NormanPride
1/13/2008, 05:55 PM
Today I celebrate the life of the only grandfather I ever knew. James L was a great man, from his humble beginnings in small-town Oklahoma to his curtain-call in the great state's capitol. In between he was a rascal, a soldier, a father, a grandfather, a salesman, a ruf/nek, a prankster, and a grouch (though only when the Sooners lost). ;) He was a great fan of our team and a season ticket holder for many years, like his father before him. He finally stopped renewing his tickets when his knees couldn't take him to the upper deck anymore (I think him tripping over the same woman three weeks in a row had something to do with it!)
His service in Northern Africa and Italy during World War II is, to this day, one of the things I am most proud of about my family. The strength he showed there and the sacrifices he made during his time overseas helped make this country what it is today. I have his key from the hotel he stayed in in Rome and it is, without question, my most treasured possession. I also have his ruf/nek paddle from his days at OU. I bet he was in one of the first few classes of that unique group. He never would tell me all the stuff they did... I wonder why? :D
My grandmother, who cared for him every step of the way, only went on one date with my grandfather. Then, he was sent off to war. Through written communication they strengthened their bonds and, upon his return, they wed. 63 years later, she is still by his side, though he has gone to meet the Lord. We should all be so lucky! My mother is great because of them, and I strive to be great because of her and my father.
So raise a glass, fire off a few rounds, or just press play on that cheesy Boomer Sooner ringtone on your phone. Whatever you do, just remember James L, a great man.
Thanks.
His service in Northern Africa and Italy during World War II is, to this day, one of the things I am most proud of about my family. The strength he showed there and the sacrifices he made during his time overseas helped make this country what it is today. I have his key from the hotel he stayed in in Rome and it is, without question, my most treasured possession. I also have his ruf/nek paddle from his days at OU. I bet he was in one of the first few classes of that unique group. He never would tell me all the stuff they did... I wonder why? :D
My grandmother, who cared for him every step of the way, only went on one date with my grandfather. Then, he was sent off to war. Through written communication they strengthened their bonds and, upon his return, they wed. 63 years later, she is still by his side, though he has gone to meet the Lord. We should all be so lucky! My mother is great because of them, and I strive to be great because of her and my father.
So raise a glass, fire off a few rounds, or just press play on that cheesy Boomer Sooner ringtone on your phone. Whatever you do, just remember James L, a great man.
Thanks.