My deepest sympathy on your loss. My grandpa was my hero, too.
In the midst of the Great Depression he lost his wife during childbirth. He went on and raised six kids, working 12 hours a day, 7 days a week and then doing carpentry work on the side in his 'free' time.
He never wore a military uniform, but he was one heck of a leader.
He taught me the beauty and serenity of the simple things in life. He was one with nature and could grow ANYTHING.
When I was a kid in the early 60's, I heard the word 'abortion' on TV and I asked him what that meant. He simply said, "It's when a mother KILLS her baby while it is still in her womb. It is a sin. It is ABSOLUTELY WRONG!". That really struck me hard that these women would even think about killing their own child, and then talk about it being their RIGHT. I think it hurt him so deeply, as he lost his wife during the childbirth of his last child.
His words were never 'flaky'. He spoke the truth from his heart.
I named the first of my twin sons after him.
I miss him, but I visit with him everyday in my heart.
I hope you keep you granfather alive in your heart everyday.
With my deepest condolences,
Norb
It seems that difficult times made for straight talkers. Thanks for sharing the story of your grandfather.