-I usually don't read all the way through a garage build but I did with this one. First off, my condolences to you and your family for the loss of your FIL, his contributions to this project must be a somewhat bitter-sweet aspect when it reappears. Secondly, I'm rather impressed with the stages and end result of your garage. I've worked with a lot of engineers in my career and those that participate in the hands-on of their designs always raise my estimation of them. It was clearly a LOT of work and it really looks great. To have done all that with minimal help is quite the accomplishment. Must have been a few breathless moments when hoisting truss assemblies that nature brought a wind to fill your sails.
-As a CAD designer, I can appreciate how much the program helped with calculations/modifications/layout along the way. I can only estimate your assembly file sizes.

Your overkill/overbuild features were of particular interest to me, I design/build that way too. Certainly not on the level you've done but I've modeled the house I bought to help me with remodeling, material calculations, and planning floor space. As a long time BMW owner it was disappointing to see you lose the E30 that I hope served you well. I've had a 2002, E23 733i w/MT, and an E36 currently being raised from the dead. Liked all the photos you've included and sharing this entire thread with us, thanks.