Carl was my brother-in-law. Here is part of one of my grandfather's poems that he wrote and recited on the occasion of his and Carl's birthdays in 1976. Cheers to them both!
"This is a rare event, indeed.
To celebrate it, here we meet.
One is not 80 every year
and, what is more, one is still here.
And to a great deal this depends
On you, my Family and Friends.
For your affection, care and love
Made smooth my life, when it run rough.
And so my thanks from all my heart
To everyone who is a part
Of me and what today I am.
I thank you that today you came.
And suddenly here, something clicks-
Tho' he is only 26.
Carl's birthday is so close to mine,
The thing to do was to combine
The two. Good luck God bless,
We wish you all the happiness.
Not only are the birthdays close.
So are we too - we feel it both.
And as we enter the new year,
Lift up your glass and give a cheer.
To all here present - clear and loud.
I drink to you, you lovely crowd."