Tony Ross

I don't ever talk openly to people besides my wife. Iv always been A very quiet person, or introvert if you will. But today I would like to pay my respects to A very special person that has helped me, been A big influence in my life. He taught us to love Christmas for the Christmas spirit he had, not the toys/money. I will never forget waxing the Camaro with him, then taking it out for a spin with the top down singing "Thats amore" As loud as we could laughing. In many ways he was like A father to me. I had a rough child hood growing up and I didn't trust many male figures in my life, but my grandpa was one of them. My grandpa was always a great mentor and A comfortable voice to talk to. I looked up to him, and he always left you with A handshake/hug that really left you feeling strong and proud. Sometimes in life I feel we get so caught up pursuing our dreams/goals, that we forget to stop and appreciate what we have now. We get so used to the "norm" thinking it will always stay the same. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, its a cliché we have all heard at some point in our lives, but few open their eyes/mind to it. My grandpa was the hardest working, most honest and kind hearted man iv ever met. He had a heart of gold and it has shined bright into my family's hearts. It's sad how we don't realize how big and impactful A person can be until they are gone. As the old saying goes, you don't know what you got till its gone. My grandpa taught me so many valuable lessons in life. But losing my grandpa has taught me to value my family more than ever before.. I'm so sad for all the memories you and little Emily will never have. But I promise I will make sure the lessons I have learned from you will be carried on and your love for us will never be forgotten. You will always be my hero grandpa.-Love your grandson, Joey Ross