,
Lori

Sounds like he was a great man.
And you are a great friend.
Return safe.

You continue to amaze me -- You have the world's biggest heart and you still don't see it.  Paul, if friendship and heart could be wrapped into a package -- it would look just like you.  Like Darla said, you went because you have the biggest heart!!!!

And believe it or not, your drive and presence at that service meant WAY more than you will ever know to his friends and family.  They have got to be soooooo proud of Casey's life to see a person who drove 14 hours to be there.  That said a lot about his life meaning something to more than he knew!!!!

I am humbled by your kindness!!!!

I've heard that one way to find out the quality of man is to see how many people attend his funeral.  Apparently Casey was an awesome guy. He will live on in the memory of many people.  God bless his soul, and may God bless his family, and especially comfort them in their loss.

Have a safe trip home, C'man, and God bless you, too.

((HUGS))
**SUE**