My Pop Pop is gone

On June 18, 2007 my Pop Pop fell asleep in death. He was 82 years old. He was the only Grandfather I had ever known. He has been in my life for 35 years and will be deeply missed. I am his first granddaughter. I am grateful for that for many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that he was able to meet two of my children. Although my daughter will not have the privilege of knowing her great-grandfather, my boys do. Jacob can vividly remember Pop Pop taking him bowling and Benjamin remembers him as well.

My grandparent's have lived on the Eastern side of the United States most of my life, and we have lived on the West. However, they have managed to maintain a close relationship with myself and all of my brothers and sisters throughout our lives. The photo below was taken at my brother Dennis's High School graduation party (my Mother is in the middle). This was just one of their many journeys out West.

Once my Grandfather learned of our intentions to adopt, he took a vested interest. I can remember him and my Grandmother standing in my kitchen asking all kinds of questions about our adoptions process. After answering all of his questions, I received a smile of approval from him, and my Grandmother received a personal viewing of "China's Lost Girls".

I am deeply saddened that he will not be here to watch us complete our adoption journey. I am equally saddened for my cousins (who were so close to him), whose children he will never have the privilege of meeting.

I could create an entire blog to dedicate to him, but for now I will just let the world know (and my daughter) that my Pop Pop will be missed.

Thank you, Pop Pop, for loving us all unconditionally!! You are one of the bravest men I have ever known!