As I sat down to put together this speech I found myself running through every experience, every happy thought of grandfather. I said to myself, how am I going to sum up such a great man in such a few words. Though I can try I know I will not be able to do so. So, I won’t try. Rather, I’d like to speak to who he was, and just as important, who he was not. My grandfather was kind. He was not judgmental. He donated himself, his time, his money, his being, to his family, friends, and community. My grandfather had a great sense of humor. He found no humor in the faults and hardships of others. If he could do so he would give you the shirt off his back, a warm meal, and a shoulder to rest your head. My grandfather was humble. He was not arrogant. He never made himself out to be greater than he was. Showed humility when it was right for him to do so; and unlike the many who break others down to build themselves up, my grandfather built others up and rose with them. My grandfather was a father. He was not absent. Looking out at everyone I see his children, his grandchildren, friends, all honorable people each of which carries on a piece of my grandfather with them. He loved his family, as we, all loved him. We may be saying goodbye to his body on this day but let us not forget who my grandfather was and was not. His humor and kindness shaped his community and his children making the world just a little bit brighter. Today I do not say goodbye to my grandfather but rather say thank you for all you’ve left behind in this world. Today I say you deserve your rest grandfather, and I’ll see you again when God sees it right for me to do so.