Sunday, May 17, 2020
How do you list out a few memories of a loved one like your grandad who has been an integral part of your life for 42 years? I have many fond memories of Grandad but I think my most memorable were in my early primary school years. When we came home to 50 Walton for lunch, Grams would be working on a flower arrangement or finishing a painting, and Grandad would be in the kitchen making us lunch; possibly weiners and beans or KD, or maybe sandwiches. Either way, lunch was always ready when we got home, and once we were done we would play Uno or another card game with Grandad until we went back to school. Sometimes he would win, and sometimes we would, but it was always time well spent with Grandad. We would also spend a lot of time in their backyard, helping Grandad garden, or BBQ some steak or handmade burgers.
Grandad was rarely the center of attention, and he really didn’t care to play that position; however, he played the best supporting character with poise and patience. As a child, he never missed a hockey game, or music concert, and would always give some thoughtful words of encouragement, even if my performance was not exactly stellar on that day. Grandad never wanted the kudos or praise, but was ALWAYS there when you needed him, quitely cheering in your corner. Grandad was the constant, the rock in our family. As I got older and married Jane, and had two children, Brady and Spencer, Grandad was just as supportive of my family as he was with me for all of these years. Again, Grandad wouldn't miss a party for his grandchildren, and would nurse that one beverage (sometimes a beer) until you basically forced him to have another one! Grandad never wanted to inconvenience any of us, and was forever selfless.
Grandad gave me his tool drawer when he moved into Amica, and I think of him every time I dig into the drawers. We are in the process of making a vegetable garden this year, and will be planing some vegetables in his honor this Spring. We will miss you Grandad!
