Grandpa H. 1918-2009

For those who don’t know, I grew up on Oahu in the State of Hawaii.  During my college years I remember visiting home one summer with a friend.  We went to go visit my grandpa one day.  He was out in his yard hard at work–wearing his coveralls of course.  He greeted my friend warmly and asked her if she had ever been to Hawaii before.  She said no, it was her first time.  He then lifted his arms and motioned to the beautiful green mountains so prevalent in the Manoa valley and enthusiastically said, “isn’t this paradise?”

Grandpa LOVED Hawaii.  Almost as much as he loved ice cream.  (You thought I was going to say my Grandma didn’t you?)  He loved faking us out and pretending he didn’t have the tickets to whatever show we were going to.  He loved his watch Mei Ling (yes, that is the name he gave the watch) which faithfully spoke the time to him for many, many years.  He loved dinners out–especially those that had salad and dessert included in the price–Grandpa loved a good deal.  Grandpa loved his faith and lived it with conviction–leading his life the way he professed to believe.  He loved his name, my name, and hoped all who bore it would always honor it.  He loved his children and grandchildren of which I am very proud to be one.  And of course, Grandpa loved, loved his classy wife, my Grandma.

Last night Grandpa passed away.  I knew it was coming, it was his time and I am happy for him, just feeling a little sad for me.  I wanted him to meet my future husband, to have my children know the man who was so influential in my life.  As I get older, the more I understand what he and my Grandma gave me and I am forever grateful for them both.

Dad, Me, and Grandpa in Hawaii last summer

I miss you already Grandpa.  Give my love to Grandma and Aunt Patty.  Paradise just won’t be the same without you.