In Memory of Great Grandpa "Papa"

Things have been so busy (and I hate using that excuse), and I never got a chance to write a post when my grandfather passed away on April 9th, only 9 days after we spent Easter with him.
So it was perfect timing this Memorial Day, to say a few words about our Papa.

I've been unbelievably blessed to have had such a wonderful grandfather and known him for 33 years. He was an American hero who served our country in WWII and remained very active in the Legion. We spent time listening to his war stories and were able to capture his memories, stories and mementos in a scrapbook that we will all share for generations to come. Papa was our family patriarch, whom we all respected and looked up to. He was a faithful  Catholic and being able to be with him while he received his last rites and  communion was one of the most incredible memories I'll ever have. I can't even explain how I felt during that moment of true faith. To see someone totally trust in God at one of the most vulnerable moments in life, was very calming. I can only hope to have that deep faith at that point in my life. Papa was also the beloved husband of 67 years to my grandmother, Mimi. He cherished her. More than anything in this world. And the love between them was unmistakable when seeing them hold hands during the last days of his life. 

Missing him doesn't say enough. So grateful he was able to meet and cherish Eva; I used to be so afraid that he'd be gone before I was able to have a child, so knowing he was able to see her many times before he passed, means so much. I look forward to sharing his stories with her.
I'll always love and cherish our memories and never forget my Papa.