My Dad, Joe Armstong, died on July 14, 2001 and had chosen to be cremated. He requested that his ashes be scattered in the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. During the Depression years, he worked there as a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps . He has often said that is where he became a man. Learned about honest work for honest pay. He came a half-starved boy and left a man.
Dad's wishes were carried out on Sunday October 7, 2001. Almost the entire family was there: Chandra flew in from the Gambia in Africa, Marcus from Oregon, Michelle from California. All the kids and most of the Grandkids were there. We missed Jacinta, Elida, and Marta. We rented hotel rooms for the weekend and arranged to scatter the ashes on Sunday. It dawned cold and windy. We had snow, sleet, rain, and lots of wind.
Not being deterred, we all trooped to the top of the Pine Creek Gorge in Leonard Harrison State Park. We gathered at the Park's section that honored the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) workers. Looked out at the gorgeous fall scenery and decided to go over to the other side of the gorge to Colton Point State Park where we could find a more secluded spot. Here are some photos of the scattering and the scenery. I hope you enjoy looking at them. We honored my father that weekend. He was an incredible man. I wish you had known him. |
