Farewell to my Grandpa!

Hello Everyone!  Some of you may have saw the picture I posted last night about my Grandpa passing away early Sunday morning.  I've posted it below.  It is an older picture of us two, but one of my favorites.  He was a wonderful man.  I still remember being very little and he would pop out his dentures.  I was beyond confused and it freaked me out, but now I look back and laugh at his silliness. 

I know my Dad is taking it hard losing his father.  We have been very fortunate in my family to not have very much death, and this is the first grandparent on my side to pass.  Unfortunately, my Grandma (his wife, my Dad's mom), is very sick too.  I try to see the beauty in that they will meet and be together again very soon.  It's never easy to lose a loved one, but I know that he is in a better place and looking upon us from above.

I was able to see him a week prior to his passing.  My Dad had warned me that he probably wouldn't recognize me.  As soon as I walked in, his face lit up.  I, on the other hand, started bawling.  I asked him how he was feeling, although it was apparent, and he said, "To tell you the truth, absolute horse shit."  Even in pain and suffering, he could still make me laugh.  He was in and out of it because of the morphine, but he actually said my name at one point, telling me how happy he was to see me.  I will always cherish those last moments with him.

At one point, he did ask Mr. CC if he smoked.  When he said no, my Grandpa said, "Oh, that's a shame."  At the time, we weren't sure what he meant.  Later, I was talking to my Mom and she said he was probably looking for a cigarette!  That little stinker!  He unfortunately smoked almost his whole life.  We're lucky to not have lost him sooner.  

The incredible support from everyone brings me to tears.  I cannot express how much your kindness means to me.  I'm constantly amazed to be apart of such a caring group and cherish all your condolences, thoughts, and prayers.  Thank you.  Also, thank you for letting me share this with you.  Tomorrow we will remember him and Thursday we will say goodbye.