RIP Grandfather

Martin Robert Mikolajczak, my grandfather, passed away on December 6, 2007. He had just turned 85 on Monday, December 3. He was my mother's father. He was really the only grandfather that I can remember, my father's dad passed away when I younger. Grandpa was not in my life my whole entire life; he had lost contact with my mother when she was very young. When I was 12, or so, we were doing a family tree and my mother told me who my grandfather was and with a last name of Mikolajczak, I knew he was somebody that I wanted to know. I convinced my mother that we should locate him. Apparently, she kept a few tabs on him and knew that he lived in Denver, Colorado. We called 411 and there was indeed an M R Mikolajczak listed. We called the number and chatted with his then wife, Joan, and later had the opportunity to visit with him. It had turned out that he was moving just 2 hours south of where we were living. We had numerous visits with him and his new family during the next years. I had 3 new uncles and a new aunt - so much fun! Since we moved to California in 2001, my visits with my grandfather came more and more limited, in fact, visits with any family has been less than ideal. I always think of him and when a certain event happens in my life, he was always on my mind and in my thoughts.

I have many, many memories of him but I am most thankful for him just being in my life. I am so very, very thankful that my children really got to know their great-grandfather and I am thankful for all of their memories. I know when I see him again, he will be the first in line with those big open arms. I know his mustache will tickle my neck. I know that he will be sucking in air through his teeth and that his fingers will be laced together politely in front of his belly! I know that he will have even more stories to tell me (some of which I might even believe!) and I know that he will be the first to show me around.

I miss him already. I love him with all my heart. Catch you on the flip side Grandpa!