Update: Katella water polo coach Grafton Weiss, 49, dies
November 29th, 2008, 4:04 pm · · posted by DAN ALBANO, ocvarsity.com
In a photo taken Friday, Grafton Weiss, second from left, is shown with OJ Vazquez, left, Dave Mikesell and Mustafa Hassan, right. Photo courtesy of Michelle Van Horne
Katella boys water polo coach Grafton Weiss died from an apparent heart attack Saturday morning, just one week after helping guide the Knights to their first CIF-Southern Section title.
(Update Dec 2: Cause of death determined for Grafton Weiss.)
Katella principal Jason Allemann said he spoke with an emergency medical service supervisor who said that Weiss, 49, appeared to have suffered a fatal heart attack.
“According to the (emergency medical service) team, they did everything they could (to save him),” Allemann said.
An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday, said Larry Esslinger, a supervising deputy coroner for Orange County.
Weiss coached Katella during two matches Friday at the Southern Section Masters tournament. The Knights qualified by capturing the Division VII title on Nov. 22.
“He was there and he was happy,” Katella co-coach Dave Mikesell said of Weiss. “Everything was fine.”
Katella lost twice Friday and was eliminated but the Knights’ final match against Servite was special for Weiss. While coaching at Magnolia, Weiss coached Servite coach Mustafa Hassan. At Katella, Weiss coached Servite assistant OJ Vazquez.
“It was the perfect day,” Mikesell said. “He (Weiss) is the greatest guy I’ve meet in this sport. … Heart of gold.”
Weiss’ son, Garrett, was the lone senior starter for Katella, which went 22-11 this season. In the Division VII final, the Empire League champions defeated league rival Valencia, 7-1, to become the first boys water polo from the Anaheim Union High School District team to capture a Southern Section title.
Weiss started coaching water polo at Katella in 1993. He also was a science teacher at Katella.
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Regarding Coach Weiss. He took this Polo team from nothing to something. He felt good this year about our chances. Us parents worked with him through think and thin to raise money for equipment etc for these boys. Grafton couldnt of been more happy. He was a good man and a pleasure to work with. I never minded donating my time and giving donations knowing that Grafton appreciated anything done for his team. God Bless His Family. God Bless the Kids at the hospital that cried all afternoon. Bless his team,friends,co workers. He will definately be missed by all.
KATELLA HI DIV. VII CIF CHAMPS. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND DO IT AGAIN NEXT YEAR FOR COACH WEISS
GO KNIGHTS !!!!!!
Grafton was a class coach. When we coached against each other in the 90′s, he had his teams well prepared and ready to play. We always had fun together and we enjoyed swim season when we could relax more and just visit. He loved talking about his family and he always had something positive to share with his teams. When he lost several players from his 96 squad, he taught the other players to be resilient and to over come adversity. I always admired him for his love of the game, his athletes and mostly his family! You’ll be missed! Our prayers are with you and your family!
I had the privledge and honor to call Grafton Weiss for the last 20+ years….FRIEND. A good hearted man that always put his family, students and friends needs above his own. A true “Family Man” Grafton often spoke proudly of his children and how fortunate he was to have a caring,understanding and loving wife. Anyone that ever met Grafton walked away a better person. This is truly a sad day for everyone that knew Grafton and even sadder for those that never had the chance to meet him. God Bless you and your family and you’ll be in my prayers always!!
We have been friends to Grafton for many years. We have seen him touch the hearts and lives of many around him. Many things about Grafton were good. Living his life to the fullest was good. Being there for others was good. Being a good listener, giving encouragement, and advice was good. Giving the opportunity for students to learn and understand science was good. Coaching, being a positive role model, and believing in his team which brought Katella High’s waterpolo team to become CIF champions was good. Serving and participating on our Holy Cross Lutheran Church on many church and school boards, and for functions were good. But the best thing he did good was loving his wife, raising a beautiful family, and keeping his faith in Christ our Lord.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Grafton, Mindy, Kaila, Garrett, and their families.
We will miss you, Grafton.
I know Grafton through his amazing wife as she is my daughter’s preschool teacher. I know him through a side other than teaching and coaching and have truly become a better person because of Grafton and his family. He was so involved with Ms. Mindy’s class and he could never hold back his genuine care and love for those little ones. His smile when he saw my girls was priceless and of course we always talked a little water polo on the side. He and Mindy are the family that we try to emulate–their genuine love for people and life–I have so much respect for this family and am still in shock with this news. We all have a very special guardian angel above. Plain and simple, an AMAZING MAN–Mindy, Kaila and Garrett, no words can help at this time, but know there are so many loving arms around you. Thank you for letting your dad change all our lives for the better!!!
He was a great coach. I was honored to have been on his team. I know he will be missed greatly by those that had the pleasure of knowing him. I speak for all when I say that he was one of the best people in this entire world. He has touched my life and everyone else he has known. To Garret, I’m truley sorry and I know me and you weren’t best friends but from the bottom of my heart I’m sorry. Make sure your family knows that.
It’s great to read the support for Grafton. Nice job, Coach Ashe!
Grafton really was a good man and excellent coach.
I probably covered him for the first time in 1996 and remember being impressed as his Katella team nearly upset Laguna Beach in a first-round playoff match.
Katella? Yes, the Knights surprised me that day. Katella and Laguna had another good playoff match in ’98.
I stayed in touch with Weiss over the years. He had some very tough seasons at Katella. Sometimes he didn’t have the talent; sometimes he just didn’t have the numbers.
But Grafton was always the same. Easy going, friendly, doing the best he could.
This season, the Knights were talented and were winning a ton of games. Grafton was still the same Grafton.
I think that photo from Masters on Friday said a lot of about Grafton’s talent, too. There he was with two of his ex-players (Vazquez, Hassan) who have become two very good coaches. Both are a credit to Weiss.
Grafton was such a mild-mannered man, and as it turned out, he was a very good mix with the outward intensity of Mikesell.
The water polo community certainly lost a very good coach and classy guy.
And while it’s hard to find perspective so soon, the high school game in Orange County was blessed to have Grafton for as long as it did. And Grafton was blessed to experience that championship with Katella and his son. That was a sweet day that will stand the test of time.
Those he met in his life always became better citizens of this world. You will be missed and not forgotten. God bless you in your voyage to the after life and may you be connected one day with your beautiful family.
I watched Grafton and his team win their CIF championships just last week.
Before the game I walked up to Grafton, grabbed him by the shoulder and wished him luck, and told him they would win.
After the game I was fortunate enough to have been able to see him one last time, with tears of joy in his eyes, and talk to him – and thank him for everything he did for me. He was a pillar of support in my life while I was changing from a boy to a young man.
I met Grafton in in 1985 when I begun attending Magnolia High School. I had transferred from private school and didn’t really know anyone. I also had very little confidence – growing up was rough for me.
I had planned to play basketball and baseball but ended up playing water polo for the first semester – before the basketball season started.
Like most, I’d never played water polo or swam much for that matter – and man, water polo was HARD – but he made it special and fun!
So when basketball season rolled around I met their coach – and honestly, I didn’t care for the guy or the way he seemed to talk down to his players. Maybe that’s what he thought it took to motivate them.
But it didnt’ feel good to me because I had become accustomed to something very different with Grafton. He motivated his players with kindness, focus, determination and genuine compassion. We weren’t just a player – we were part of something more and welcomed into it.
So I found myself back in the water, waiting for baseball season to start.
Why anyone would kill time swimming laps I don’t know, but we just did it to stay part of that connectedness.
Maybe it was the fact that being around Grafton was something special – it filled gaps that we didn’t know we had, we were accepted, we were listed to and we were cared about. We were immediately part of something special – we were part of his life and his team. And for me he helped me find something I was actually pretty OK at.
In the last 24 hours I’ve talked to a lot of alumni and many have said he was like a father to them – and in some cases more of a father than we had at home at the time.
He taught us how to be responsible. He shaped us into men and women. He helped us understand what confidence is and how to find it. He showed us how to win gracefully. He forged us all into people who are now more caring than if we’d never been influenced by him.
Grafton really made a huge difference in so many of our lives and none of us would be the same today had he not been a part of our lives.
And now, 20 years later, his alumni was still cheering him on last week at the game and in their hearts.
Think about that for a second… Isn’t in incredibly special when 20 years later they come back to watch, share and cheer for him and his team? Isn’t it special that 20 years later we can share a victory and still feel filled by his happiness and enthusiasm?
And that’s what Grafton allowed us to do. He generously gave us so much – but he didn’t have to give up anything to do it because it was just there to give.
We all wish we could wake up and have him back.
Recently I got back in the water – because it gives me the same feelings I had when I swam for Grafton. I feel his love. Many times I’ve imagined him on the deck calling out the sets and pushing me to be better. Now I know he will be there with me – and all of us. Every time we jump into the water he’ll be there.
Mindy and the kids. We are so proud to have been a part of your lives – even if it was just a sliver. We are deeply saddened by your loss and we are feeling this together with you.
Please let us know anything we can do to help you and your family – because we are here for you and have much debt and gratitude to repay.
With Love,
John Kirker & Family
I will miss Grafton greatly. He always had advise and kind words for me and my team. As Coach Ashe said, I especially enjoyed swim season where we could just chat and enjoy the meet. In a profession of egos, Grafton was truly a humble man. Why do the good ones seem to go so early?
No coach deserved that championship more than Grafton. He had put in so much time for so many years and given so much of himself. In addition, he was probably the nicest man in high school water polo. It was a pleasure of mine to know him and I appreciate all the things he did for his players and other coaches.
To win the Championship is incredible, to win it with family is indescribable with words. This puts Polo, and all other sports into perspective. Weiss brought home a championship, but it sounds like he left a legacy. That is bigger than any championship. Prayers and Thoughts to the Weiss Family.
Grafton. His name is as original as he was unique. My husband and I always viewed him as the keel of the boat guiding the boys through tough challenges that they faced both in the water and out on campus. Daily the boys meet in his room, morning to say hi and chat about the day dropping off their lunches, then for lunch …over-packing the microwave, swapping food and stories, and then again afternoons spent in the pool. Grafton was a teacher, a coach, a mentor, and a friend with all of the kids that he spent time with. We had the privilege to have him mentor and coach both my daughter and son in water polo. Grafton will be missed greatly. While we lost a teacher, coach, friend and mentor, we all have gained an angel to watch over us.
We are so grateful that our boys were able to win CIF with a man who was so deserving. The Katella Knights will be back next year to prove that the talents taught by Grafton remain and will continue on.
Coach Weiss was a mentor to all of us playing for him! He took a group of young kids at Katella and made them men. We had some good times and bad times in my 4 years at Katella. I don’t think that we could have gotten through the 1995 season without him. Losing your friends was tough as a teenager, but Coach was there for us through all of it……. You will be missed Coach. There are no words that can describe how much you meant to all of us…….
i am still in shock – the world has lost an awesome man. the only blessing in this is knowing he was a godly man and is at home with the Lprd. i will pray daily for his wife, son , daughter, sister, mom and the rest of his family.
Coach was an inspiration to many of us when our Senior year began with tragedy. He taught us to continue to move forward but not forget and he was there for us through all of it … the good and the bad. He was a coach that took care of his athletes and made us all better people for the future. I can only hope he realized how much he was loved and now will be so deeply missed.
Love you and miss you Coach.
the world will miss this awesome man. the only blessing is he was a Godly man and is at home wwith the Lord. i will pray daily for his family to have the strength to make it thru this time.
I have known Grafton for some 25 years. He, Mindy and I worked for Szabo foods at Anaheim stadium during the early 80′s. The friendship continued over the years with softball tournaments, lots of “phone calls”, and water polo. Over that time two things stand out more than anything else is his consistent character and devotion to his family, friends and all the lives that he touched; he will be truly and sorely missed.
Mindy, Brenda and my prayers and thoughts are with you, Kaila, and Garrett.
Lord’s Peace and Blessings
As many have already mentioned, Grafton made a huge impression on me as a teenager. I played for him from ’90-’92 at Magnolia. I was one of only a few girls, nervous, to be playing a boys sport. But Grafton didn’t treat us any different. He made us work just as hard and always pushed us to be better. I believe he saw the potential in everyone and encouraged them in the best way to achieve the best that was within them. He set high standards and led a team of boys and girls with integrity. There are so many times in my life that I’ve thought of Grafton and had this crazy desire to make him proud. I feel like I still push myself to be better because he always knew I could.
I am so sad to hear of his passing and add my sincerest condolences to his family. Grafton was an amazing coach, and a great man.
The Katella school-community lost an incredible man. If our teachers, students and other staff take a little piece of what Grafton offered to us, we will be better people and our world will be a better place. Thanks for guiding and nurturing our students, thanks for teaching our athletes how to win with dignity and honor. You and your teams were champions many a time before last weekend. Thanks Mr. Weiss…thanks coach.
I couldn’t believe this when I heard it. I was on the girls’ team and wasn’t extremely close to Weiss, but I knew he was a great coach and took care of his team. He has so much patience and would always give it his all to see his team do well, and they did this year. I never got a chance to congradulate them this year for being CIF champs; they did a wonderful job this season. I’m glad. I’m so sorry to the Weiss family, including Garrett who is a close friend of mine I haven’t seen for so long. I’m sorry for your loss, but he left behind a legacy and brought the team up. He will always be remembered for that…
A great loss to the waterpolo community. A true Gentleman in the pool deck and his players, friends and most importantly his family will miss him.
God Bless
I, like those who have previously written, will miss Grafton. He
was one of the unsung water polo coaches in Orange County who
don’t get the publicity of those at the major schools, but he had
a postive affect on those who knew him. It was great to see
Katella honored with a CIF title after all these years. It couldn’t
have happened to a nicer coach. Every time I refereed at
Katella, he was glad to see me and we enjoyed conversation
between games. He was not only a fine teacher to those at
Katella, but a greater man.
Coach Weiss was a great coach that explained waterpolo to me in great depth. He was a great role model and person.
To Grarrett and family, I am very sorry my prayers are with you.
God bless
Josh Mendez
Grafton was a good friend and am shocked at his passing, i loved that young man as everyone did. I coached against Grafton, and have ref’d a bunch of his games and swim meets and when i go to Katella this yr for swim meets it will be with heavy heart. My prayers are with all that are hurt by this and especially his family
Grafton was my good friend and am shocked that he is gone from us. He was a special person to all who knew him. I coached against him, refe’d his waterpolo games and swim meets. When i go for a swim meet this yr at Katella it will be with a heavy heart knowing who i will not see. I thank the lord for letting us have him for a while. My prayers, thoughts, sympathy goes out to his family and all who are hurt by this tragedy
I am truly saddended by the news about Grafton. I coached against Grafton over a 13 year period and I can honestly say that one of my favorite memories over the years was having the opportunity to play Katella. Not because I looked forward to the actual game, but that I would have an opportunity to catch up with Grafton. I always looked forward to coming on the deck and getting the handshake and the question ” How are you doing?”. After sharing stories about faith and family, we typically realized our teams were already lined up and we never got around to talking polo. We did have some great games where his teams were always prepared and disciplined but I will remember Grafton as a friend that was a great listener and a man that loved and cared for his family, player and friends. I will miss him greatly.
I had the honor and great fortune to have been coached by Grafton at Magnolia High… He taught us all not only how to succeed in water polo but also in life… In the twenty one years since I left Magnolia I have often thought about some of those lessons and moments he shared with me and the others under is care… My deepest sympathy to his family and all who will feel this loss…
Through thick and thin Grafton, the gentle man, never altered his demeanor. He was an incredible asset to our athletic department. During that most tragic time in ’95-’96, Grafton’s inner and outer strength got us all through it. Mindy, Kaila, and Garrett….be strong. My prayers are with you.
We would like to give our respects to the WEISS FAMILY. A great loss to the sport of WaterPolo. Coach Weiss you truely are #1. We’ll all miss that humble man they call Coach Weiss. GOD BLESS……..
grafton is surely going to be missed. he was a wonderful husband and father too.it was a shock as he was too young to leave us.we all send our prayerswe all sent our love and god bless you all
Mr.Weiss was great man made the game fun all players only play for one year just know him was greatest thing made me better person and look at water pole different God be with you and your family and you’ll be in my prayers always!!
I do not think I can say anymore than has been said about Grafton. But if you want to know how much a man like Grafton touch just one family. My first meeting with Grafton was on Western’s pool deck 1979. He was a coach for Western and I played for Magnolia high. Early in the 80′s Grafton coach my wife JoLene and Her niece at Magnolia.
we started your family young. In 1996 Grafton called me from Katella and ask if I had a son named Brandon who is playing polo. That group of boys made CIF two year in a row. After Brandon it was Ashley’s turn. and then Catie even if Grafton was not the girls coach. He was always there on the pool deck. And I am so very glad to see my son Dillon and the rest of the boys(2008 CIF Champions) had the chance to meet and learn from this fine man who cares for young men and women.
I pray for Mindy and her family . I what Garrett and his sister to know that your father lives on, in all of those he taught , touched, and listened too.I think he will be know in the Water polo world as the finest coach on the pool deck. I want to thank Mindy and her kids for sharing someone who means so much to them, with us. God bless And we are there for you.
Frank Avila & family
Your spirit is shinning so BRIGHT! You will be greatly missed & never forgotten.. REST IN PEACE!
We would like to give our respects to The Weiss Family. You are all in our prayers. I had the pleasure of meeting Grafton only a few times; although I learned more about him through his sister, nephew, & parents over the years. He was a wonderful husband, father, man, and mentor to many. He will be truly be missed by those of us left here on Earth. Our Savior in Heaven is so lucky to have such a wonderful lamb at His side.
Mr.Weiss, coach weiss my favorite teacher ! my second period teacher. The last person i saw before thanksgiving break, with full expectations to see him this following monday, a heartbreaking reality.He will be very missed and forever loved, never forgotten.
Grafton’s presents was such that everyone who knew him respected him for the way he coached his teams. He was one of the hardest working coaches I ever knew and did this not with a loud voice but by talking quitely to his players. He was a true gentleman and will be missed. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
Doc Rishel
I am shy of words to emphasize the impact someone like Coach Weiss could have on an individual! I was honored with the opportunity of being coached by him, and is needless to say that he left the reputation of an excellent human being! Always caring, always passionate, btu most importantly always Grafton Weiss!!!!! He will forever live on, for his legacy will remain! My most sincere condolences to his family, but know that they are not alone, they have love around them! You will live on Coach Weiss! -Love William Ramirez
It has been a pleaure and an honor to have had two of our sons play water polo under Coach Weiss. Both of my boys benefited by his wisdom, guidance, and love for the game. He took my boys on an unforgettable journey. He taught my older son that win or lose all his players were winners out of water as well as in the water. Even when we were lacking numbers and in rebuilding stages his great attitude, kindness and persistance rubbed off on his players. He took my younger son on an incredible journey for the last three years to our first CIF championship. What a journey it was. He took our team and built them into not only fine water players but wonderful human beings and to believe in themselves. All of Coach Weiss’ players have benefited by having him in their lives. We feel truly blessed. Coach Weiss thank you for all that you have instilled and all the lives you have touched. You will be missed by all.
The Taylor Family
I never really knew Coach Grafton but I had a chance to play against his teams when I played in HS. I clearly remember how he intereracted with his players and the respect and admiration players had for him. Although he never coached me I always looked up to his coaching philosophy and followed his team and knew they would one day reach the level of success they did this year. I believe Coach Grafton is a big reason for the success Central and North OC has enjoyed in Water Polo recently. To all the new/newer coaches out there: read the comments on this blog and you will clearly notice the effect Truly Great Coaching has on players, parents, and the community at large. If you want to achieve greatness in coaching….learn from the examples Coach Grafton has left. I believe Coach Grafton was not only a coach to his players but a coach and role model to other coaches as well.
May God Bless Coach Grafton and the Grafton family.
I can’t express how saddened I am by Grafton’s passing. I grew up with Grafton and played water polo and swam with him. He was part of my extented family. Sleep overs at his house with all the ’72 Olympics stuff on the walls, late nights playing pinball in our restuarant after closing and our coming of age cross country drive the summer of ’76, just two 16 year old kids on the road and when he went to UCI all the time I spent just hanging out with him and his College friends on campus. He was a big part of my youth and I will never forget him and how much he enriched my life.
It was also a great pleasure to watched him go from a player to a coach and the skills he displayed as a player and as a man, became his strength as a coach. He was respectful, technical and a great competitor. My daughter has been playing polo for the past 4 years and I often run into coaches and referee’s that know Grafton. Everyone of them speak of him with respect as a coach and as a person. The Water Polo community has lost a great man. And I have lost a friend
My heart and my prayers go out to Mindy, Kaila and Garrett
The Lippiatt Family
Mindy and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. I can’t imagine what you are going through ..May God comfort you and give you strength during this time .. You are in my thoughts and prayers.. I wish I could be there to give you a hug..
Your cousin,( Vicki) Aunt Betty’s daugther..God bless you and your family…
I only knew Grafton indirectly- through one of his best Friends and fellow coaches Big Jin A.! But reading the love from all parts of Southern California, I am gladdened while I am saddened. Clearly this was a special man. Thinking of how he died and how many people felt their relationship with him sadly unfinished.
I will miss him too. Never got to meet the guy in all those great and funny stories his buddies tell. Never got to see his coaching style, which I was told was the best to emulate. But I know that he has left a mark on lives all over the southland, so however unfairly cut short, his life has had a level of meaning few will attain.
May you rest in peace, Grafton. And may your family grow only stronger having known you. I hope that I will be one tenth the man/husband/coach you obviously were!
I’ve debated back and forth on whether I should leave a comment or not. Everything that needs to be said about Grafton has been said. I met him 21 years ago as a 90 pound weakling whose Speedos were two sizes too big. His special gift was that he taught by not teaching. All you had to do was watch and listen. When I graduated in ’91, he asked me to coach with him what was during his final year at Magnolia in ’93. When we arrived at Katella together, we wondered what we had gotten ourselves into. Magnolia pummeled Katella on a regualr basis and here we were, expected to turn some “has been” athletes and “never will be’s” into contenders. Grafton did it. As Mike Ashe stated earlier, we hated El Dorado and everything they stood for…but we loved playing them and we loved coaching against them. A few epic overtimes and 1-point games later, Grafton was able to turn those kids into league champions. It wasn’t by yelling or spitting or jumping up and down and beating on his chest; it was by preparation and psyching yourself up for big games and words of encouragement during the team huddles. During my four years at Magnolia, Grafton was like a father to me. During those 5 amazing years that I was able to coach with him at Katella, he was my mentor and my friend…and he was still my coach. I learned just by watching. I learned by emmulating. I learned as we smoked cigars on a balcony in Hawaii, with Mustafa Hassan, and as we sat on countless bus rides to and from all those pools. He touched my life in many ways, as he touched the lives of countless others. The waterpolo community is better for having had Grafton; Katella high school was better for having had Mr. Weiss; 30 years of alumni from Western, Magnolia and Katella are better for having had coach. Now, it’s the Lord’s turn to have him.
I am incredibly sad and I miss my dear friend…
I am so sorry Mindy for your loss. I am in total shock!! You, Garrett, and Kaila and your new addition to the family are in my prayers..
((hug))
I had the honor of being a teammate of Grafton’s at Western High School and coached against him for many years while I was at Brea Olinda and he was at Western and then Magnolia and his first year at Katella, while he was a very creative offensive coach I leaned towards the defensive side and the chess matches we had over a 10 year period were the highlights of my coaching career. We also worked at Anaheim Stadium together as hawkers during high school and were life long friends and golf buddies and I can not put into words how much I will miss him.
My heart goes out to Mindy, Kaila and Garrett
I was very saddened to receive the call informing me of Grafton’s passing. As a kid, Grafton, his sister, my sister and I all played together – cousins having fun at “grandma’s.” while I didn’t know Grafton as an adult or his wife and kids, I sure learned a lot from those of you around him who shared their love and stories of inspiration – thank you. Grafton and his entire family will forever be in my prayers. God Bless.
Love,
Janna
Andy called me and gave me the sad news. Now that I have had time to think about that time and reading the comments here I felt I should say my “Goodbye”. I like many others met Grafton at the pool. I don’t remember what made me decide to go try-out for swimming. I think it was girls but anyway I walked to the pool and Grafton was in the water swimming, which became a more rare occurance as time went on if I remember right. I told him I was there to try-out for the swim team. He said, “Can you swim?” I said, “Yes” and he said, “Okay you are on the team.” I was so jazzed to be a part of that team at Magnolia during 85-89. John detailed the extent of how Grafton touched our lives. I will simply second that and add how great it was to work at Anaheim Stadium those years and how thankful I am of Grafton for getting my weak ass into shape by the third year so much so that I knew I could beat Marine Corps bootcamp. Thanks Grafton you will be missed!
I remember watching Grafton take this picture. I just can’t believe he is gone. You could tell how proud he was of the boys and winning the CIF championship. I first met Grafton at Magnolia where I went to school. Last year he was my son’s coach. When I first found out he was the coach at Katella I told my son that he was so lucky to have Grafton as a coach. He was an amazing person. He always made you feel important. My son and I are so lucky to have known him. We will never forget you. Our heart goes out to the Weiss family.
“Gentlemen” that was his respectful way to get the attention of his noisy chattering players. It was 1996, I was 17 and had now endure the painful loss of my mother and father at age 15. After he found out the passing of my mother Mr Grafton Weiss approached me and gave me a hug and said nothing, his hug ment more than anything, I knew he cared.
Thank you coach, you made a difference in my life, you reminded me by example that it all starts with respecting others and my self.
Services info from Wil Dee from Vicky:
Holy Cross Lutheran at 4321 Cerritos Ave in Cypress
Viewing is Friday December 5th 10am- 9pm
Service is Saturday December 6th at 10am
Burial service is at Forest Lawn in Cypress 11:30am – 12:15pm
Wake is back at Holy Cross after burial service
Coach Weiss was sucha respectable and kind man i have ever met in my life i was so glad to have met him through being my brothers devin and neals coach for waterpolo even though i did not play on his team i always knew him as the coach walking on the pool deck makeing sure everything was ok. I dont think i ever remember him bringing his kids down, he has such a great family and i want them to know that they will always be in my heart and in my preyers as for weiss though i didnt know him as well as i should of from what i did know of he was an amazeing guy and pretty much the best waterpolo coach i had ever met in my life there coule be no one else to take his place as the greatest waterpolo coach!!!!!!
A week ago I was at the Servite v Mater Dei game. My son OJ being the asst. coach to Mus for Servite. I had a chance to talk to Coach Jav .. he said it was so exciting for so many players and coaches (all of them handpicked by Grafton) that came out to witness Katella’s win in CIF. He was so happy that he had been there to share in the excitement over the win for Grafton and the team. Now this…a week later. I enjoyed being involved in any way I could help when my niece and OJ were involved with Grafton’s teams at Katella, he always appreciated the parents helping in any way. He was funny, and always had a great story to tell. Never unkind, an all-around great coach and friend. I still can’t believe it.
The viewing will be Friday, December 05, 2008 from 10:00 am-9:00 pm.
Services will be Saturday, December 06, 2008 at 10:00 am.
Both will be held at: Holy Cross Lutheran Church
: 4321 Cerritos Ave.
Cypress, CA
Donations for a Water Polo Scholarship Fund in Grafton’s honor is being set up. Checks can be made to Katella High School
on memo line please write; Water Polo Scholarship Fund
OR
Holy Cross Church and School
The family and friends of Grafton appreciate all the wonderful thoughts, prayers and kindness that has been extended to them. Please continue to keep us in your prayers and thoughts.
My first year playing goalie..let alone Varsity.
Was because coach Weiss believed i could.
After it all we won CIF.
Im very grateful to have had Coach Weiss in my life.
I will never forget the memories, knowledge and stories he shared
with me and my team.
To Garett, Mikael, Kyla and MIndy
I love the man that tought me the game and you should all be proud of the great he has brought to us all.
I miss hiim dearly, but i know he’ll want us Knights to continue and win again next year.
Love and care always:
Dylan Peterson
I guess I come from a different point of view as to how I know Mr. Mindy
Being close friends with both Kaila and Garrett, I spent a lot of time over at their house and with their family.
I regret not ever telling him that I regarded him as a second dad and that I held him in the highest respect. He taught me many “little things” that I am so thankful for. I’m sad I never got to say Bye or I love you, but I know that he is in the best place watching us all.
I cannot give a different picture of who Weisser 1 was, but I can still emphasize what he meant to me. I was scared of Mr. Mindy for such a long time when I first bacame close with Kaila. I think it was his sanguine, quiet manner. Whatever it was, I was scared.
Then, one random day, I remember having some random conversation with him about nothing in particular and I began to see a side of him I’d never seen. He was a funny, caring, compassionate father, husband, coach, and mentor. Really, I don’t think I’ve met a man so positive about life in general ALL THE TIME. It was amazing to see the changes he made in people. Wow.
I think what I will miss most about Mr. Weiss is the nicknames he and I shared with both of our families: Mr. Mindy and the Weissers and the Kampers. What good times!
Mrs. Mindy, Kaila, and Garrett: Words cannot express the tragedy that has happened, but know that I am praying for you and thinking about you constantly. My deepest sympathies go out to you. I can already see you all emulating Mr. Mindy’s character, it makes my heart happy. Know that he is in heaven watching you all. I love you all so much.
Mikael: I have no idea what is going through your mind. I know you and Mr. Mindy got really close when you were here, and I think that is awesome. I’m praying for you and I want you to remember to stay strong through this time of grief. I love you, you’re rad.
For all of you…Remember Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
God is the only one who will never leave. He has a plan and a purpose for all of you and I believe with all my heart that this is part of His will to make you stronger in Him and for Him.
All my love,
MacKenzie Kampa
I have known Grafton for many years as a dedicated Servant of God at Holy Cross Lutheran Church ,who was always there for any job. His recent position was as our church Secretary,and was the best ever Husband and Father. We all loved him and our fervent prayers go out for his beautiful wife, Mindy, his sweet “kids” Kaila and Garrett, and their exchange student, Mikael. I shall be asking our Lord to give them MUCH comfort as they go through this time of unbelieveable sorrow.
I love them dearly and send my special Love and Hugs!
VERNA WiSHART
I have known the Weiss family for a long time.I grew up with Kaila and Garrett at church and school. I was fortunate enough to be at a lot of Katella’s water polo games to see such a great accomplishment especially with Garrett on the team.He was so proud of his team.There are so many good memories from pool parties,sleep overs, showing him how to play catch with my lacrosse stuff(he was pretty good at it), and just hanging out at the Weiss house.Mindy treats me like a second daughter.and i consider Grafton like a second father to me. He always took such an interest in what i was doing. He was always so nice and he taught me so much that i am so thankful for. he cared so much about his family and i still remember the look on his face when he was telling us about how Mindy and him met.I can never forget that look. He was so happy.He loved her so much. He was always so proud for his family.i still can’t believe it.I MISS HIM SO MUCH. i will be praying for the whole family,for healing,for comfort,for strength.
i love you Mindy, Kaila, Garrett, and Mikael.
Tonight I lit a candle and burnt incense for coach Weiss. From my heart I thank him for caring and for creating a safe and effective haven for the children. I thank him for all that he has given to our children. I am in gratitude. Thank you, Coach; have a safe journey Home.
I pray for Mrs Weiss and children for healing, comfort and peace. My deepest condolences to you.
In Love and LiGht
Lu-See Burnett
We were informed of Coach Weiss passing on Sunday morning, words alone cannot express our sorrow.
Our son played Water Polo for Coach Weiss for 2 seasons, in 2006 and 2007, his leadership has left an ever lasting empression on all of us. You just don’t forget the special people that cross your path through life.
I will always remember the conversations i had with him sharing stories of how we both played Water Polo in the mid 70′s.
Our condolences go to his wife and kids.
The O’Neill family
Over the past two years I have gotten to know the Weiss family pretty well. I became good friends with Kaila and Garrett through church. Whenever friends would go over to the Weiss house, Grafton and Mindy always treated us like family. Grafton would always joke around with us and we would always have a good time. Grafton was such a determined coach, im so glad CIF was won for him this year. I remember the look on his face when they won a game. He was so pround of everyone on the team for all their hard work. He always had a positive attitude about life. He wouldn’t dwell on the bad things, but concentrate on the better to come. I didn’t know Grafton as well as i would have liked to. I still can’t believe what happened. It all came too fast. But I grieve for the Weiss family and their heartache. I am praying for you all.
Garrett, Kaila, Mindy, Mikael
i love you guys
im praying for you all.
With all my love,
Clairese.
When I think of Grafton I think of the word family. He had a loving family at home with his wife and children, but Grafton’s family extended beyond that. He had a strong faith in God, and he had a solid church family. He had a family of friends that kept him laughing. He had a family of teachers, students, and players at Katella. He had a family in the water polo community. His family roots spread far beyond what he ever realized, and he touched many lives in such a positive manner. I will miss our conversations before and after school, and we have lost a dear member of our family. You are missed and you are loved.
I was lucky to coach with Grafton for 10 years at Magnolia High School. I’m not sure what can be said that hasn’t been said already. I learned so much from him. Not just about water polo, but about life. He was a great coach, a great man, and an extraordinary friend. My heart goes out to Mindy, Kaila and Garrett.
Garrett, you don’t know us but we remember you and your sister playing on deck while my children Nicholas and Sara played water polo for Katella. Your dad was a special man who knew how to coach each and every one of his players. We never heard him say an unkind word to any of his players, always words of encouragement. We are so very sad for you and your family. Let your faith in God help you as you learn to cope with this terrible loss. Weiss family you are in our prayers.
With love,
Jackie Donnelly
If you taught with him, you were encouraged.
If you were taught by him, you were enlightened.
If you coached against him, you were befriended.
If you were coached by him, you were a champion.
Grafton and I spent ten months together getting our Master’s degree. As a young teacher, coach and father, I was a sponge, taking in all of the advice he had from his experiences over the years. Though we didn’t spend much time talking about how each of our teams were, I looked forward to conversations about the classroom, family and the water polo community. His kindness and genuine actions portrayed what every man should be. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
I’m still in shock that Grafton is actually gone and it is a terrible lose.
He was a friend and coach to me for 27 years.He was my brother’s coach back when he coached at Western in the early 80′s.That is how i met him(i was 10 years old) and a big reason as to why i decided to play water polo.I will miss him greatly!!!!
My condolences go out to his family
Grafton everyone misses you. But it is not for us to figure out “why” you were taken away. That’s between you and God, and only between you guys. Judging from what everyone says, I believe your work on earth was done. What a wonderful way to leave, on top of your game and on top of life. Now God needs you and the heavens need you. They have no idea what an angel comes their way.
Anonymous-
Grafton,
I am writing you more for myself, but I hope you will indulge me.
My great fortune came when I moved to the Briar Oaks Condominiums in 1986 and first met a young couple working and going to college Mindy and Grafton Weiss. This was when you dreamed the dream you lived these past twenty two years.
I just wanted to thank you for blessing my family with Holy Cross Lutheran. I pray to my heavenly father that in death as in life, you are truely blessed, desperately missed and loved by all.
My prayers and faith and hope are all that support me now as I ponder
that we shall one day laugh and enjoy God’s love again.
Mindy, Garrett, Kaila, Mikael
I am sorry and speechless.
May God Bless you and keep you and may his blessings and countenance be upon you all, each and every day of your lives.
Even that I never meet you, I have heard that you were a great waterpolo coach and a great teacher. I will never have as a science teacher and that is kind of sad because I’ve heard a lot of good things about you. You were and will always be a Katella Knight and you will always be in all of the hearts of all Katella High School students and teachers. Rest in Peace Coach and teacher, Mr. Weiss.
Cam and I are so very deeply shocked and saddened. We love you Mindy. It’s hard for us to say your name without Grafton in the same breath. Mindy and Grafton – we go back to the early 80s. Our hearts are so very broken for you. But we know you can be strong. Grafton would expect that from you.
ok, here is a message, quoted from my baby sister, Tressy Brooks – she was hired by and worked with Grafton at Anaheim stadium this is her memory of him that I want you all to read about this very wonderful caring man….
“I am soo soo sorry about Grafton. He was such a good guy. I can’t believe it … he was so young! I remember he helped me get my job at Anaheim Stadium and he was always checking on me to make sure I was okay. He was with me the night my mustang was stolen from the employee parking lot and drove me up and down the aisles helping me look for it. Im sorry you are going through this hard time.”
We love you… All of you who loved Grafton. Be strong. And live each day, as if it were your last.
Hugs to you all,
Cece and Cam Clitheroe
2Cor. 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tibulations…” To the Weiss family, may you experience God’s comfort through this trying time as only He can bring. Condolenscensces to you and you will be kept in prayer.
I learned today of the tragic loss of Grafton. I met Grafton many years ago, I was the coach at Anaheim and had bitter rivalry games against his Magnolia Sentinals. Over a seven year period, I learned to respect his abilities and admiration he posessed to teach players not only water polo but how to achieve the most out of one’s abilities. Every person that had the opportunity to cross Grafton’s path knows that he was a man of great character. I had by the grace of God, about two weeks ago time for each of us to catch up on how our lifes had changed since we had last seen each other . You see I had left coaching ten years past and seldom had a chance to watch a water polo game, but I was working on the roof of the gym at Katella and a tournament was ongoing. I sat on the bench and Grafton came by and we chatted till his team had to play. I loved the moment and will always treasure all the times we had spent together. Like all coaches , we dream of winning the championship, most do it for all the wrong reasons, but Grafton has inspired players and even coaches that it is not always winning but the path you take, the experiences you learn and the graciousness of being a champion. I would have liked to congratulated him for Katella’s recent CIF championship, I knew it was just a matter of time. I will miss Grafton and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
The news of Grafton’s sudden death is still a shock.. I spent many years sitting on the benches at the pool deck while Grafton coached Tara in swim and Pete in water polo. He will be remembered for his kindness and dedication to the Katella Aquatics. Our prayers will be with Mindy, Garrett, Kaila and all his family and friends. God Bless.
Teachers and coaches come in all shapes and sizes.
Lessons can be taught in many different ways.
Grafton did it the same way all the great ones do, with tremendous sincerity and authenticity.
In one way Grafton was a contradiction, because the clothes he wore and the demeanor he exuded was casual and unassuming. However, Grafton was anything but a slacker. In fact, he was an absolute stand out in his devotion to students, athletes, friends and family.
Mostly Grafton was a rock. A guy that it might take a while to get to know, but someone you look forward to meeting up with and getting to know better. It was his lack of contradiction that made Grafton such a great guy. What you saw is what you got.
Grafton goes out as a celebrated CIF championship coach and nobody deserves it more. But, I will remember Grafton as the guy who never gave up on his kids even if they were in last place. I’ll never forget how he stuck his neck out for a junior varsity swimmer who became ineligible due to grades. Grafton met with that young man all quarter and kept the hope of swimming as a motivator for improvement in his classes. This was for an average swimmer on a last place JV team! How easy would it have been to give up on that kid? Well, Grafton didn’t and it paid off because that student has not only remained eligible, but is now a CIF champion.
While on earth, Grafton made us all a little better. Now he can rest in heaven and it’s up to us to carry on with his work. Like Grafton, we can volunteer more, we can believe in the kids nobody else will and we can be better friends to each other.
Grafton was one of the many “good guys” in the sport of water polo. I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with him many times in the last 20+ years and always walked away with a smile. The world needs more like Grafton who was on this earth way too short a stay.
Grafton, I was looking forward to calling you a congratulating you on the title. You went out how you lived. A CHAMPION. You will be missed.
I can’t hardly believe it!! It saddens me deeply that this happened to such a wonderful man, his family and friends that love him. I can’t imagine how much he will be missed by all that were the closest to him. I can only wish I had recent memories as you all have. I will miss my Coach deeply!
Varsity Water Polo 1989 Magnolia High
Barbara
Coach Weiss was a great man – the best coach I’ve had in my life in any sport. He loved the game of water polo and he loved his players. Most authority figures in high school are mistrusted by their students or players, but Grafton was an exception. I knew I could always go to him with anything on my mind and he would listen.
I will never forget my last moment with him. I was able to enjoy seeing him win CIF with my old high school. Afterwards, I went to congratulate him. Having only seen him a handful of times since high school, I went to shake his hand. He said, “Get that outta here,” and gave me a giant hug. I can’t think of a more fitting way to describe him than that.
I offer my condolences to his family. Grafton was an amazing person, and I know Mindy, Garrett, and Kaila will miss him more than anyone. Just know that he left a lasting legacy and will not be forgotten by anyone who knew him.
Go with God, Coach.
I think these pictures speak louder than words.
Thank you for always letting me sit on the bench
with you during polo games.
http://i33.tinypic.com/207vuqb.jpg
http://i36.tinypic.com/346lx6s.jpg
I know my wife Cece has commented already, but I had to add my own…
Although it seems like I’ve always known Grafton, I think we became friends in junior high school. He then went off to Western and I went to Magnolia and somehow we both ended up playing water polo. Western and Magnolia became great rivals because of our friendship and our games are some of my best polo memories. Grafton was always a gentleman, even when burning you down the pool! But the best times were just hanging out, playing poker, and growing up with our group of friends. I miss driving around listening to the radio, competing to be the first to say the title of a song (and artist and album of course). Grafton always got “Baby, I’m Amazed” on the first chord. I could never top that. I miss you Grafton.
I’m in Oregon now and have seen Grafton only a handful of times over the last 15 years, but they have been significant. You see, a few years ago I finally become a water polo coach myself in a small town called Hillsboro with four high schools and one pool. The first person I turned to was Grafton for help with workouts, plays, and words of wisdom. I feel honored letting everyone know that his philosophies and teaching extend further than Southern California. I am so thankful I got to talk to Grafton on his birthday about this amazing season. Grafton, you’re my coaching role model and I hope I can make you proud.
Mindy, Cece and I felt so very fortunate to be able to hug you and try to comfort you. Our arms are around you, Kaila, and Garrett always.
Much Love Always – Cam Clitheroe
6:00am work-outs, hell week, praying to the weather Gods for lightning and thunder or hoping the temperature in the pool was below 70 degrees so we could get out of practice. These are just some of the memories I have, not only from swimming and polo, but they are what make up my high school memories. And the man that facilitated these memories was Coach Weiss. He was a huge part of our high school life. He was there at every morning practice making us do jumping jacks, he would be standing by the blocks every afternoon counting our intervals, unless it was raining, and he was hiding in the pool office. He was our biggest fan when we won a race, the shoulder to cry on when we lost, and stood in silent disappointment when he knew we didn’t try our best.
All these things he did, intentionally or unintentionally, made us who we are today. And whenever I think back to my time at Katella, besides the memories of Kaila doing homework on the benches and a 3 year old Garrett standing by the pool yelling “swim misses!!”, I will always remember Coach Weiss and what he meant to me, and to Katella aquatics.
Love you, miss you Coach.
Grafton was one of the most genuine people I have ever met. He was a very special person, and wil be missed by all. My thoughts are with you and your children. Take care.
I have known Grafton since High School. We were teammates at Western High School on the water polo and swim teams. Grafton was the glue of a core group of Seniors. He was always fun to talk to and was so good spirited. As a team we went through some good and bad times. But we always had fun together. I came from Texas midway through the 10th grade — Grafton made me feel welcome as a stranger to a new school. In fact, the whole team ended up wearing cowboy hats to all of our games. So many good memories. I will miss him dearly. I send love to all of the Weiss family and pray for God’s comfort to heal our loss
Love Steven Strum
Miss Mindy & family,
Our hearts go out for you and your family at this tragic time. Thank you so… much for all the hard work and love you showed my children as their preschool teacher. Unfortunately I didn’t get to know your husband except for the love and patience that he showed Sierra when she would run up to him and give him a big hug. I am so… sorry for your loss. We will continue to pray for you and your family and I’m hoping to see you back at school soon. Gods Blessings to all. Be at peace knowing that Grafton is in the best place with our Lord and Savior.
I would just like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers for me and my family during this tragic time in our lives. Grafton was an amazing man….a wonderful husband, a wonderful father and obviously a wonderful influence in many lives for so many years. As I sit here, I am still feeling numb, feeling sad, feeling lonely, but at the same time feeling so blessed. All of the words of encouragement and stories I read are so comforting and knowing that the grief I feel is being felt by everyone who knew Grafton…helps me realize I am not alone. God has a plan for each and every one of us and although Grafton was only here for a short period of time…..God knew His plan had been fullfilled……Grafton had a beautiful love for me, his wife, a beautiful love for his children, Kaila and Garrett and Mikael, he was a great teacher, an amazing coach, a caring friend to all, and he had a strong faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His time on this earth was way too short but Grafton fullfilled the plan God had for him and Grafton’s legacy will be with us all for the rest of our lives. Don’t forget that God has a plan for you too…..live each day as if it was your last. May the peace of God be with you all!! Please stay in touch……thank you for everthing.
Love, Mindy
Our Dittos, Mindy and family, to go along withe the “anonymous” writer who encouraged you with II Corinthians 1:3-4 Our great God has been and WILL continue to comfort you througout your lives. His promise is sure “Lo I am with you always even to the end of the age.” Matt 28:20. Mindy, thank you for ministering to us all in your grief. What a blessing to Grafton you have been , and will continue to be to your kids, to your little charges and to the Holy Cross Family by God’s Grace! “A wife of noble charachter who can find?” Prov 31:10. By God’s grace Grafton found one in you! Kaila, Garrett thanks for supporting your Mom. God be with you. “In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths” Prov. 3:6 Mikael you are in our prayers as well!
On Losing Grafton….
We all lost someone on November 29, 2008. We lost a Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle, Coach, Teacher, Co-worker, Friend, Church Member. So many more relationships than I can think of. WE ALL lost something very precious to us that day: Grafton B. Weiss.
To you students at Katella. I ache for you. As Mindy (Mrs. Weiss) recently said, none of you should have to lose a teacher and coach at your young age. All of your teachers care for you, even if you don’t believe it or realize it. I personally know that Mr. Weiss cared for each and every one of you. He agonized over trying to make sure his students had every possible chance to do well on tests and in class so they could get good grades and eventually graduate. I can remember standing in the parking lot after having lunch at Olive Garden one day last spring and he just couldn’t comprehend why a certain student of his blew away the last chance he had to graduate. We went on vacation with the Weiss’ to San Francisco last May. What was Mr. Weiss doing while waiting for the plane to depart? Listening to music? Watching a movie? People watching? No, he was preparing a test on his laptop for the next Monday. Maybe as a high school student that might get lost on you. But he was doing it because he wanted the best for you. He cared for you and your future. ALL of your teachers care for you and want you to do your best. Do your best for Mr. Weiss, won’t you?
And all of you Water Polo Boys. Oh, what a roller coaster week you had. One Saturday you were at the top of the world, winning the CIF championship; the next Saturday, you were milling around the emergency room, trying to comprehend and make sense out of the fact that you just lost one of the most important people in your life. I am so sorry for all of you, but at the same time I am impressed by how all of you have embraced Garrett and Mikael, and Mindy and Kaila. Keep it up. Coach would be proud of you!
For the rest of us, I implore you husbands to love your wife like Grafton loved Mindy. And you wives, love your husband like Mindy loved Grafton. Oh what a relationship you would have! I have personally heard many people say they were secretly envious of Graton and Mindy’s relationship. They were so close. So happy with each other. Soul Mates. Their relationship was what many couples strive for and never attain. Dads, love and listen and be involved with your kids lives at every step of the way the way Grafton was involved with Kaila and Garrett and more recently with Mikael. The world will be a better place if you do. And love the Lord like Grafton did. Because of his belief in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Grafton is now in God’s presence, enjoying the eternal life that the Lord promised to him.
To Mindy, Kaila, Garrett, and Mikael. As you have experienced over the last month, it is hard for people to know what to say to you. But just know that in all of our ignorance of not knowing the right words to say, we love you and want to help you move beyond the how and why and what-ifs that many of us have experienced and into whatever the new normal will be. We’ll cry with you when you need to cry. We will laugh with you when you want to laugh. We won’t forget Grafton and everything he was to us. We will do whatever you need (except trying to fix plumbing problems!) to go down this new path in your life. So hang on…here we go! All our love and prayers, Connie and Tom
When tomorrow starts without me, and I’m not here to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say
I know how much you love me; as much as I love you;
And each time you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me, please try and understand,
that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand;
He said my place was ready in Heaven far above,
And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I’d always thought, I didn’t want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much yet to do.
It seemed impossible, that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for awhile,
I’d say goodbye and kiss you, and maybe see you smile.
But I fully realized that this could never be;
For loneliness and memories would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through Heaven’s gates, I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne,
He said: “This is eternity, and all I’ve promised you.
Today your life on earth is past, but here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last.
And since each day’s the same, there’s no longing for the past.
Well done, good and faithful servant, for now you are free
So won’t you take my hand and share this life with me?”
So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart.
For every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart.
Not long ago did i speak to coach wisse, who no longer was my coach. Though his obligations to mentor us ended after practice, the love he held for his students and players went beyond his obligations. My memories consist of the help – out of the pool deck that he gave me, whether is was over science or life in general. A great coach, a great man. He was a role model, a man who lived life to the fullest. I’ll miss him, my prayers go to his family.