Unfortunately, my last visit with Pop-pop was a sad one. Although there had been a steady decline of dementia and general old age for about a year, since falling last week he had really moved closer to the end. At Easter when I saw him, he wasn't totally aware of his surroundings and as had become normal, he often fell asleep in mid conversation but there were highlights. He proudly showed off the picture of his destroyer from WWII and even recognized some people in old photos we showed him. He especially was happy to see his grandfather. But then on what would end up being his last day, it was so sad to see someone who was always so capable and knowledgeable of many things become essentially unresponsive and struggling to just live. It was a shame to walk from the room thinking that his end could not come soon enough so that he was no longer suffering, even if in his own mind. My many fond memories of him will certainly live on. Family trips, Ponzios, hitting wiffel golf balls in the backyard, learning to play pool in his basement, Long beach Island, Good Friday breakfast, trips to the Campbell Soup store and of course the trains both at his house and going to model train shows. I even remember him taking me on the speedline to Philly to buy the fuel packs needed for my model rockets because they were illegal to sell in NJ. There are so many others. I left his room that day just hoping he knew he could let go with the love of a grateful family. Fortunately he did just that. He filled many roles and now I just hope all those proud and fond memories come rushing back to him and he sees the legacy he left behind. He can certainly Rest in Peace.
