Dear Larry,

You passed away a few weeks before I had the opportunity to meet you. You are the grandfather of my boyfriend, the man who I cherish so much. I was able to meet the rest of your loving family at your funeral. They were so strong and so welcoming towards me. I first met my boyfriend’s parents, your daughter Deb and her husband, at your house a few days after you had passed away. Your house was a beautiful reflection of the caring and hardworking person you were. Your hundreds of tools and parts in the basement were being sorted through and I realized then, and afterwards, what a giving and dedicated person you were. I’m sorry I never got a chance to meet you, but I would like you to know that I think the family that you and your wife have built is a beautiful one and I am so blessed to now be part of it.

Katie, age 22