Summer 2004
Jess Bryant
May 22, 1948--August 8, 2004
Dear Family, Friends, Co-Workers and Colleagues of my beloved Dad:
These past several weeks have been truly been a challenge, however, with your support and prayers I have managed to stand up and be the man my Dad would have wanted me to be during these very difficult times.
Dad, AKA, "Mr. B.L.M." (for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management where he spent his entire working career) was a very proud, super independent and stubborn person! Born in Marigold, Mississippi in a family headed by two wonderful parents and now, fifteen living brothers and sisters, he traveled light years from his humble roots to Oregon, Idaho, California, and back to Mississippi in his quest for a quality life.
He was the greatest Dad on earth. I fondly remember spending time with him playing basketball in the backyard and eating at various restaurants including Mr. Perry's diner and Skippers (where I was the Eating Machine contest winner). Dad always made time for me. He took me to baseball games and taught me the importance of good sportsmanship. He watched me being born at St. Vincent's Hospital in Portland, Oregon. He was the room monitor for my parent cooperative preschool. Out of all the people who could have served, I chose Dad as my sponsor for my first communion at Holy Spirit Catholic Church and he made many financial sacrifices by sending me to Jesuit High School. He was an active member of the Jesuit Booster Club even though my skills as a freshman football team member were questionable. He again sacrificed by supporting me when I attended Fresno State University and went into the military. He has always stood by me and, in spirit, he continues to surround me with his presence, blessing me and wanting nothing but the best for me.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who helped me, supported me, respected my Dad's legacy and kept me grounded during this last month. Thank you for the flowers, condolences, food, notes and words of encouragement and sympathy. Your sentiments will never be forgotten. Thanks also for making my Dad's homegoing special. All of our ancestors who have gone before him now welcome him with open arms and laugh with delight as he tells his crazy jokes with that awesome smile!
Love,
Mark A. Bryant
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