Happy 85th birthday, Tony Houben!

85 years ago, Antoon Houben, known as Tony throughout his life, was born in Limberg, Netherlands.

I don't have any baby photos of him, but here he is on top of the family car, around 3 years old.

He passed away last August 2012, so didn't get to celebrate his birthday here on earth.

I wonder if they celebrate birthdays in Heaven? I've often wondered that.

I still miss him so very much and I often think of him. It doesn't feel like he is really gone. I remember his laugh, his twinkling eyes, his warm smile, and his great bear hugs with fondness. The odd thing is that is son, Robert who is my hubby, looks and acts so much like him which I guess is why I think so much of Tony!

Tony Houben as a Scout in Nazi Germany! He put on his uniform to take the photo; he could have been sent to a concentration camp if he was caught. He had quite the pluck and courage in those WWII days. I loved the stories he told of how he sabotaged the Nazi's vehicles one time. I'll have to write the stories out some day soon. 

Dear Tony on his 80th birthday. I made him a special cake using Splenda, as he had diabetes. 

He liked it, but he enjoyed the Tim Bits donuts I'd got for the rest of the family much better. Tee hee...I'm glad I have so many fond memories of him. He was a great father-in-law.