Uncle Nat’s Eulogy:
As I began to collect all of my thoughts and memories of my Uncle Nat in preparation for
today, a Latin expression came to me that best surmises the life of my uncle – CARPE
DIEM (Seize the Day).
My uncle epitomized this expression in everything he did – from teaching my cousin,
sister and I how to ski & golf, or expound on the virtues of investing in mutual funds as a
self-taught Financial Advisor. He lived every moment in motion, with little time for
relaxation, especially if he was busy showing me how Spider-Man would dance. He was
a man of action, not wanting to procrastinate on any issue, particularly if it revolved
around politics. I can remember many a political debate revolved around his advocacy of
Ross Perot, even though we all told him that Ross was really Frank Perdue in disguise.
He also had a wonderful trait that cannot be taught – he was a MOTIVATOR and a
LEADER that could be felt the minute you walked in the room. I’m sure this trait was
key to his success in everything he did – business, sports, or life in general. Although
highly opinionated (and heaven help you if you disagreed with him as he would tell my
mom nicely, “Joycey, it’s time to go home”), my uncle was a very intelligent man on
many levels. He had a business-savvy that was admired by many, including my father. I
still remember the story of the time my uncle motivated and convinced by father to tell
his Japanese supplier that he could sell one million pair of sneakers in the U.S., and he
did!!
Most importantly, I will remember him as a second father to me. He loved and cared for
my family unconditionally and because of him, I know that I am a better person and will
forever be grateful to have shared so many great times over the years.
I could not think of a more appropriate day of the week to remember my Uncle – Sunday.
As his words will now carry on to my children through an infamous song that will
constantly remind us of him and put a smile in our hearts:
“No beer today, no beer today, no beer today is Sunday.
No beer today, no beer today, you’ll have to wait till Monday.
O’ the only girl I ever loved had a face like a horse and a monkey.
O’ it rained last night and the night before, O fireman save my child.
But the child was bigger than the fireman…
Go get a monkey wrench your father is a nut. “
I love you Uncle and will miss you dearly…AMEN.