This summer Troy's sweet grandpa passed away. Our hearts are broken at the loss of Papa. We will miss his mischevious, twinkling blue eyes which literally sparkled when he smiled. I don't think I ever spoke to him, asking him "how are you Papa" without his reply of "never had it so good!" He truly loved life, he loved everyone around him and we all felt it.
I remember when I met him for the first time. Troy and I had been married for about 3 months and we had gone to California for a wedding. I hadn't met most of his family. I felt like I was about to be put through the most intense interregation that I could possibly experience. We were to meet at a restaurant on the beach, just down from their home. We walked toward the table, I was so nervous. Papa looked at me, smiled, took my hands in his and said "hello sweetheart!" In all the years I spent with this wonderful man, this is the greeting I always received.
He loved his family, and his acquired family. He especially loved his sweetheart, friend and forever companion, Margaret (Sugarbabe) whom he fondly referred to as "Frenchy." She was always by his side caring for him, never a complaint, always with love. Their love was an inspiration to all who knew them.
We all felt his genuine warmth and caring. Chelsey and Sydney married into this family and he always made them feel as if they were his real grandchildren, which was evident to me when they heard of his passing they were beside themselves with grief. When Bella and Max were born, he was on the phone constantly asking how the babies were. He was so happy to be around them when we went to visit. This was a man who touched so many! Papa, we love you and miss you. We know you are "our angel," watching over us and what a wonderful feeling that is! Till we see you again, Papa!
