Dad, thank you for all the life lessons you taught me. You taught me how to be strong and how to work hard. You also taught me the importance of family and tradition. I will never forget you singing "Climb Every Mountain" or seeing a tear in your eye when you saw or heard something that touched your heart. You are the strongest man I have ever known, with the biggest heart! I know why your co-workers always called you "the gentle giant." You were always an example to me in everything you did and you never missed an opportunity to have a teaching moment. I always knew even as a child that my time with you would be short but I am so blessed to have you as my Dad for the time that I did have.
Irwin, you came into our lives at a very difficult time. You had some very big shoes to fill, but instead of taking my fathers place, you created your own in my heart. You made my Mom so happy and were such a wonderful father to my younger brothers and sisters. You had such a big heart and were great at giving hugs. You were such a wonderful Grandpa to Chelsey and Sydney and they were heart broken when you were no longer there. Thank you for always supporting me in everything I ever did, you were always so proud of me and I knew it. You always had so much faith in me! Thank you for everything!
I miss you both with all of my heart and there isn't one day that I don't think about you. I was so blessed to have you both in my life and I appreciate all the life lessons you both taught me. I love you Dad and Irwin! On your birthdays I promise I will celebrate your life!