My grandfather was a resident of Janesville, Wisconsin until the day of his death. He received average grades in school and after the 12th grade he enlisted in the United States Military. After returning home from the Eastern Front, he fell in love with an Army Nurse named, Norma Volmer, whom he married three years later.

My grandpa's military background may have contributed to the raising of his 5 children. My grandpa was always very interested in my sports events since his only son, was not interested in athletics and now is one of the leading medical authorities in the world. He would drive all the way to Minnesota to watch my games and even if I didn't play well he would talk for hours about the way I ran, caught, shot, or tackled. He would show me a sheet of the things I did well and the things I didn't do well. My grandpa was an avid sports fan and I will al

When my grandpa was finally put into the hospital my family came to seem him for what we knew would be the last time. When he learned I had missed finals and a track meet he insisted I fly back immediately and that he would still be there when I returned. We stayed but selfishly I wanted to get back by the weekend so I could run on Sunday night. We left Sunday morning and the following evening my grandpa passed away with his wife and all five of his children at his bedside.

After the funeral I was asked by my grandma to help carry some of his old things from the basement because she was not strong enough. What resulted is something that has had a he impact on my life. In his basement I opned up his old army footlocker to find another trunk which I opened. When I did, papers burst onto the floor. I picked them up to find records and results of all my academic and athletic achievements from 2nd grade. Hand written notes on programs like, "Andy made a fantastic catch in the 3rd qt.". I found letters he written my mom but not sent reading, "Pat, I am so proud of Andy's accomplishments. He is everything I could want from a grandson and he will do just fine in life.". I find it ironic that I finally understood and appreciated my grandfather after it was too late. I now have been motivated by his heart, his encouragement, his dedication, and his support. Alth

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 929
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)