Tim visits grandpa

When I reflect on the most influential people in my life, Albert always comes to mind. He was an extraordinary gentleman, and I was blessed to have him as godfather and cousin, whom, to those of you who know me, was always referred to as "Uncle". In life, he worshipped every Sunday, read the classics and all works of History, enjoyed crossword puzzles to keep his intellect well exercised, and had a most passionate love of all sports and good cars. Most of his childhood was spent in Italy, where he was sent to our grandparents, Giuditta and Nicola, to be raised. Surely that is where all of his classical tastes first developed. After his studies at the Sorbonne, he returned from Europe to finish his education at the University of Chicago, later excelled for over four decades as a Linguistics professor at Northeastern University, until his retirement. Albert serendipitously met his wife, Nilda when he sat in on a colleague's evening class of rudimentary Italian, courted her patiently for several years. He married the love of his life, who sadly passed away ten years to the day before him. He remained Nilda's companion and best friend for 63 years, even as her health declined during her last four years.  He said that after her death, he missed her deeply every day.  As his three children came, he took a part-time job selling suits at Carson Pirie Scott to supplement the family income. He always understood true commitment and sacrifice for those he loved dearest.  He was best friend and nephew to my own father, George Dirindin, and these two kindred spirits could always be found together on Tuesdays, listening to one of their favorite pieces of operatic music.  As he came from a home of divorce, I was always curious as to how Albert became such a devoted husband, without a strong example.  He confided in me that he always looked to the great writers, Dante and Proust, whose letters to the women they loved inspired him to be the man he became, a most touching sentiment. I will always remember him as a Renaissance man, well before the term was popularized, altruistic in his views of mankind, and looked to the good in others.  I know that Heaven is filled with his Nilda, fine wines, French cuisine, Opera, and all the literature he has still to savor.

Celebrating Albert’s 90th Birthday!!!

I enjoyed spending so many holidays and good times together with you and your family over the years!  I'm writing this condolence on Easter, which is appropriate, because I am celebrating the victory of the Holy Spirit over the mortal flesh.  Your spirit will reside in Heaven forever!!!  Charlie