In Memory of Russell Barlow, my Grandfather

Ever since I was young

I've been having fun.

At your house for fun

you told me to play

on the double yellow line.

And people told me "Don't whine!"

when I refused to walk the line.

You were a tough man

but a loving man.

Full of jokes and sarcasm

and Chianti.

But you never stopped loving me.

You lived a good life,

married a wonderful woman

and nine kids came along

to make you sing happy songs.

In the later years

there were no fears

when all those grandkids

came into the picture.

You loved us always.

You didn't say it often

but we still knew

by your smile

when you joked with us.

At times you were the strong, silent type.

But not afraid to speak your mind.

Kind of like Mr. T from the A-Team.

I still watch it sometimes.

I still remember.

I hope you do too.

Now that you're gone,

your memory still lives on

inside us all.

I speak for all of us when I say,

Grandpa we love you.

Grandpa we miss you.

Watch over us

and we'll see you soon.

RIP Russell Barlow <3

A husband to one,

A father to some,

A grandfather to many.