Robert "Manzo" Perovich

Grandpa Bob, an outstanding person, grandfather, and life-long friend. Bob´s many stories and larger than life narratives inspired those around him and my favorite memories of him will surely be shared for many years to come. Visiting his cabin on Silver Lake as a youngster was one of my many memories of Manzo. This man would actually wake up at 5:00 AM in the morning to rotate the dishes in and out of the dishwasher. I had never experienced such a loud wake-up call in my life. Later, you would see Bob on the boat dock with a fishing pole in one hand and, in the other, the largest rack of ribs you´ve ever seen. Back in the cities, Grandpa Bob was like a second father to me. We would watch many Western Classics as well as some good war-time films such as The Dirty Dozen and Force 10 From Navarone, just to name a few. Aside from this, we would learn about the solar system on the History Channel, understanding how the universe works. Before his passing, Bob gifted my brother and I a telescope for Christmas just like the one he had up at his cabin. When I received the gift, I thought to myself: "What am I ever going to use this for?" Looking back, I believe Bob had given us the space telescope in advance so we could see him in Heaven. I am so grateful to have had such a wonderful Grandfather and we must never forget the incredible impact he had on everyone around him. - Sam Lavine