This is not a holiday I celebrated much as a child because my dad lived very distant. But later in life I was able to celebrate this day with my father-in-law, Matt.

Matt always treated me as part of his family, usually by teasing the heck out of me like everyone else. After dancing with my husband, Matt was the first person I danced with on my wedding day... and that’s when we connected. That day I not only became Rick's spouse but also became Matt's daughter-in-law.

Matt had a strong work ethic and always financially provided for his family. He retired from GM after 36 years. Matt was a guy straight out of the 50's. He ate mashed potatoes almost every day of his life, slicked back his hair, always played "oldies" on his radio, loved cars, played poker, drank highballs, and smoked unfiltered Lucky Strikes.

Although he was not a hands-on-dad with his own children, Matt became a family man when his grandchildren were born. He would always sneak out of the house early Christmas morning to watch his grandkids open their gifts. Papa loved teasing his grandkids, too. He always told my son, "I'm the Main Man. You're just the Kid."

Matt unexpectedly got extremely sick one winter. One of the last gifts Matt gave his

family—most likely at the urging of his wife Carol—was his estate planning documents. His

Healthcare Power of Attorney allowed Carol to make medical decisions for him when he no

longer could, and his Living Will spelled out his end-of-life choices. His wife of more than 50

years and his five children did not have to make the heartbreaking decision to take him off life

support just days before Christmas. Years earlier Matt had made the decision for them. That was his final gift to all of us.

Well played Matt. And thank you...

If you want to protect your family like Matt, we would love to help. Cholewka Law provides

comprehensive estate planning. Contact us at 480-497-3770 to schedule a conversation or visit www.gilbertlawoffice.com for estate planning information and videos.