My great Uncle Freddie was a wonderful person. He hosted 70+ of our family at his home every year for the Annual Rapallo Party. His family, in it's entirety --- cousins, 2nd cousins, 3rd cousins, spouses, children, stepchildren --- was his passion. His door was open to everyone. He greeted every person with genuine warmth and hospitality. Nothing made him happier than that party - to witness his family growing and thriving.
I hope yesterday Uncle Freddie was reunited with his wife, his daughter, my grandfather and grandmother ...and all of his family & friends that went before him. I hope he was able to tell them all about their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren down here. I hope he went with a smile knowing that his family will carry on his tradition of getting together every year to celebrate our heritage. I hope he realizes that he taught us all an invaluable lesson of the importance of family and roots. I hope yesterday the Heavens rejoiced and maybe the Sandy Hook children that went before him got some $2 bills and silver dollars. Rest in Peace, Sweet Uncle Freddie.
