Remembering Doug

 Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather

He Was So Proud!

Doug at 80. First day of Class

Dear Joanie, Rafe, and Luca (and any other readers),

    There are so many things I want to tell you about Doug, an extraordinary, smart, loving, and kind human being. He knew all three of you, although you will not remember him, or, if you do, it will be a vague memory. If anything, you will remember his laugh, which might reside somewhere in your inner selves.

    But Doug knew all three of you. He was there at Joanie's first birthday. Because Luca lived so close, he was very much a part of his life. And the very last trip our Doug ever took was to come with Luca and family to see Joanie and to meet Rafe, our newest addition to our grand and great-grand parent lives. 

    When Doug died, Joanie was four, Luca was two, and Rafe was fourteen months old. I want to be very clear that with all that Doug did in life, his family was most important to him. He never cared very much to talk about himself, much less to brag, but when it came to grandchildren and great grandchildren, he bragged a lot!

    I want you to know about his life and times, and so I've pulled together a few stories that I hope you enjoy. I hope you can get a good sense of the man we all loved--and know also that he loved you.

    Love,

    Grandma and GG Katie

P.S. It's very important to remember that we do have other Grandchildren: Brett. Andrew, and Eric, all grown ups who got to know Doug from the time they were little kids.