Thankfully, I've got memories aplenty with that gorgeous beast of a man. He and I had a bond like no other and he was so much more to me than just my grandpa. He was my coach, best mate, mentor hooligan, escort to all Father-Daughter dances and of course the hand that gave me away.

I can recall spending hours playing catch with him in front of the house. Heading to bowling alleys, arcades, water parks, miniature golf courses and every Foot Locker in our area. Eating pizza and ice cream until we approached illness and being spoiled silly (I of course am not at all rotten) as every time I wanted something his reply was always, "Put it on the counter"...and by that he meant the checkout counter.

We watched TV together cuddled in his large recliner, whispering rude and inappropriate comments to each other about those around us which left us both snorting with glee while those "other" eyes rolled. We sang songs at the top of our lungs driving to and from my team practices or on one of our regular adventures. Poppa and Em, Em and Pop; Besties for Life.