Today, I lost my grandfather. He passed away unexpectedly this morning without pain from what we believe to be heart failure. So, today I stop to remember my last living grandfather, Michael L. Roginsky, Sr.

My favorite memory that we shared was spending the night on Saturday nights with Pop and MamaAnn, and me and Pop watching Dr. Who and eating Triscuts and cottage cheese. Healthy snack for a young kid! Pop was one of the most talented men and engineers I knew… He helped design the C-130 and F-22 Fighter for Lockheed Martin throughout his career. More importantly, he loved his family and was so proud of all of us. He never hesitated to help us whenever we needed it and always put himself last to provide and be there for others.

In some ways, he was a man of mystery. His parents were from Russia, he was born in Brazil, and he came to the States when he was 18 to attend the Citadel. Pop was indeed a very special man. He had stories that you would hardly believe, and you found yourself entranced when he spoke of things he had seen and places he had been.

Pop, I love you and will miss you greatly. I look forward to seeing you in Heaven and will greet you with a big hug and kiss for all you have done for me. My tears are only for my loss of not having you here anymore, and my tears also celebrate the peace and joy you now experience for eternity. We love you and miss you!