I don't remember when John Paul II became Pope - I was too little, and also my parents weren't Catholic. I can't imagine what it'll feel like for the days or weeks that we have no Pope. And if we're on the road during that time...well, it's just an odd feeling.
I didn't realize your parents were converts. My Daddy didn't join the Church until about the time I was born. I think he was confirmed the year my oldest sister was. Mama was a cradle Catholic.