Pop

It has been about a month since I last posted here. My dad was diagnosed in 1998 with Alzheimers and has been fading away from us bit by bit as this terrible disease slowly stole him from us. But, early in June he had a massive stroke and the time has been spent being with family and keeping him as comfortable as possible while awaiting his passing. During that time, Mom and I contacted far-away friends and family and we all did lots of reminiscing.

During his career as a hydraulic engineer, among other things, he designed and saw the creation of a system that would supply water to the people of the City of New York for years to come. During his 54 year marriage to Mom, he helped raise four children (trust me, not an easy task!), he held eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. He was always there for us helping us overcome the trials and tribulations of life and encouraged us to be strong and to enjoy life. After retiring he and Mom travelled the world... visiting and exploring all seven continents! He loved to work in the garden and with Mom's help they supplied the local soup kitchen with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. He was famous for his "dark alley facts" and loved to joke and dance and have a good time. He served in the Korean War. He went to church on Sundays and lived by the Golden Rule.

On June 18th, in a little church cemetary in Gettysburg, we laid Dad to rest. Afterwards we gathered at a nearby diner to celebrate Pop's life. Mom, my siblings and I .... all together for the first time in years. Along with cousins, aunts, and good friends we toasted Pop farewell.