Kyle Grosz

December 28, 2005

When my brother shed the physical being that housed his spirit, I realized that I did not know my brother’s beliefs. Though I do know a little about Kyle that tells so much.

I knew Kyle growing up in Louisiana. I was the little brother that tagged along. As Kyle reminded me not so long ago, as kids, we all loved climbing trees. Kyle could go higher and farther out on the branches than I could. One day he fell and injured his arm. With some prodding, he went to school the next day (he was always much more diligent about school). When he came home it was discovered that his arm was broken and he was in a cast for several weeks. He endured pain without complaint.

I knew Kyle growing up in New Jersey. I was the little brother who tagged along; at least for awhile. Eventually, Kyle was the older brother who provided transportation for me and my friends to dinner when our parents were out and later, on dates before I could drive. I also remember Kyle lifting weights in the garage during the freezing winter and training for track and field. He was never the most gifted athlete; however he was probably one of the most determined. He was there to help and served as a role model, even though we took different paths as we grew up.
Kyle went off to college and, with a detour in the Army, started his most successful career and formed his own family with Ann. For many years we enjoyed yearly visits with our parents.

I grew to know Kyle more when my Father was sick and dying. We worked together to put Dad’s affairs in order and help Mom with the transition. Our communication increased and for that I am very grateful. I became aware of how Kyle cared, helped and counseled many people throughout his life.

And finally, I knew Kyle as he fought for his life. When we were at my sister, Kris, I am thankful that I was able to share some of the joy after he and Ann won the first round against cancer. We all witnessed the love between Ann and Kyle at that time and it has left a lasting impression. Even when Kyle was in great pain and discomfort, on my last visit with him, he still knew that the 2002 Pinot Noir that was two feet off the ground on the left side of his wine cellar would be the perfect choice to go with the mushroom risotto we were having that night. Kyle and Ann’s hospitality, as we were experiencing once again, was wonderful.

I do not know what my brother’s beliefs were, except that he endured pain without complaint, he cared and helped others and he pursued everything he focused on with passion. After all, it was his actions that defined him.

~ G. Kurt Grosz (MHS 67)