Don wasn’t just a figure in my life; he was a living embodiment of values, a model of integrity, and a source of unwavering love. Its essence resonates beyond time and memory, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of my being. His legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, wisdom,m, and love, a guiding light that continues to illuminate my path. Encapsulating his essence in mere words is an insurmountable task, for he was more than a grandfather; it was the cornerstone of love, it formed the very foundation of my existence.
Don’s life was a master class in character, love,e, and unwavering principles. His gentlemanly demeanor was not limited to his interactions but permeated every aspect of his being. It’s impossible to encapsulate the entirety of someone’s essence in mere words, but Don radiated a deep sense of sincerity and affection that touched all who knew him.
During his 92 years, he lived life to the fullest, embracing simple pleasures and nurturing cherished traditions. His passion for golf, evident even in his twilight years, embodied his resilience and zest for life. Celebrating his 92nd birthday with a remarkable game on the green was a symbol of his enduring spirit and love of the sport.
My grandparent’s lake cabin in Indiana was where I spent many summers. I always felt comfortable and safe at their home, even though I had my own dresser. They took me to their cocktail parties where my Shirley Temples (ginger beer and grenadine) welcomed me. Liz, my cousin, and I learned to ski from our dad. We joined them at the pool and dinner at the country club. He tried to teach us, girls, how to skin a fish but to no avail. My early childhood was filled with countless memories of that cabin by the lake and my family.
Ever since his wife, my grandmother, passed away about 13 years ago, Poppa and I have celebrated every Thanksgiving together in Florida. He insisted on making dinner every night using food from cans and boxes! (I am certainly not aware of my disagreement.)
But last year’s Thanksgiving was very different. All three of his sons spent the holidays with him, and he was placed in hospice care at his apartment in Florida. He didn’t want his guests to see him like that, but since I live four hours away, I couldn’t resist. We sobbed and held each other for a while. I told him to say hello to Grandma on my behalf and that I would see him in heaven.
I owe a lot to my grandfather because he greatly influenced my life. My father mostly imparted wisdom to me through his example rather than his words. According to Marcello, he lived so long that his moral qualities could influence future generations.
The following is a poor summary of the lessons the grandfather taught his granddaughter:
Avoid complaints.
Rather than a whiner, Grandpa was a worker. Instead of talking about things non-stop, he tried to find a solution if he didn’t like something or a situation. But I’m not saying he didn’t speak!
He didn’t use his words to whine, but he could fend off the best of them. It’s so nice to be around someone who doesn’t always say bad things.
Avoid criticism.
Poppa didn’t spend time debating the ideal way people should live. Although he held his own beliefs and values, I didn’t often hear him criticize the decisions of others. It wasn’t that he didn’t care; rather, it was that he recognized that everyone is treated differently in life and that we are all free to choose our own path and even make mistakes.
People confide in you when you have this attitude because they don’t think you’re going to judge them or say things behind their backs. When they are with you, they become the best version of themselves and are most likely to crave your approval!
Stay upright and in control.
He led a life of discipline and self-control. To a younger person, this may seem like a boring quality, but as I get older, I find it more admirable and attractive. We fight mightily to maintain control over many aspects of our lives, including alcohol, food, work, television, s*x, phones, shopping, and other addictions.
As far as I know, my grandfather was their master rather than being a slave to these things.
My car was a mess of food, clothes, and trash when I was a teenager. Grandpa said very little, but he told me to be careful what I had. I got his help cleaning from the inside out. After that unforgettable experience, I never had a dirty car again – that is until I had children.
However, it also extends to other areas. Taking good care of your possessions – home, electronics, tools, appliances, furniture, and equipment – ​​not only extends their life and reduces costs, but also shows that you value them.
Accept the things you have.
Mom didn’t care about luxury or owning the latest and greatest. He owned a small condo in Florida and a small cabin on an Indiana lake. While he was happy with the situation as it was, I’m sure he could upgrade if he wanted to. He was content with the things he had and wasn’t always looking for more.
He never upgraded and his 1989 boat was still functional.
He spent decades owning cars. He wasn’t cheap. When the time comes, they will buy a new car or equipment, but only then.
We discussed debt at length. He firmly believed that during his life he would pay for everything in cash and avoid debt. He was really proud of me when I paid off my first car as I recall. He was always financially secure because he felt it was best to live within your means.
Don’s passing is not an end, but a transition, marking the profound impact he made on my life and the lives of many. His passing leaves an indelible void, yet one that is overshadowed by the legacy of lessons he imparted. His life was a symphony of tenacity, love, and integrity, a melody that still rings in every corner of my existence.
His legacy is not just the cherished memories or sage advice he shared; it is the embodiment of these principles in my daily activities. His footsteps linger on the paths I choose, his wisdom is reflected in the choices I make, and his love shapes the empathy I extend. He wasn’t just a grandfather; he was the guiding light, the compass that steered my moral compass across the vast sea of ​​life.
As I navigate the complexities of life, his teachings stand as unshakable pillars that solidify my beliefs and decisions. His humor, warmth, and unwavering support remain embedded in the tapestry of my memories, guiding me through adversity and celebrating triumphs. His legacy lives on not only in memories but also in instilled values, protected virtues, and instilled kindness.
Don’s passing marks a transition to spreading his legacy and becoming the embodiment of the virtues he so elegantly exemplified. In essence, he lives on not only in the memory of who he was but in the reflection of the person he inspired me to become. His death is a testament to the immense impact that a single life can have—a legacy that is not limited by time but is woven into the fabric of eternity.