In Memory Of Cody C. Hibma (2/9/87 - 9/2/15)

This is a memory post I wrote for a good friend who passed way too soon. Please feel to read on if you wish......

In the early morning hours of Wednesday, September 2nd, Cody Hibma passed away. A father, a son, a friend to so many, and very much loved, he was a very bright, caring and full of life kind of man, who left this world way too soon.

While it's true that my time knowing him was very brief, he somehow (and very unsurprisingly) made a positive impact on me, and even more so, on my son. So what I'd like to do here, is share a small letter with everyone, that I've written to him. My way to say thank you, goodbye, and pay respect to a man whom I wished I could've gotten to know better......

Dear Cody,

It's hard to know where to begin, and what to say during a time like this. And for many on the outside looking in, they may ask, "What can you say? You barely knew Cody.". While that's true, it's not about the time spent, but the memories you left with me.

I wanted to write to you to say thank you. First for the impact you made on my son. You were the nicest and kindest guy to him. You didn't talk to him like he was a little kid, but rather you talked to him and treated him as a buddy. Even from day one, when you didn't even know him. You played video games with him, took interest in what he had to say, and even gifted him with an entire book collection that meant a lot to you. My son is never going to forget you, and I promise he's going to be talking about you for a long long time to come. Thank you Cody for being such an upstanding guy to my son.

I also wanted to say thank you for taking the time to try to get to know me. Even when I knew how difficult it was going to be for you. My biggest regret is that I didn't get a chance to know you better. You were someone I wanted to hang out with. Drink some beer. Play video games. Crack jokes. You just seemed so cool. I'm so sad right now :(

I'll always remember our chats. The advice I gave you that one evening at the house. Even the random ones like you trying to help me figure out what exactly was wrong with my stupid jeep. True story? My jeep is still running like crap.

Cody, we all miss you. More than you know. And your ability to make a huge impact on anyone in such a short period of time, truly speaks volumes about the wonderful man that you were.

I also want to leave you with a promise. I promise to always be there for your family, friends, and loved ones in any way that I can. Be support to them. Especially the two ladies in your life that have a huge void in their life right now. Eileen and Chloe.

I care about them both so very much. And I hope that you saw that when you were still here. I will do anything I can for them. I promise.

So now, sadly, I have to end this letter and say goodbye. I wish I didn't have to. But my friend, you are not forgotten. Not by me, my son, your family, your friends, ......anyone. I truly hope you're at peace now, and I'm sure you're looking down on us all now, and will always be with us. On our minds, and in our hearts.

Rest in peace......

Sincerely, Your Friend,

Rob

PS. Apparently your daughter likes to eat butter now. So that's a thing lol. Took this picture at breakfast yesterday and wanted to share it with you......

Goodbye Cody...... :(