Our journey began in September of 1984 and from the beginning it was clear that God had placed someone very special in my life. Filled with a spirit unlike anyone I had ever met, it was clear she was a force. Over the course of our 35 year love affair, she was truly the back bone of our family, which is the case in most families. Basically, single handed, she raised our four boys being mother and father most of the time, as I was on second shift for over 20 years. While working a full time job, she shouldered the daily responsibility of making sure that dinner was prepared, homework was done, and baths were taken. Being a young father, who lost his mother at 20 and lacked the presence of a father growing up, she also shouldered the task of nurturing a husband as well. With love, compassion, and sometimes very persuasive language, she was able to help me channel my focus in only a way that she could. A promise was made by my loving wife to my dying mother that she would take good care of me. For two thirds of my life, Melissa's love and commitment to me, served as my inspiration to become a better father and husband. My wife's guidance served as a driving force for me to meet life's challenges with confidence and resolve. For 35 years, I have been blessed to be the beneficiary of Queens grace, share the same time and same space. My love was truly one of a kind. She can never be replaced! The promise was not deferred. I will honor my wife's legacy by continuing to shower our children and grandchildren with the love that she so willingly showered on me. Rest in peace my love!