What I've Been Doing

I just saw that I haven't posted since like, November 9th or something. Earlier this month, my Grandpa went into the hospital with a very grave prognosis. On November 11, which ironically was Veteran's Day, he lost his fight. Obviously, we've been busy with funeral planning, and then funeral attending. My blog, nonetheless, has taken a hit. The funeral was this past Sunday, which was also the day that we left for Wisconsin Dells for our "vacation" to Glacier Canyon Lodge. It was supposed to be Vincent's birthday present. We still went, but with heavy hearts. I'll post more on that when I can find a pic that doesn't embarrass me in my bathing suit.
I was going to write about all the things my Grandpa did and was in his 88 years on this planet. I then realized that I would need a novel, not a blog, to accurately portray his life and what he was to so many people. Happily, we were all part of the decisions regarding Grandpa's care, and most of the family was at his bedside for his last hours, holding his hand as he went through the pearly gates. We have peace knowing that we made decisions with his wishes in mind, and that he didn't suffer. Literally, this was a man who went from installing a furnace in the basement of one of his many rental homes one day, to being gravely and acutely ill in the ICU the next. My Aunt drafted a pretty impressive obituary, while it only highlights a minute part of what this man has accomplished in his long life. After we attended the burial, with a Naval presenting of colors to my Grandma and playing of TAPS, we "drank to his good life" as he requested at Strongbow Inn. Thanks for all the memories Grandpa, and rest in peace.
George Joseph Puchowski, 88, a lifelong resident of Lake Station, New Chicago and Hobart, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart. George is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Dorothy (nee Miller) whom he married on Valentine's Day in 1942: five children: Carol Puchowski and Janet Richmond, both of Valparaiso, George Michael Puchowski, Gerald Puchowski and Dan Puchowski, all of Hobart; four grandchildren, Michelle (Moises) Vallejo of Tucson, AZ, Jennifer (Brian) McDonald of Valparaiso; Michael Puchowski and Kaytlin Puchowski of Crown Point; four great grandchildren: Mya and Marley Vallejo of Tucson, AZ and Vincent and Jade McDonald of Valparaiso; and nieces, nephews and other family members, including Joanne Toigo and Lloyd Purchatzke. Preceded in death by his parents: Zachary and Albina Puchowski of Lake Station; sisters: Nina (Al) Waichulis of New Chicago and Ellen Needs of Lake Station; and brother, Theodore (Judith) Puchowksi of Hobart. George was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy during WW II and the Korean War as a Seabee. He was a lifetime member of New Chicago Paul Leon Wolek American Legion Post #454 and was elected First District Commander in 1953 and Commander of Post #454 in 1954. George was instrumental in establishing an American Legion Post #1 in Tokyo, Japan during the Korean War and was also a member of Lake County 40/8, Voiture 470. In 1976 George retired from U.S. Steel after 37 years as a roll turner. He was a 50-year member of Mensa International. Between 1958 and 1965 George enjoyed running bi-weekly dances for area teens at the New Chicago Youth Center. One of the greatest highlights of his life was being asked to deliver the Commencement Address for the Edison Class of 2006 on the 67th anniversary of his own graduation from Edison. George was a hard-working and generous man who loved his family, made friends easily, and was often seen with his beloved dog," Blue" and later with "Blue Too." George loved reading the morning paper and wouldn't start his day until he had completed the Jumble word puzzle over breakfast at one of his favorite Hobart restaurants. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fr. Blaney's Share Foundation with the Handicapped, P.O. Box 400, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371 (219-778-2585) or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (800-873-6983).