Thirty Days of Thanks - Day 9

Since today is my Otta’s 86^th birthday, I figure what better day to start being thankful for people?  So, today I am thankful for my grandparents, Nick & Maria.

Both are really remarkable people.  The oldest siblings in each of their families, they were each responsible for quite a bit at relatively young ages.  Each faced adversity in the last years of World War II, as well as those following the war, but rebuilt their lives and later immigrated to the US with their infant daughter to start a new one.

They are each important figures in the Chicago German community, so influential that a few years ago Otta was honored with the Bundesverdienstkreuz.  This award, which Otta received for hisr dedication to and furtherance of German culture, is bestowed on only a distinguished few.  Growing up, I cannot remember a time during which Otta was not in charge of at least something at the Donauschwaben! 

Oma ran the ladies’ auxiliary group for several years, and was always convinced that it couldn’t run without her.  In fact last May (2011) when she had her open heart surgery I can remember having an extended conversation with her about an upcoming event for which the ladies would be cooking – she was so concerned about how the reservations were coming along, about what they’d serve for lunch, about who would do all of the shopping if she was unable to.

More important than their dedication to the Donauschwaben, however, was their dedication to my siblings and me.  After my father passed away they bought a house located only a few miles from ours, and were always on call for rides to work or school, soccer games and other sporting events, and concerts.  They stepped in to help my mother where- and whenever she needed, and were always there for us. 

Several years ago for Christmas, Oma gave me a book titled “The Complete Ave Maria,” which contains both the Schubert & the Bach/Gounod in 3 different keys each, and each for solo voice and solo piano/organ – twelve versions in all.  She told me that she expected me to sing it at her funeral.  I dread having to do it, and it will be exceedingly difficult, but it’s the least I can do for her.

Oma & Otta last October at Tony & Mel's wedding