In his final days, my dad enjoyed every bit of the life he had built around him. He asked me to detail these specific words:
“I am so sorry to say this premature goodbye to all of the incredible people that helped make 53 years into hundreds of beautiful memories. Most foremost being my kids. Mikey leads the causes I founded back when he was a kid, and I haven’t an ounce of doubt that he will fall in lockstep with my exact dreams and aspirations for my foundation. JJ continues to astound me with his indelible love for all things automotive. I mean, you should see the kids’ work. He makes me look like a rookie. My little man could tell you the make, model, and year of a car just by hearing the engine wine from 2 blocks away. Finally, my little peanut. I am so proud of my little girl, just as I am all of my children. Emmie, (commonly referred to as MJ….her mother’s choice not mine) is pursuing a medical career after her own struggles with childhood disease. In all my days I have not known a more servant heart than hers. She’s been truly unbreakable these past few years, in the face of such terrible circumstances, yet she still continues to fill my house with music and her little boys’ giggles. My Peanut has a beautiful voice that’s been unshakable since we was in pull-ups. My final request is that her and my sons lead the music at my services. Anyways folks, I love you. Light a candle for me.”