My uncle Joe

Everyone has some great memories from being a kid.  For me some of the best are spending time in the Summer on the Cape at G&P's with my Uncle Joe, Aunt Elaine and their boys, Matt and Jon.  Baseball was played in the street, soccer in the yard, windows were accidentally broken, hermit crabs were chased, and fish were caught on the jetty.  Little did I know at the time how much these memories would stay with me.  

As I grew older, my Uncle and I would often get into conversation in the evenings while watching baseball.  I always enjoyed these conversations immensly even though he and had very different views on things there was always a fundemental common ground that we both appreciated.  Luckily for me I got to experience this one last time this past Spring when I visited him and Aunt Elaine.  

For several years, my Uncle has been in a tremendous battle with cancer.  As is too often the case, the cancer won out on 27 October and he is no longer with us.  I am very greatful to have the memories of him that I do and it is with great pride and honor that I say he is part of my family.  I will never forget him and the impact he had on my life.  May he now find the peace that his battle had to have made difficult over the past years.  And may my aunt and cousins find peace and happiness in his memory.