Jules first came to my attention well before I knew I would marry his son. He was a well-known figure at the Downers Grove Swim and Racquet club and one couldn’t help but notice his spirited attitude on the tennis court, “Jesus Christ Anja, get the ball.”

Jules was a loving, supportive and extremely generous father-in-law. From the moment I joined the family, he truly treated me as a daughter. He never forgot a birthday, mother’s day or any important occasion. You could count on Jules to plan ahead. He died on March 1st, the day before my birthday……but I had his card and gift in hand several weeks in advance. If it was July, Jules felt a sense of urgency to plan his annual Thanksgiving trip to our house in Houston. And in November, by God, he wasn’t leaving Houston until all the Christmas presents were ordered and the family summer vacation plans were underway. While his intensity sometimes clashed with our more relaxed approach to planning, we always knew that we could count on Jules to keep us on track. I think we are all going to feel a little – no, a lot lost without his guidance. We also knew that his intensity came for a place of deep passion and caring. Jules wanted things done, done right and done early because he wanted to make sure we had the best in life.

Because of Jules’ generosity, we have enjoyed travel to Europe, Mexico, a Colorado Dude Ranch and Cape Cod. Jules introduced me to fine cuisine and wine. We shared a special bond over gourmet food and wine and I knew that my glass would never be empty in his presence.

Jules was also a dedicated grandfather. My mother often talks about the day that Megan was born in North Carolina. He showed up at their house in Downers Grove with champagne and cigars and insisted on watching the video of his new grandchild multiple times. He was at the airport with flowers and balloons when we stepped off the plane from China was Emily. He faithfully attend grandparents day at the Post Oak School every November. He flew to Houston to watch Megan in her first lead role in a local theater production and he was in attendance at her 8th grade graduation last year. He has been a devoted follower of Emily’s gymnastics accomplishments. He bought Megan her first flute and couldn’t wait to upgrade her to a new model when she became a more serious player. I know he was equally interested in his grandson’s activities as well. My children have been privileged to have had such a grandfather - “Opa” - as Jules in their lives. It saddens me to know that he will not be present for additional milestones in their lives. Our Thanksgiving table will feel very empty this year without his presence. But I know that his memory will live on in the songs, flips and all pursuits of excellence that his grandchildren undertake.