05/26/2023
Earlier this month my Grandpa Smith passed away. I'm so thankful I had him as my wonderful grandpa for so many years. I'm glad he's no longer in pain and is reunited with the love of his life, my Grandma Fely, who passed away a year and a half ago. They met when grandpa was stationed in the Philippines during the Korean War, and this year would have been their 69th wedding anniversary. Their deep love for each other and fun, adventure-filled life are an inspiration. I loved listening to grandpa talk about their travel adventures along with slide shows of his beautiful photos. He and I shared a love of photography and painting, and he even let me help with the big mural he painted in their home in San Jose.
Grandpa also taught me the joys of learning all about our world and took me to art, history, and science museums, musicals, national parks, and camping. Our family called him the "walking encyclopedia" because of his amazing ability to remember so many scientific facts, as well as family, US, and world history. He also knew tons of jokes and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was brilliant and wise, but he could also be goofy and a big kid, and I admire that.
Grandpa was a foodie long before that was a thing. He taught me to appreciate trying new foods and identify the flavors and aromas in good wine. My grandparents believed in the importance of family and friends, and they showed love by bringing people together for good food, wine/drinks, and fun. Grandpa loved taking everyone wine tasting and sight-seeing along the Mendocino coast when he retired. He loved nature and wildlife, something we share. When I lived with them in Boonville, we would explore the woods, identifying plants and animals. After dinner, we loved sitting around the fireplace and waiting for the critters to visit on the back deck. Grandpa patiently earned the trust of the racoons so they would take a cookie from his hand. He loved feeding the wild turkeys and a peacock named Peter who adopted them too.
I learned so much from you grandpa. Thank you for so many wonderful memories and for all your love and support throughout my life. I will always love and miss you. Hug grandma for me!π