February 22, 2011 Thank you Daddy. More than anything I just liked hanging out with you. When I was younger, I adored and followed Art around. As I matured into a young woman I realized you were a pretty interesting guy that could teach me so much. You taught me many practical things, like how to hang a picture so it will never fall off the wall, how to cut the grass and not make a mess, how to make a cement sidewalk that will never crack, how to build a shed that will last for decades, how to assemble anything without an instruction book, how to start a fire that will never die, and how to plant a tree that will grow tall and strong. As I grew from a young girl to a woman, I loved the independence and the self satisfaction from doing these things that any self respecting young man ought to know. Dad you taught me so much more. I watched you live your life with simplicity and joy. You were always happy, content and positive. Your passions and hobbies may have seemed simplistic but I now know they were really the things that matter most in life. You taught me to treat everyone with kindness and respect regardless of their background or status. You taught me not to be shy and to ask for what I need. You told me not to waste time worrying on what others may think. And if something was bothering me you just said, "Forget about it." Patti and I spent many happy times around the table laughing with you and Mom and enjoying your funny nature. With pride we would often would repeat your stories to our friends. Even shopping with you made me giggle because everywhere we went people knew you by name. Walking into places like Costco or Home Depot you would be greeted with a big smile from an employee saying, "Hi Tony". Much of my love of fine food and style began with you. When we were only children you taught us to appreciate the taste and smell of a good bottle of olive oil. Now I'm all grown up and I cherish our memories when I savour a great glass of wine or beautifully baked bread. Thank you Daddy for this and so much more. You will be in my heart forever. Our family will always be grateful for you. I miss you already and my heart aches to see you again. Daddy I'm that tree. And thanks to you and Mom I will stand tall and strong. Love Eternally, Giovanna