Sorrow comes in great waves...but it rolls over us, and though it may almost smother us.it passes and we remain." - Henry James

My Grandpa was a humble man; he never liked to be the center of attention. In life and now in death, he wouldn't want us to focus on him. He wouldn't want us to focus on the sadness of his death, but instead focus on the happiness in our lives. He would want us to appreciate each other and our future.

A man as humble and loving as Grandpa will always be remembered by those of us who knew him and loved him. Although we will miss him, his smile, his pranks, his love, we take consolation in the good feelings of our memories. 

I remember when I was a little girl, visiting Grandma and Grandpa. Grandpa would help us make forts and haunted houses in the basement. After it was built he pretend to go do something but he'd sneak back and scare us, or play tricks on us. And we'd shriek with fright but then laugh until our faces were sore because we knew it was Grandpa having fun with us. Then we'd go upstairs for a huge, delicious meal that Grandma would have prepared for us. 

Every Christmas, Grandpa used to dress up as Santa, and sometimes even the Easter Bunny. I was so excited when I saw him with a bag full of goodies. I would sit on his lap and I'd open the bag. It was so much fun. 

Whenever we would visit, Grandpa always played with us. We played board games, we'd have races and he would show me how his tools worked and we would build things together. One time we built a shelf that I hung up in my room, it's still there now. He was so much fun to be around, he loved to laugh and to have fun and I adored him. 

Grandpa always said that his grandchildren kept him young at heart. That made us feel good inside. I can see that my father got his fun loving spirit from grandpa. He was a great teacher to have, not only for my dad and us, but also for everybody. He was selfless and kind. He loved being a parent and grandparent. It was his calling in life.

Grandpa, I will always miss you. But I have so many wonderful memories to hang on to. You were a role model, and a friend. Your guidance and love will carry me through to the end of my days. I love you Grandpa, until we meet again.