Dear Dad,

We've had our ups, we've had our downs and even our upside downs.  Through it all I have grown and learned so much from you.  There are things only a few of us would understand.  Boxing.....tighty whities.....I never told anyone this but the night I lost my first tooth at six years old I was secretly up when you placed the necklace under my pillow so I always knew you were the "Tooth Fairy".  I also woke up when I was sleep walking and trying to get out the door.  You came and picked me up and put me back to bed.  You were the best pizza maker.   I loved taking walks with Mommy, John and Pattie to the Clam Bar and getting pizza and real Italian Lemon Ices when you worked there.  I remember going to the Nelly Bly and the barbeques on the roof.  My favorite ice cream was Butter Pecan just like you and you always had it when I came to visit.  You made me go on two blind dates.  I didn't like them but you tried.  You let Harry pull my hair all the way to Uncle Petey and Aunt Ginny's house in Maryland.  You and Fran thought it was very funny.  I didn't.  Because of you (and Mommy and Fran) I have 6 sisters and brothers.  Wow!  Thank you for the lessons.  Thank you for allowing us our last conversations that will be what is kept in my mind forever.  I now have so many loved ones watching over me in heaven.  I'm in good hands.  Love you Dad.