Grandpa

 

Yesterday was Grandpa’s wake.  

 

 

 

  

                

Words of Wisdom in Grandpa’s handwriting that someone found while going through his things and getting the displays ready.

“I would like to say that I was born about as poor as anybody could be.  Losing mother and father at an early age, but God was good to me and had plans for me. 

I worked hard and accumulated some wealth which I like to share with the hungry and poor.

As you grow older, you begin to think about the hereafter more and know that you have to leave everything behind, so make the best of everything while you are able,

With all my love, Joseph E. Skala” .

Grandpa was a smart man.

 

Today was the funeral out at Litomysl.  Fr. Cronin’s message was right on and left us with a great message – figuring out what is important.  Grandpa sure knew. 

The cemetery was just down the road and the family decided to walk there.  It was quite a site.

  

 

    

 

   

  

Love you Grandpa.  Rest in peace up there and keep that killer smile!

 

My Aunt and Uncle had the yearly family Fourth of July fish fry planned for this afternoon and they decided to stick with it.  It was a great way to be together and celebrate Grandpa.  I am sure Grandma and him were smiling down at those of us that could be together celebrating and being together.

 

 

      

To top off the day there was a Smear tournament in honor of Grandpa.  A day spent doing 3 things he loved, fishing (or eating the fish I guess), being with family, and playing cards.

Retirement celebration

Dad has been telling us for long time that he DOES NOT want a big celebration for his retirement.  He just doesn’t like a big deal made of things.  The boys and I still joke about the time that we were out for dinner for his birthday and he got word that we told the waitress about it.  He left our table after dinner and went out to the car before the waitress could come bring dessert and sing! ;)  We now know better.  We really wanted to do something for his retirement.  That’s a huge deal.  However, we followed his wishes and planned a nice dinner with just us kids and grandkids at the Timberlodge.  Last minute mom decided to invite a few friends and family.  It was hard for her to decide with such a big family and friends, but knew dad wouldn’t want something huge and it was last minute.  Dad wasn’t too happy with her when he found out at first , but got over it quickly as he enjoyed the celebration.  Congratulations dad!  Let us celebrate you once in awhile.

 

 

 

 

 

They have both  made it public now, so I can share that we are all so excited to have 2 sets of twins in the family!  Yes- you read it right.  Both Mattey and Natey’s wives are pregnant with twins.  Super fun!   I love the picture below of Wendell and Connor talking.  Wendell was a great sport with Connor sharing all of his jokes.  ;)