The Greatest Man I've Ever Known

Safe Passage Gramp...

The greatest man I've ever known passed away today.  He would have been 84 this June.  He was an only child, born in the house he died in.  Married to the same woman for 61 years.  I only hope I can become half the man that he is.  I'll miss you Gramp, always.

His Hands
Dedicated to Philip McGetrick 1924 - 2008


His hands are scarred and weathered
His hands are torn and rough
His hands have seen quite alot
Some might say, they've seen enough

His hands have gone from smooth to wrinkled
His hands have sweat and bled
His hands were feared on Sherman Road
At least that's what some kids have said

His hands are full with wisdom gained
His hands have reared his children
His hands will always be respected
Among the McGetrick men and women

His hands for me are an inspiration
His hands will be my guide
His hands will show the way through life
And I will follow them with pride

18,796 views 29 replies
Reply #1 Top
My sincere condolence to you and your family messiah1. From what you wrote he truly was a greatman.
Reply #2 Top
i'm sorry to hear about your grandfather, may he rest in peace.
Reply #3 Top
May you and yours find comfort in knowing that he now rest with God in Heaven. My condolences go out to you and your family.
Reply #4 Top
..........beautiful poem.......im sure he would have loved it......
Reply #5 Top
So sorry to hear of your loss, Messiah, condolences to you and your family.
Reply #6 Top
Sorry bud!
Reply #7 Top
sorry to hear that mate, may your grandfather rest in peace.
Reply #9 Top
I'm sorry to hear of your loss.It's been 35 years now and I still grieve for my Grandpa, the greatest,kindest man I have ever met.I've spent most of my life trying to live up to his example. They sure leave some big shoes to fill.
Reply #10 Top
Sorry for your loss. I never knew either of my grandfathers they died before I was born.
Reply #11 Top
Wow, that's awesome messiah1. I'm sure he's just as proud of you. A really nice tribute.
Reply #12 Top
Sorry for your loss and know exactly how it is to miss such a great person too!

SGT :SNIFF!: 
Reply #14 Top


My deepest sympathies for your loss messiah1.
Reply #15 Top
a person never really dies so long as someone remembers them.....sounds like he's going to live on in hearts and memories for a very long time......
a lovely poem messiah....he'd be proud....
Reply #16 Top
my condolences Steven. May he Rest in Peace and your family grow closer from it. Love you brother!
Reply #17 Top
I only hope I can become half the man that he is.
End of quote


Judging by the mere fact that you even contemplated his greatness, and how you factor in there, indicates, at least to me, you're well on your way to living up to the legend your Grandfather is.

Well done.

Hugs and sunshine to you, if you need it. :)
Reply #18 Top
Sorry for your loss.
Reply #19 Top
Lost both of mine, both of which i cared deeply about, many years ago.. seems like last week.. you never really get over it..hold on to the memories..they never really fade.

Sorry man.  :NOTSURE: 
Reply #20 Top
Never an easy thing. Sorry to hear it. :NOTSURE:
Reply #21 Top
My sincere condolence to you and your family.... Sorry to hear your lost...
Reply #22 Top
My condolences to you and yours.   Sorry to hear that. 
Reply #23 Top
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Reply #24 Top
certainly he lulled you with his hands this way his strongness became yours until now + forever ... my deepest condolences ...
Reply #25 Top
messiah1 Sorry for your loss.