Thursday, November 13, 2008

A tribute to my Grandfather: I love you Papa!

Well it's been a month since we buried my dearest grandfather and I'm barely going through pictures from the funeral. My mind immediately flooded with precious memories of him. You know lately, there has been so many movies about superheroes that have hit the big screen and I've seen almost all since my husband is a big fan, but I can honestly say that I've had a real life superhero in my life and that is my Grandpa! I remember being young living in Laie and always being at Papa's house. He loved his grandchildren and when we got into trouble, he would always save us from any punishment our parents would dish out. His favorite thing to do was put you on his lap, force your arm way up high and tickle you almost to death. He was a man of great faith and would always teach me the importance of paying tithing, even as I grew to adulthood. He was a hardworking man as a world famous carver. He hand crafted everything, never needing a machine for precision or accuracy, from headboards, canes, caskets, old samoan weapons, canoes, but his most sought after carving was the traditional Samoan tanoa, or the ava bowl. He took care of his family financially through this marvelous talent and this is what the Purcell family was built upon. We as his grandchildren, and great grandchildren benefit from that today. I miss my grandfather dearly. It will be hard going back home to Laie, and not being able to physically see my Papa. I will miss walking into his home and seeing him sitting on his chair in the living room with a big smile and giving me the "shaka" sign. There is nothing quite like grandparents. My grandparents have loved me unconditionally despite my many mistakes. I hope I can continue the legacy he left behind. I miss you Papa, but I know that if I am deemed worthy, I will see you again! I love you!


3 comments:

  1. Hey cousin! I didn't know you had a blog! Love this tribute to your grandfather! I hope is girls can find a time to get together and just catch up. Love you guys and we'll ttys!

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  2. Hey cuz! I know I miss my grandfather, but know he's in a better place. The kids are too cute and growing up sooo fast. Let's get together soon. Love ya!

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  3. Hey cuz! I know I miss my grandfather, but know he's in a better place. The kids are too cute and growing up sooo fast. Let's get together soon. Love ya!

    ReplyDelete