This is certainly off topic and somewhat political. That's a disclaimer
so you needn't go further if it distresses you.

I grew up in West Michigan, specifically the 5th District. Gerald Ford
was a great part of my life, even as a child. My first remembrance of
him was when I was 12 and our class memorized "Barbara Fretchie" by J.G.
Whittier for a presentation of a flag to our school that had flown over
the Capitol building. Gerald Ford came to our school, we recited our
poem. Those of us who were Girl and Boy Scouts led an honor salute. We
sang "My Country Tis of Thee". Later on, I remember Gerald Ford through
his work in Congress, not only as our Representative but also as Speaker
of the House. I remember going to Washington, DC and being welcomed into
his office as a constituent. Without an appointment. I also knew,
through others, that Gerald Ford responded to personal requests made by
his constituents when they needed assistance with the workings of
government, whether that be to assist with the disability process, or
other things mundane.

O just finished watching his funeral at the National Cathedral. Gerald
Ford was all those things mentioned in his eulogies. Most of you only
know him from the short time he served as VP and President and for the
times he blundered around on the golf course. Henry Kissinger's remarks
were the most apt. Gerald Ford was truly one of the 10 decent men that
keep the world in focus. My heart goes out to his wife and family and I
feel a sense of personal loss for someone that played a great part i my
own life, as a resident of Michigan and as a citizen of the United
States. God bless Gerald R. Ford. I am sure he is a most welcome guest
at the pearly gates.