A submariner in World War II
They volunteered to work on a sub
If it took a hit, all went down together

Married his high school sweetheart
During the war, on shore leave
How could he leave her?

As babies, in their small New England town
Their respective mothers had put their babies in the same crib
When separated, the babies cried for want to be together

After VJ day, they settle down
He built a small house, in-law size
Where they started, now a family of four

Carpentry, his father’s calling
He had a knack for all things electric
Moved to California and began his trade

Master electrician, corporations soon found him
How long will it take? to fix huge machines
“If you listen the machines talk to you.”

Alaska called for cannery repairs
He liked it so he bought a fishing boat
Never straying too long from wife and family

Enjoyed the community of religion
Volunteer electrical work at the local church
Appreciated, honored, all for free

Outlived everyone – brothers, wife, friends
If you’re lucky you can visit
Though he may be busy, walking the driveway

At 102, still clear as a bell
Enjoy his lifelong stories
He asked on our last visit,
“What can I do for you?”