Visiting my grandparents had a very comfortable routine. We would arrive to the usual hugs and kisses and then settle down on the living room carpet to listen to the usual discussion of how the drive was, what was going on in town etc.. It was routine predictable and comforting. Eventually my fathers siblings would drift in. The arrival of uncle Dan would usually mean the party was going to get started, as he started telling stories of his beloved relatives, what was happening with the local sports teams and of course how the fishing was. The stories of our family often humorous would be accompanied by his infectious laugh. He was for me the family historian. That tradition would continue well into my adulthood as we gathered at the fishing cabin. His love of his family was obvious to anyone and the joy he got remembering stories of loved ones now past was especially wonderful. I learned about our wonderful crazy family and it certainly was instructive to me to realize where I came from and where I could go if I wished. He was a valuable part of my life, I will miss his laughter, stories and his love. Rest in peace Uncle Dan, say hi to the family for me.
