One time, we visited him at home and were greeted with presents and beach toys in every part of his backyard- because we needed something to do, right? (One of those presents was a miniature patio set with sunbrella and padded chairs for my little sisters. Because- outdoors.)
Another year, as teenagers, he took us all out for ice cream. And there just so happened to be a candy store attached. Did we want any candy? (We did want candy.) So Uncle Fe legitimately bought out 75% of that store. Actual quote: “Look, they have penuche fudge. What’s penuche fudge? We’ll take two pounds.” At the end of that jaunt, I had penned a song entitled “Uncle Fe For Mayor.” (My sisters joined in with their titles for him, i.e.; “president,” “overlord,” “tsar.”)
When I was six and told him I dreamed of acting, he called me his star and told me he’d be my manager. And, since then, he’s never failed to send roses to every dressing room of every play in which I’ve ever performed.
He’s one of the most amazing, generous, and kind souls I’ve ever had the honor of calling family…and he deserves better than this. I want my girls to hear his laugh and listen to the dryly hilarious responses he gives my mother. I want him to live to be 107 so that I can hear him tell my father to “Wait, just wait.”
I want more time.
We adore you, Uncle Fe. Get better, feel well, and know how very, very loved you are.
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