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Eulogy for Grandfather: 2 short examples 

Contributed by: Christian, Janesville Wisconsin, USA | Matt, London, England

Eulogy for my grandfather - A life full of pride, joy and happiness 

Christian was seventeen when he wrote this deeply personal eulogy for his grandfather. The stories he shares are filled with love, admiration and gratitude for the time they spent together.

As you read his words try to imagine you're listening to Christian saying them aloud.

For those of you who don’t know me, I am Christian, and Richard was my grandpa.

He lived a life that was full of pride, joy, and happiness. He took pride in his career as a letter carrier for 39 years serving the United States Postal Service. It all started in 1961 when he bravely entered the US Army. While in the Army he met my Grandma, Barb, through being pen pals while he was stationed in Italy. He often spoke favorably about his time spent there.

After returning from Italy, he married my Grandma on September 11, 1965. One year later they were blessed with a baby daughter, Joanne. After many difficulties Joanne passed gracefully on January 30th, 1970. On September 14th, 1967 they gave birth to a son, Tim. A few years after Tim was born, Annette was born on January 15th, 1970. A year later, Anne was born on June 7th, 1971. Lastly, on May 26th, 1974 their youngest daughter, Michelle, was born. His 4 grown children are living proof of his willingness to put others before himself.

My grandpa’s generosity, work ethic, humility and selflessness are all qualities that I admire him for, and qualities I myself aspire to.

There are many memories Grandpa and I have together. One of my favorite memories was after his retirement in 2003 when he began his sharpening business. I was fortunate to spend lots of time with Grandpa while he went to flea markets and farmers markets doing his sharpening. I enjoyed as he called it “spending the profits” at the various vendors.

Another memory was the periodic visits to Mocha Moment, where in the winter we’d have a cup of hot apple cider, and in the summer, we’d have strawberry banana smoothies. These are memories I will always cherish and hold close.

Anyone who knew my grandpa knows of his generosity, work ethic, humility and selflessness. He demonstrated these traits again and again through both his career with the United States Postal Service, and his part time turned full time job at Ace Hardware.

Whatever Grandpa was involved in, he made sure that it was done the right way. He never cut corners, and always made sure others were happy. He continued this even as he lay in bed in ICU. He made sure that I went and bought cookies from Rollin’ Pin Bakery for all of the nurses and doctors.

In middle school when I just had to be at school early every day and didn’t want to wait for my siblings; grandpa made the drive over to our house to come pick me up and take me. I never once heard him complain. He never wanted to disappoint anyone or let them down. There wasn’t ever a time anyone, including me, ever had to hear the word no to anything we asked of him. He would find a way to make it work or happen.

The support I have received from Grandpa throughout my 17 years has been truly amazing. I can’t recall a function, or sporting event of mine in which he wasn’t there. He was always there to support and cheer me on.

One of the most recent was the grand opening for the school credit union which I have worked on all summer. Grandpa saw all of the work and dedication that I and all the others involved had put into this. Sure enough, on the night of the grand opening, Grandpa was there to support me. I didn’t even have to ask him to be there, he just knew it was something that was important to me and he was sure to be there.

In conclusion, Grandpa will be missed dearly. I hope to someday become half the man he was. People like my Grandpa are one in a million. Anyone who was around Grandpa knew of his generosity, work ethic, humility, and selflessness.

Albert Einstein once said, “Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger generation. For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life.”

So let us celebrate Grandpa’s life and continue his legacy. Thank you, Grandpa. I love you and will miss you.

Grandad's tribute: a testament to the power of love

Matt's tribute for his grandad is brief, personal and eloquent. The deep respect and love he has for him shines through in the words he uses. It's a strong and beautiful piece.  

A legend. You were a humble man full of love, strength and encouragement to us. In life and now death you wouldn't want us to focus on the sadness and sorrow but to continue to love and support each other no matter the situation.  

Your warm smile taught us that love reigns supreme. This is what those who were fortunate enough to know you will remember you by.

I also remember the jokes you always used to tell when I was by your side; your invaluable wisdom and the advice you shared with me; our passion for keeping fit and discussing plans for the future. Being by your side was truly a tremendous time of blessing, one which cannot be forgotten.

I remember when I was a young boy and first met you. You hugged me so tight to you. I felt ever so secure in your arms.

I looked forward to seeing you at every opportunity that came. Every year that I would visit Ghana you were the first on my mind to see. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be on this occasion when I came down.  My heart was shredded.  

And I never forgot to bring your favourite commodity: smoked gammon which made you smile.

You always asked after me, Mary and Aunt Ellen and encouraged us to continue to unite and love each other. You were the father of all fathers. A shining example to all.