Final Goodbye To My Other Love
Here we go again... I didn't think we would be in this place again, so close to grandma's goodbye. I can't seem to figure out what hurts more, losing you and not being able to say goodbye in person, or constantly imagining you living in pain, without grandma by your side.
So this will be my goodbye letter to you, grandpa. You were the greatest grandpa there was. I don't even know where to start from. One thing I can say right away is, I'm thankful to God for giving me the privilege of being your grandchild, and for getting to spend the time I got to share with you.
I'm going to miss you so much, and I know so many others will too, because touched so many hearts. Both within the family, outside, and others that became family. You were a fighter at everything and a go getter. I guess I finally get why boxing was your favorite sport. You were literally your very own Mike Tyson, and we loved you for it. Sports were important to you, and you sure did pass that on to your kids. I know that's something that will remind them of you. From how you would watch any game by the edge of your seat, to how you took them to every rugby or soccer game as kids. Family was always everything to you. I remember how you always told me how being the first born meant I was the lion of the family. And how by being the lion, you made sure the family was held together and safe, to be the person to fight whatever battle was thrown. You would stand and hold my hand and say nothing can pull the lion down, and if I ever did that's where the second born would come in and fight with you. That always made me smile and laugh because you always knew how to bring a story to life. Through that, I learned the importance of family at an early age. So thank you for that.
Grandpa William was always dressed to perfection. He sure made sure he made a statement by how every detail was always so important. And he sure did make sure we all got to know how that was always a part of him, including his love for his hair. Your etiquette was always above and beyond, and that's something I loved you for. Just like grandma, you cared and loved so much. You always lent a helping hand without expecting anything in return. You welcomed many to your home and made sure they felt welcomed.
Your grandkids were your pride and joy. Just like your children, you loved each and everyone of them. You always wanted to make sure they were happy, safe, making the right choices, and laughing whenever you were around them. For this I thank you and miss you more than ever. I mean your laugh was everything, oh my goodness. And whenever grandma joined in, just made the moment even more special. It's one thing that's still stuck with me, and I'm sure with many others.
I know this is slowly turning into a novel, so before it does, I want to say thank you grandpa, for all the laughs, the stories, the family tree knowledge, for helping me with my homework as a kid, teaching me all the songs. For making me dance with you and teaching me all the cool old dance moves, for educating me on a lot of things, for praying for me, and most importantly for always reminding us the importance of seeking God first.
You were wise, had so much knowledge, God fearing, Hardworking, never gave up, always laughed and carried joy within, and you always educated. One of the things that stuck with me, that you always reminded me was how reading makes you a whole man. Saying goodbye is never easy and something that no one can ever get used to. But here we are, with heavy hearts, trying to find the best way to say it. All we can say is we love you, we'll miss you, and may you be welcomed into heaven with open arms filled with love. As we lay down these roses, may God give us the strength as we grieve, may He comfort us, and unite you with your love.
Rest in peace grandpa, we love you.
