
Even still, it is hard not to be sad and miss him. I had planned on going to visit him in Illinois after the first of the year. I wanted to spend some time with him before he passed. But unfortunately, he didn't last that long. I am happy and sad about that at the same time. Happy because I would have hated for him to have to endure life the way he was and in that kind of pain for even another day, let alone several weeks....just so I could selfishly see him one last time. But, of course, I'm sad that I didn't get that chance to see him again before he left us..to give him that last hug and last kiss goodbye.
He loved his wife, children, many grandchildren, and even more great grandchildren very much. He was very proud of his ever growing family and was interested in every single one of us. He will be greatly missed.
I love you, Grandpa. This is not 'goodbye', but 'see you later'. I look forward to giving you that hug and kiss 'hello' when I see you again!