LeRoy Q. Pia...

Our dear beloved Grandpa Pia passed away last night around 10:30 p.m. How bittersweet we feel towards his passing. We know he is in a better place, but our hearts are empty and saddened. Grandpa was a wonderful man. Born in 1918 to wonderful parents. He was raised during the great depression and worked with his family running a local bakery. Grandpa's job was to go door to door selling their baked goods to all the neighbors. They had to rise every morning at 4:00 a.m. to meet their daily demands. They later opened a Pizzeria. Grandpa served a full time mission, for the LDS church, in Brazil and his companion was Elder Faust. He met his lovely wife, Vovo and decided to stay a few extra years and get to know her. Once they were married, they came back to Utah, where Grandpa received a Master's in Business and accounting at the U. He then proceeded to open and run the largest music Academy in Salt Lake City. He taught Accordion to thousands of children over the years. He has left behind a wonderful legacy. We love him and will miss him tremendously. This picture of Grandpa and Joe was taken a few years ago while on a trip to Brazil. This is Rio...isn't it glorious?Joe and I decided to take the day off, hang out and reminisce of all the great times we've had with Grandpa. Joe was asked to speak at the funeral, so we talked and discussed different events he could relay to family and friends.

We first went to lunch at "The Parks Cafe". This is a great little neighborhood cafe with excellent omelets.Next, we crossed the street and hung out at Liberty Park with Hazel. She was a little nervous around the ducks, especially when they ate out of her hand.This picture cracks me up! Hazel is trying to smile for the camera while posing, but petrified a duck might nip her. Such a peaceful, beautiful place to hang out. I'd forgotten what a magnificent place this is. Hazel Pia...I've never seen her act shy! There is nothing better than being in the presence of a little child, to help brighten your day. Hazel helped us smile and remember how blessed we are to be her parents.
We will truly miss Grandpa LeRoy. We are glad he was able to be with us for so many great years. Also, Happy Birthday to you. Vovo! We want you to know how much we love and admire you. This video was taken last week at the hospital. Hazel had a special love for grandpa. This is her reading a story, she wrote and colored, to Grandpa. It is priceless...