A legend of your own

The fair will never be the same.
I know that, when I go, I will catch myself
Scanning the crowds for your face,
Eyes crinkled in laughter,
Iconic white beard catching the sun.

As a child I would brag that you were secretly
Santa Claus, hiding in plain sight.
Or else Robin Hood retired, with your green felt hat.
But you were a legend of your own.
With roots grown deep
And branches spread wide.

You earned a great many badges in your lifetime,
From farmer and father to
Great grandfather.
And you wore each like a jewel around your neck,
But they never weighed you down.

You were a man of distinction.
You navigated through life as an independent force,
Sharing your love of conversation, quick wit and humor
Along the way.
I’m sure that, even now,
You are bantering with the angels.