My father cherished and adored and loved Sandy. He was the same with my mother. My dad loved his family and his friends and  his buddies.  He loved, honored and praised his country. He was a patriot and a proud American. My dad was vocal and always told the truth. He was the sharpest businessman I ever will know. I have personally witnessed him in many business situations. He made every one of his many long time customers feel as if they were his only customer.  He made everyone feel important. He knew every road in the Bronx. He was able to navigate his way around the Bronx with ease.  He would say to me "Stay away from the Cross Bronx". I'll show you a better and a faster way."  I recall many Saturdays with him at Co-Op City.  Saturday was a big collection day.  I learned many things from my father. I've mentioned a few already. Love of family and friends. Dedication to State and Country. A steadfast business ethic. I learned many other things. Simple things. Simple for most people. Baiting a fish hook. Walking. Running. Catching, throwing and hitting a baseball.  Tossing a horse shoe and a foul shot. He taught me the "set shot". Tying my shoe laces. Buttoning my shirt. Throwing and catching a football. He taught me to drive.  I am the absolute master of the broken u turn. We practiced them together for two years. My pop wanted to make sure that I could handle a car.  None of these things were easy for me. I was born with a physical disabiliy. For years my dad worked with me every night after supper. He was my physical therapist for many years. He was exhausting and relentless. In time, doing simple tasks got easier.  My life became more normal. Just like every other kid.  I will always remember those days with my dad. He taught me to persevere. He taught me integrity. Daddy, you will be with me always. You helped make me into the man  that I am today.  I am proud to be your son.

Love,

Richard