Dear Uncle Nathan,

When deciding upon a name for our first son, we knew we wanted to name him after someone he could look up to, come to for advice, and to teach him how to navigate the trials and tribulations of this life. We believe that you are one person who Benton can turn to. Although Wayne didn't go along with Benton quite as nice as Blayne, we wanted to honor you in naming our oldest son after you for many reasons.

It is obvious to all that know you what a hard worker you have always been. From a very young age you operated and managed your own business, putting in many sweaty hours taking care of other people's yards. You have always excelled in school while managing to play sports and maintaining many friendships all at the same time. You are always will to lend a hand to those in need, whether it be moving your sisters all over Texas for the umpteenth time, mowing our yard when we were unable, babysitting, digging out trucks stuck in the mud, or taking care of Fred when we were out of town. All of this you do with a happy heart, a good attitude, and a determination to have fun no matter your circumstances.

You are also a great example of how to go through life with a positive attitude and how to have a great time no matter what you're doing. Some of your pranks have gotten you into trouble, such as when you got caught throwing water balloons at cars driving down Buffalo Gap Road. You are always a source of laughter like when you dressed up as Private Investigator Howard Hathorn for Halloween. You will have payback for many things like giving Benton a bag full of 100 small balls for his birthday. We will enjoy returning the favor someday.

You are compassionate to others and a great friend to those around you. I don't know if that's because your were raised with two sisters, but you have always shown yourself as someone who can relate well to others. You are often a friend to those who others might ignore. Relationships are something you work hard at, evidenced by so many of your friends you have had since junior high and high school. You have developed a reputation as someone who will listen and help others in their time of need. You are a loving uncle to Clara, Benton, and Ben. You are a great brother-in-law to Zach and Hunter. You are a devoted brother and son, and pretty soon a loving husband to Katie. Also important to you is your relationship with God. You have always been a leader: to the youth group, to your friends, and now to Katie. All of these things we know you will help to teach to our son someday as the time arises. We were honored to pass on your name to our son

Benton Blayne Hanner