Humble Hero

Hello dear friends.  

I know it's been a little while since I've popped in, but the unexpected break I took was needed.  If you follow along with me on instagram or Twitter, you might know that I lost my dear grandfather, or Opa, as I called him exactly one week ago.  There aren't any words that could describe how tough it's been...this whole year actually losing my two grandmothers as well.  As for my Opa, my hubby and I have been living and taking care of him, as well as my grandmother when she was alive for over a year now.  It's been challenging at times, but it's also been a huge honor and is something I will always cherish.  Both of them mean the world to me...they always will and I consider myself so incredibly blessed to have had them in my life for so long.  Though my grandfather was 92, his passing came unexpectedly.  I miss him so much.  He was quite a wonderful man and lived such an amazing life.  Orphaned at a young age, joined the army, survived the attack on Pearl Harbor, and went on to raise a family and commit much of his life to volunteering and serving at local charities.  He was a kind man with a big heart despite his small body and the most patriotic person I have ever known.

Growing up, there were countless times he took me along with him on his Meals on Wheels runs, delivering Christmas gifts to needy families in Harrisburg, and even to the local hospital where he served as a volunteer.  He always wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of (even the ducks at the pond down the street).   He did anything and everything for his grandchildren...he loved us all so much.  Every night before I went to bed he would give me a kiss and sweetly say, "I love you baby, you know I would do anything for you".   And that's just it, Opa always made each and every one of us feel genuinely love because he was so full of love himself.

Below is a link to the article that was written about him from the day of the funeral which was featured on the front page of The Patriot News.

It was pretty special that Senator Vance, Former Harrisburg Mayor - Mayor Reed, Captain James Smart, Commanding Officer from the NSA and the honor guard from Andrews Airforce Base were there to participate in the ceremony and honor my Opa.

Friends, family, call Pearl Harbor survivor, a great American Hero

Opa, I love you so much and will forever keep you close to my heart.  Thanks for all the special memories that you and Oma have given to me.  I will treasure them always.  Now I know you are in a better place and reunited with the love of your life, your beautiful Susie once again.

A picture taken of us not long after I gave birth to Keane.  Opa loved him so much and loved going on walks with us.

Thanks to much to each one of you that have read this.  I will be back later this week, back to the swing of things.  Until then, have a marvelous week!

Love,