Stan

We got the sad news today that Sam's grandfather died early this morning. He was 91 years old. I've only known him for the last 9 years or so, but I know he had such a profound influence on Sam. He had a strong willed personality--stubborn and stern sometimes, but really humorous and so intelligent. He had a great love of books and family and by the way, any of you who have ever had a Sam-made cocktail, you probably have Stan to thank for that. He really enjoyed those with his after dinner pipe, enjoyed Sam making them, too. I remember the first time I met Sam's grandparents, no one had told me about his granddad's tradition of saying goodbye at any family gathering by serenading everyone with his big booming voice. Usually an older tune from the 40's or 50's. In honor of my first visit, he asked me what song I wanted to hear and I told him the first song that popped in my head-- "On the Street Where You Live" from My Fair Lady. He said he'd try it until he ran out of lyrics he could remember. I think he sang almost the whole thing. And while I know he passed away in his sleep-- a comfort at the very least, I prefer to think of him walking out like that, just with his nice clear voice singing, taking his leave.


photo: Stan singing at our wedding, Aug. 18, 2007.