Grandpa,

Thank you for being who you are. I'm continually amazed at the example you set for our entire family. I know that I'm so thankful to have the opportunity to call you my grandpa, and I'm sure the other grandchildren would agree--you can't be beaten. Your constant love, kind heart and devotion to God do not go unnoticed by us; you help us to become better people by all of the lessons you've taught us. It's extremely difficult to put such a large amount of gratitude into words, but I'm going to try.

Let's start with your constant love. You are always there to support us in whatever we decide to do, and you do it willingly and excitedly. You are always looking to share that love with our family, especially when we're all together. Speaking of which, you and Grandma are always inviting the whole family over for dinner to spend time together, and I'll tell you that the food is pretty darn good, but getting to spend time together is even more awesome. You care about us and want to see all of us succeed and be happy, and that in itself makes you wonderful. You carry this love throughout your everyday life, and I think that's amazing.

My whole life, I've known you as someone who is always looking for ways to help others, and that says a lot about your kind heart and character. You go above and beyond for everyone you encounter and are always looking for opportunities to spread that kindness. Wherever you go, you are all there--fully present and eager to serve. You have instilled the importance of serving others in your children, and also to your grandchildren. I can only hope to be as actively helpful and involved one day as you are now, Grandpa. I'm lucky to know and love such a selfless and kind person and to have you make an impact on my life.

Lastly, Grandpa, you are not only willing to serve others wholeheartedly, but also God. God is truly using you as a vessel to spread His love and hope to people everywhere, whether it be locally or across the world. You are faithful to Him and have helped strengthen our faith by the example you are and the person God calls you to be throughout your everyday life. I know your love for God has fostered the love and kindness you show, and I'm so blessed that God gave us you to be a light in all of our lives. You have played a large role in my walk with God, and that's something I'll be able to carry with me my whole life; I think that's so incredible.

Simply put, Grandpa, you're one heck of a guy. And I love you for that.

With love & gratitude,

Abigail