My grandfather would have turned 98 years old today. He passed away in 1991 when I was a senior in high school. I loved him dearly and I love him still. I miss him and all he was to me.
My grandfather was a quiet man. He had a quiet and gentle nature. He was kind and supportive and he had abundant love for his wife, children, grand children and great grand children.
My grandfather, as I knew him, was a farmer. He had worked in a sheet metal factory and also as a coal miner before that. My favorite childhood memories are spending time with him, “helping” him tend his animals. He was also a very talented black smith and cobbler and all around craftsman. I thought that there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t do or fix.
I can’t remember ever seeing my grandfather angry. He always had a good sense of humor and loved to tease and joke. He and my grandmother had a very strong relationship and set good examples for a good marriage for everyone that knew them.
He even had a special way with his animals. He had a dog named Pepper that was a part Boston Terrier and part Chihuahua. He would run his hand down Pepper’s back and say “Oh Pepper’s freezing.” At which time Pepper would start shivering all over like he really was freezing. It was the funniest trick!
He had a mule that he called “Old Red” that he used to plow his garden. But he was as much a pet as he was a work mule. Old Red lived to be nearly 40 years old. My uncle took him after my grandfather died and he lived out his life in a leisurely fashion.
Memories can be such a blessing and comfort and today it has been a blessing and comfort to me to share these memories of my wonderful grandfather with you!