Dear Grandpa

It’s painful thinking about you. I am still in shock and every time I am at grandma’s house, I can still hear your slippers dragging on the tile floor of the living room. You left suddenly; without warning. It wasn’t your time to go.

I remember your smile, your kisses hello and goodbye, your laugh, your temper and most of all, the unconditional love that you showered upon us all. How you loved your family so much; it cannot be explained in words. You did more than say you loved us; you showed it in ways that will forever be cherished.

I know that your daily enjoyment was waking up and taking Belle to the bus stop before school and then picking her up at the bus stop after school. You lived for that and looked forward to it every school day.

I remember all the Christmas dinners especially the ones where you insisted on making Belle and I lobster because we didn’t want the prime rib. I remember how you loved making drinks for everyone. I’ll never forget when a couple of weeks ago, I came to pick up Belle after work and you and grandma were on the couch looking like you were about to pass out. Come to find out, you decided to make yourselves a couple of mid-day margaritas. You made the best margaritas and Bloody Marys. Damn they were good.

I remember how you would call me up and ask if I wanted to go to Chop Suey with you and grandma. You loved your Chinese food. You couldn’t get enough of it.

I remember all the trips to Hawaii and when you taught me how to catch sand crabs.

I remember how I could make you so darn mad at me that you’d be fuming. But you always forgave me and I knew when I was forgiven when you would make me my favorite dinner or ask if I wanted to go out for sushi.

I remember when you and grandma moved away a few years ago and I had to follow you because I couldn’t live without you guys. I’m glad I did follow you.

I remember when in 1998, you went for your second bypass surgery, was infected with a staff infection and we were told that you had a ten percent chance of living. You fought that battle and won and you gave us 8 more wonderful years.

I can’t begin to tell you how much I miss you and there is not a day that will go by that I won’t think about you. I love you, Tutu Kane. Your work here is done. May you rest in peace.

“A hui hou kahou” Until we meet again….

Richard William “Longy” Gernler

May 3, 1928 – October 10, 2005

Aloha