One of the things I miss most about my dad is the daily conversations and the countless learning experiences we shared. I long to call him each day on my way home from work, eager to hear about the projects he was working on. He would inquire about Amy and my daughter, displaying a deep love for my family that words can’t truly capture. His absence has left a void that can never be filled. My dad wasn’t just a father; he was one of my best friends, and that unique bond can never be replaced.
Discovering Dad’s Legacy in a Green Coleman Lantern
After my father’s passing, I stumbled upon his green Coleman lantern and an old mustard-yellow Coleman camp stove. We used that stove to cook catfish on occasion, and it had seen better days, with a rusted hole in the bottom right corner that my dad had patched with a piece of metal. This discovery ignited my passion for collecting Coleman lanterns. I wanted to restore that stove to its former glory, hoping to preserve the memories of my dad and the times we spent together.
The Rare Mustard-Colored Stove with a Special Story
While diving into this restoration project, I discussed it with a friend who informed me that the mustard-colored stove was quite rare. It was exclusively obtainable through Gold Bond grocery stamps. This revelation added an extra layer of significance to the stove. I realized that there was a thriving market for Coleman products, and many people shared my passion for restoring and collecting these items.
 Working Through Grief with a Project
This is how I found the old camp stove
You can see the hole in the back corner.
During this time, I was still grappling with the shock and sorrow of losing my dad. The need for a project was essential to keep my mind busy and my spirits up. Restoring that stove became more than just a hobby; it was a way to pay homage to my father’s memory and carry on the legacy of the countless projects he undertook throughout his life. In every turn of the wrench and every shine on that mustard-yellow stove, I found solace and a way to hold onto the cherished memories of my dad.
Taking the First Step into Restoration
When I embarked on the journey of restoring that old mustard-colored Coleman camp stove, I knew very little about the intricacies of restoration. The stove itself bore the marks of my father’s attempts to maintain it, with signs of spray paint on its interior, a desperate measure to stave off further rusting. Armed with determination and a sense of purpose, I decided to take the plunge, thinking, “I can’t make it much worse.”
Preserving a Piece of the Past
As I began to restore the stove, I found myself engaged in conversations with my father, as if he were right there beside me, guiding me through the intricate process of restoration. His memory became my mentor, whispering in my ear and providing advice on each step of the project. I could visualize him standing by my side, sharing his knowledge and wisdom. My determination to restore the stove to its original condition burned brightly, fueled by the desire to make my father proud.
A Six-Week Journey of Dedication
The restoration process was a labor of love that spanned approximately six weeks. With every passing day, I was haunted by the fear that I might irreversibly damage the stove, especially given my inexperience with such endeavors. But the sense of my father’s presence remained a constant companion, offering both guidance and reassurance. I was driven by a deep-rooted commitment to do justice to this family heirloom and honor my father’s memory.
The Final Touch
After tirelessly laboring over the stove, ensuring each component was properly refurbished, it was time for the finishing touch. I took the stove to a local body shop, where they expertly matched and applied the original paint. This was a crucial step to guarantee that all the hard work and dedication I had poured into the project resulted in a stove that looked just as it should. The result was a beautifully restored and authentic mustard-colored Coleman camp stove, a testament to my determination and a tribute to my father’s legacy.
In the wake of my father’s passing, I was left with a profound void, a longing for the conversations and learning experiences we shared. The simple act of calling him on my way home from work to discuss our daily lives had been a cherished routine. My father was not just a parent; he was one of my best friends, and his loss left a hole no one else could fill.
Restoration as a Path to Healing
The discovery of my father’s green Coleman lantern and mustard-colored camp stove sparked a new chapter in my life. I had no prior experience with restoration, but I was determined to breathe life back into these cherished relics. These projects were my way of connecting with my father, a way to keep his memory close and tangible.
Conversations with an Absent Mentor
As I delved into the restoration process of the camp stove, I found myself engaged in conversations with my father, even though he was no longer physically present. Each task, each disassembled part, was an opportunity to bond with his memory. I would imagine him standing beside me, guiding me through the intricate steps of the restoration process. The fear of failure couldn’t deter me because I was driven by my desire to make him proud.
Embracing the Journey
My journey into restoration was not without its trials, and each step was marked by my father’s indomitable spirit. The confidence he had in life and projects was something I admired and longed to emulate. Working on the lantern and camp stove, I learned that the process of restoration could be a spiritual and emotional experience, a way to bridge the gap between this world and the next.
A Lifelong Connection
During those weeks of tireless work, my father’s presence was palpable, even though I couldn’t see him. The absence of his physical presence was a constant reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones. I had taken my father’s companionship for granted, but now that he was gone, I realized the depth of my loss.
Learning from the Past
My father’s relationship with me and his influence on my life became a source of inspiration. His open-hearted approach to people and the way he showed love and care served as a model for my own behavior. I felt compelled to honor his memory by being more like him, by being present for others, and by being kind and caring.
Living Every Day as the Last
The passing of my father and others in such a short span of time was a stark reminder of life’s brevity. It emphasized the importance of living each day as if it were our last. We need to treat others with kindness and build meaningful connections because we never know when they or we will be gone.
Grief and Restoration
Grief is a challenging and often lonely path, but it can also be a catalyst for positive change. By channeling my grief into these restoration projects, I found a healthy and constructive way to cope with my loss. The lanterns and camp stove became not only reminders of my father but also outlets for creativity and healing.
Enduring Memories
Memories have the power to transcend time, and the bond with our loved ones never truly fades away. I now understand the importance of creating memories with my family and loved ones, as these are the ties that keep us connected even when we are no longer physically present.
Offering Support to Those Who Grieve
For those who are grieving or feeling alone, there are countless ways to find solace. Each journey through grief is unique, and it’s essential to find a healthy outlet for that grief, be it through restoration projects, conversations with your loved one, or any other method that offers comfort. Grief should not be carried in isolation; reaching out to others who understand your pain is a crucial step in healing.
Closing Thoughts
To those who may be grieving, Hebrews 13:5 reminds us of God’s promise never to leave or forsake us, providing solace during our darkest hours. And as James 4:14 wisely notes, life is fleeting, like a mist that vanishes. This realization underscores the importance of living each day with love and kindness, treasuring the moments we have with our loved ones. If you’re currently dealing with grief or need someone to talk to, please reach out to us at rentfreemedia@rent-freeliving.com. We are here to listen and support you. If you feel inspired to share your story, we welcome your contributions.