December 23, 2004

Remembering Greg

Christmas 2004

From Dad

We can all agree that Greg was a wonderful son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend.  Someone who was very loving and unselfish – always concerned about the welfare of family and friends.

This is an especially hard time because the holidays are a time he enjoyed so much.  Nothing was as important as spending time with family, and his kind, generous, and fun-loving nature would always make the time together special.  All night poker games, movies, board games, or crossword puzzles – it didn’t matter what it was – he was always game.

One thing the last 8 months has taught us is the importance of love and family.  It is something that Greg always understood.  We have pulled together as a family during this time.  We are leaning on each other to get through each day.  As difficult as things are, we are determined to continue on and make the best of it.  With three wonderful sons and so many wonderful memories, we can’t let down now.  Greg would have expected no less from us, and I don’t intend to let him down.   

Let’s not be reluctant to talk about Greg.  Please share your stories.  Write them down and send them to us, if you prefer.  I always welcome any stories or memories of Greg that are shared with us.  His friend Jersey from the Marching Illini told us a story about how a group of band members, including Greg, went to the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.  She described how they laughed  as they scrunched into the pods that go to the top, and how ridiculous it seemed.  We also went on that ride, and I can picture him having a great time.  Those memories are very precious to us.

Finally, Greg made good use of the 23 years he had.  Although, tragically, his life was too short – it was a life well lived.  We miss him terribly.  I believe our challenge is to continue on as he would hope and expect.  Let’s try to enjoy the holidays like he did and would have done and make the most of the family time together as he did and would have done. 

God bless Greg and keep him in a special place.  He will always have a special place in our hearts.