R.I.P., Grandpa Al

Here's a copy of a get-well note I came across, sent by me on September 8, 2003, to “Grandpa” Al Lewis. After a long bout with multiple illnesses, he was hospitalized, and then spent a long time at home, during which we hoped would be his recuperation. You knew him from the television sitcom “Car 54, Where are you,” as a dizzy, lovable cop, and as Grandpa in “The Munsters.” I knew him as a regular New York radio host on one of WBAI's most popular talk shows. He was definitely on the leftwing of the political spectrum, and cantankerous as hell. But still lovable.

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Dear Grandpa Al,

This is from one of your politically conservative fans, who agrees with you more these days than with those monsters in the White House.

A great many of us rightwingers learned the hard way the truth of that warning, “Be careful of what you wish for.” We never wished to see our government highjacked by warmongers, or to see the Founders' vision spat on and turned on its head.

I'm glad you're out there to remind us that we can agree to disagree on some issues, but we can come together to fight against our country being turned into the bully of the world.

So, get a move on now, pick yourself up, and bring your crotchety self back to us. You're sorely missed.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth

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Grandpa Al died on February 3, 2006.