As a tribute to Jack Flowers, the best father-in-law a daughter-in-law could have, I can honestly state that Jack rates #1 among the finest men I have ever known. He profoundly impacted my life and the lives of my daughters, Kim and Michelle. I have called him Grandpa since my girls were born and somewhere in time he became that Grandpa more than an xfather-in-law. I heard once that in-law is an outdated term. I am so glad to know that it is now allowable to say Father-In-Love rather than father-in-law. He is, and will always be, a Father-in-Love to me. He taught me unconditional love and infinite patience; two of the many magnificent traits that he exemplified. It is with 100% certainty that I will never forget him and that I will keep his memory alive in the eyes of my grandchildren. They could have had none finer as their heritage.
Jake, my oldest grandson remembered Grandpa Flowers' fish tank. My cousin Peter still has the pot belly stove Grandpa gave him on one of our trips to the UP. My brother, Joey, and my cousin, Donnie, can't hear his name without smiling and remembering all of the wonderful memories we have of Valley Street; all because of Jack Flowers.
Another thing I learned from Grandpa was that no matter what -- family is all that counts. He cared more deeply than any father I have ever known. His dearest possession, although he was passionate about life, the childhood songs he sang to the end, his broasted chicken and garden-fresh tomatoes, dancing at wedding receptions, and so many more wonderful memories; nothing could hold a candle to his dedication to his family.
The perfect example of how allowing he was, and that everything would be all right, was when Marv and I went to the carnival in his beautiful red and white '59 Ford Fairlane and came home with "Earth Angel" stenciled on both sides. Jack didn't blink an eye and just said, "Marve, how could you do that?"
I dedicate the song, "What a Wonderful World", by Louis Armstrong, to my Hero, Jack Flowers. He was the most wonderful in my world.
Your rewards will begin to pour in now, Dearest Grandpa, for all the kindnesses you have extended not only to family but to anyone who needed a helping hand. It is with the deepest respect and admiration that I say what an honor it is to have had you in my life all of these years. I miss you so.
Your #1 Baby Doll, Sharon##imported-begin##Sharon "Flowers" LaPorte##imported-end##