Although many have asked, there will be no services for my grandfather. I would like to assume that I would have been able to speak on his behalf if there were. As an alternative, I wanted to do something to further share his name and life. If you would like to indulge my simple tribute, read on.
“My daughters have been blessed with the opportunity to have so many grandparents that they necessitate code names; Beach grandma, Fire Truck, Red Truck, Pumpkin Picking grandma, Cowboy (now Diesel) grandpa, and their greats. This is something I will never be able to relate to, being that my mother’s parents passed too young for memory. Although unfortunate, I’ve NEVER wanted for a grandparent’s love.
John Nicholas Kaplavka, born December 23, 1929, was the world to me, his oldest granddaughter. Many say we shared a special connection that was unlike any other. We shared quiet conversations...valued the simplicity of an acorn...relished in grandma’s fruit kabobs...were connected by a song about a Magic Dragon...and appreciated stories of the past. His blue eyes smiled at me always. And lovingly, his natural affections extended to my own children. Paige was his “Mabel” with whom he shared an appreciation for swimming and music. Mikayla, who shares his blonde hair, once referred to him as a gentleman...after he “snuck” her some extra sweet treats from his private chair-side stash. We were lucky to share time, all together, that included word searches, vanilla ice cream and extender arm wars. Through each of us, he will live on beyond June 21, 2019.
“Johnny” was born to immigrant parents from Slovakia; Stephen and Catherine Kaplavka. He was ultimately the youngest of 8 siblings. He is now with those he expressed care and fondness of, most especially his mother, brother Charlie and sisters Helen and Pauline. To have recalled waving good-bye to his mother outside her hospital window at such a young age had to have been a painful recollection. But, all the pain is gone now and they are finally together again; both at peace.
Being a first-generation American comes with a great deal of responsibility. I have always been humbled and proud of my hard-working, blue-collar roots. My grandfather provided for his wife (Jeannette) and three children (John, Barbara & Diane) with jobs that saw him grow with increasing leadership and respect. As a child, whenever I came across someone who knew him, I was always provided with words of praise for his character. He was reliable, strong, creative, witty and charming. Ultimately, I like to think that the family is unique and special to the Milford Public School system. Once you know the Kaplavka name, I believe it sticks with you with a sincere regard. My grandfather helped make this happen. Although born and raised in Bridgeport, his roots were most prevalent in Milford.
At my wedding, I was sure to reserve a special dance just for us. We danced to Paul Anka’s, Times of Your Life. A line in that song cites how “memories are time that you borrow”. Memories are all I have now...but I’m lucky that they are numerous and deeply heartfelt. I’m going to miss him terribly, but I hope and will try to trust that what I’m missing lives on inside of me and my girls. Gone but not forgotten is indeed the perfect phrase and there is no undoing what my grandfather and I had.
Grandpa, our side of the house seat is empty now and although my head may be bent in sorrow, I believe Honahlee’s Cherry Lane just became a bit more perfect and magical. I love you.”