Dying Vietnam War veteran gives away all his possessions

A 65-year-old Vietnam War veteran battling colon cancer and facing terminal lung disease has decided to give all his possessions away, including his house upon his passing, and is willing his retirement funds to his alma mater’s nursing school.

People reported that Bob Karlstrand, an only child that never had children, has a positive attitude despite his life’s certain outcome.

Karlstrand have been giving his things away for a while, including furnishings, rugs and even appliances.  “Most of the things I can remember having.  Maybe some pictures I will keep but in the end it’s only material things,” he said.

The veteran has willed his house in Maple Grove, Minnesota to Habitat of Humanity.  His only stipulation is that his home of 38 years be given to a veteran.  The organization will rehab Karlstrand’s home and help a new family move in.

“It’s a real legacy for a family and we’re really grateful,” said Susan Haigh, a spokeswoman for the charity.

“I wanted to give back to the veterans if I could,” Karlstrand said.

According to KARE11, a few months ago Karlstrand decided to donate his retirement fund to the nursing school at his alma mater University of Minnesota.  He graduated from the business school at the university.

Dean of UofM, Connie White Delaney said, “The school receives many gifts.  This one is just deeply touching.”

“If I can help a little bit that will be good,” Karlstrand said.

The “little bit” amounted to a $1 million endowment that will provide six scholarships this year and more in the future.  Although he won’t be able to meet all the students he is going to help, he said, “The fact that I know they are going to be helped is good enough for me.”

“Over the years I’ve been very fortunate to know a lot of nurses. Well, maybe not so fortunate to know a lot of nurses,” he said on why he chose the nursing school.

“I’ve had a good life, so I can’t complain at all,” Karlstrand said.