Hi there…Annie here. So, today we’re doing something a little bit different; we’re dedicating this post and this day to my Grandfather, George Curtis Tunnell. He was born on January 8, 1910 and passed away on May 27, 2011. Apart from all that, he was just a great man and today we will go to his funeral. We won’t be mourning his death as much as we will be celebrating his life. After all, death is saddest for those that get left behind to miss the dear one that is no longer with us.
My Grandpa was one of those men that you noticed when he walked in a room, he was tall; 6’ 2”, good looking with bright blue eyes and a great smile. He was sharp…and I don’t just mean smart, but witty, sarcastic in an intelligent way, and self-educated about politics, current events, finances, and business. He came from a pioneering family in Santa Maria, but also from very meager beginnings. Armed with just a high school education and a life of working the family farm, he started his own roofing company in 1949 out of his living room. He took that business, along with a set of growing investments in real estate and turned it all into an estate worth being incredibly proud of. My Dad ran the roofing company for many years, and now my older brother, John runs it.
Along with all that good business savvy, he was just a neat man. He was an incredible Grandfather. He commanded respect; we never questioned him, we looked up to him and listened to what he said. We tried our hardest to make him laugh and we listened to his stories. His laugh…I’ll miss that. It was deep and genuine and would make anybody want to join in. He took great care of his family, sure he made some mistakes and wasn’t perfect, but who really is? I could go on with stories that demonstrate all of these traits, but I don’t think all that would fit on this page.
Everybody has a Grandparent that made a mark on their life, right? Well, so did I! I learned about the importance of hard work and I learned that being honest and having integrity is just as important as taking responsibility for your actions. I learned to be respectful and use my manners (this might have been more from my Grandmother) and to act like a lady. I learned to stand up for my beliefs, not to talk back unless you really have something to say, and to be confident in what I do.
My Grandpa called me “Annie Pie” and he’d smile when he said it. So, here’s to you, Grandpa! I’ll miss you with all my heart and can’t wait to see you again someday. Thank you for all the things you did for us, your family and the wonderful legacy that you created. I’ll do my best to make you proud.
You bring tears to my eyes. Everything in this post Annie, so well said. My thoughts are with you.
Oh, Cheri!!! Thank you so much, I appreciate your thoughts, they mean a lot!
Very touching and well said. My grandfather passed away many years ago but his legacy lives on. It’s amazing the positive impact one person can have on so many others lives. Men like our grandfathers are a blessing!
Hi Elizabeth…you’re so right, we’re pretty lucky to have those kinds of influences. Grandparents are pretty cool people! Thank you for reading!!!
What a wonderful Grandpa, yes he made a legacy that will live on in your heart forever, my dad is ten years younger and I am hoping he lives another ten years, it’s always sad to see them go but knowing we will all meet again in heaven is uplifting. God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Thank you, Beverly! That’s great to hear your Dad is still going strong! Enjoy every moment…but I’m sure you do!
Annie I’m sory to hear of your loss. He sounds like a great guy, and at 101 he had a great life.
Thank you Gary! I appreciate it…and he was a great guy! You know, it’s pretty cool when you realize that your family members have had an effect on your community and done great things. I’m pretty sure your people feel the same way about you!
That is an excellent tribute to your grandfather. I wish I knew him.
Thank you, Scott! One of these days, we’ll tell you stories over a cigar and some cocktails…he liked that kind of thing!
Bourbon with a (very small) splash, a Cuban cigar,
highest poker hand at the table, informed conversation
liberally laced with sharp wit and high humor – Salud,
Curt, and love to you!
That covers Grandpa’s happy place! Thanks, Mom!!!
Annie, wow brought tears to my eyes. My grandma turns 92 on Sat. Grandparents are very special people and I can tell you are very special to your grandpa. Glad you got to spend and enjoy him for many wonderful years. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Hey Julie!!! Thanks so much for reading! I appreciate the comments, thoughts, and prayers. Enjoy your time with your Grandma, as I’m sure you are! I was lucky to have so much time with my Grandpa! Great to hear from you, hope you’re doing great! Cheers!!!
Cheerz and Great celebration Annie “Pie”! A very lucky woman you are~
Thanks, Mo!!! Cheers to you, too!!!
Anni Pie…What a beautiful tribute! Being cut from cloth like that, it’s no wonder why you’re such a special lady!
Wow, thank you, KG!!! I appreciate you reading it…have a great day!