Dear pop in heaven,
Writing to wish you a Happy Father’s Day and Happy birthday all rolled into one.
You turn 76 on June 20. There were several iconic sports heroes who joined you in paradise within the last month, including Muhammad Ali and Gordie Howe.
I can picture you sitting down with Mr. Hockey and asking him if he ever happened to cross paths with a Morreale. Well, I doubt he’d remember, but it did happen in 2009 at the NHL All-Star Game when I had the privilege of escorting Howe to each locker room. Quite a treat, for sure.
I remember you explaining to me how Howe was the greatest ever, even though I wouldn’t believe it. I defended Bobby Clarke, of course, at that time. But I do remember a few simple words that stuck with me.
You said: “That Gordie Howe was one tough son-of-a-bitch. He beat the shit out of you and then score three goals and the other team could do nothing.”
So that was my first recollection of Howe as a teen who thought he knew everything about the game. I was wrong.
Everything that was said by Howe’s youngest son, Murray Howe, during the eulogy also brought back memories of you. A dedicated husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend to everyone. Strength, character and a calming influence. A dedicated family man!
I received the ultimate compliment a few months ago when we were with cousins Aunt Chickie, Camille and Carol while heading to see Katie in ‘A Chorus Line’ at Marist College. They both said if they closed their eyes and listened to my voice, they would think it was you talking. I thought that was really neat.
Erica and Kate
I’d like to think you’re proud of the way I’m living my life. I know mom expresses that fact all the time so I suppose things are on target. Nobody’s perfect but I realize that if you don’t try, you probably don’t care.
There are a lot of other people I’m sure you are extremely proud of, like your grand-daughters Erica and Katie, who are each working this summer and keeping busy with other projects.
As grandpa Morreale once said: “Wanna eat; gotta work.”
We are all looking forward to joining mom on a cruise to Alaska in August; I know you would have celebrated 50 years with mom this September. It’ll be a chance to reflect on the impact you left on all of us, and the impact mom now has since you left us way too young in September 2012.
There are many things you have taught me about fatherhood: Family first. Be honest and respectful. Treat people as you want to be treated. Ask questions and, most importantly, listen.
Well, pop. That’s it for now. Say ‘Hello’ to all those family and friends we’ve lost on earth who are now with you in heaven. We miss you terribly.
Xoxoxo
Family Focus 