Remembering An Amazing Grandpa

I found out this past Friday that my Grandpa passed away. He just turned 88 on Thursday, and was with my Grandma and Aunt when he passed. He was struggling for a couple of years, and is in a better place now. This is what brings me peace about the situation.

My Grandpa’s name is Charlie Hollen. He was a World War 2 veteran, parent of three, grandparent of 4, and great grandparent of 2 humans, and plenty of furry four legged and feathered two legged ones! He was one of the sweetest and kindest people I have ever met!

Grandma and Grandpa and my Aunt Ginny

Some of the earliest memories I have of Grandpa are of hanging out over at Grandma and Grandpa’s house while my parents were at Louisville basketball games. I also remember every time we went over to G&G’s house for a holiday or anything, Grandpa would make me a sandwich. He always made the best sandwiches! I used to call him Gramps, and it always made him smile .

Then, there were the trips to Florida every year. G&G would go to New Smyrna Beach for a whole month, and the rest of us would come down for a couple of weeks. We always had SO much fun on the beach!!

I remember renting four wheelers and riding with Grandpa and my Dad down the beach. I also remember the snack trucks and getting ice cream pops with a gumball on them. Grandma and Grandpa always took me to Pappa’s Drive-In diner where I would get beef tips and noodles, and it was SO good! They would always have condo #211 at the Golden Arms, which ended up being the place everyone went to hang out. It was the condo on the end with the best views and the most room. Those were the days, huh?!

Grandma and Grandpa also took us on our first cruise for their 50th wedding anniversary. We had so much fun! They probably went on at least 25-30 cruises together. They knew how to live it up!!

Grandpa used to tell me stories about when he was on a submarine in World War 2, and they bailed water out of their boats with their hats .  So cute!

I know Grandpa is in a better place now, and is not suffering anymore. He passed away peacefully. I love you and will miss you Grandpa!

Until We Meet Again ,

Stacey