August 23, 2011

Rick Delos Wells' Celebration of Life





































Earlier this month, my son Isaac and I traveled out to Kahuku Hawaii to attend, not a funeral, but a celebration of life for Rick Wells. No funeral, just an open house/pool party with so much food I thought Rick was trying to kill all of us from the grave. Rick was literally a second father to me. I lived with their family when I was a punk kid teenager. They literally changed my life and I owe a lot of who I am today to that man. Rick taught Art at Brigham Young University in Laie Hawaii and influenced me a ton in wanting to teach.

I was really grateful that I could go out there with my son and be with my "family". There is nothing in this world that is more important to me than my family.

7 comments:

algreig said...

so much joy here, love these. and i completely agree, family is no ka oi :)

Kjrsten said...

very touching stuff Jon... I am slightly teary now. I love the emotion and heart here.

Leilani Bascom said...

He positively influenced so many people. I'm glad to see his family celebrate his life, and I join them.

said...

Blessings to the man for putting you under his wing, nurturing and encouraging you . . . a beautiful guy to share his faith and hope. Family is exactly what you've captured here, JC - and I love the self-portrait!

Polly Alexandre said...

Amazing work Jonathan. Love the last 2 shots especially.

sharibug said...

Jon for you to go to there home was an answered prayer of mine. I would have done anything for you and as your mother all because I loved you and love you so much. I can never pay them for all the good you received from them. I am very grateful you had this opportunity to grow and learn much about yourself. Thank you for the beautiful pictures that really speak tender mercies for all.

julie schenk said...

Now I'm finally caught up on the happenings. What a great tribute to such a dear man in your life. They are such a neat family and I love the way they said Good-bye. Thank you for sharing :)