The Car

Pa had the blue 1978 Mercedes Benz 300D as long as I could remember. He meticulously cared for it and the engine and transmission were kept in perfect mechanical condition. Unfortunately other parts of the car broke down over time. A wiring problem caused the battery to drain, but the Capitol Police Officers were always ready with a jump - I think Mom knew them by name. She was a good sport over the years until one summer when the automatic windows and A/C went out. She told him they needed to replace the Mercedes with a new car, as she put it “it’s either me or the car”.

When I heard this, I immediately asked about the Mercedes “can I have it?”, and she said okay. I took it with me to Iowa, then New York, and to Hawaii for a few years where Pa got to ride around in it. He really loved the car, it always brought a smile to his face and I think he stood a little taller every time I brought it around. I’ve had it for nearly 20 years now, and driving it brings back wonderful memories of spending time with him.

-David M. (Grandson)