My grandfather, Ioannis, was born and raised in Sparta, Greece. The mentality of his family was very strict, and his upbringing was focused on work rather than enjoyment. He began his life of hard work and forced independence at around 12 years old when he quit school and began working. He later joined the Greek army, where he spent many years of his life and gained much of his personality and morals. While in Greece, his family and my grandmother's family arranged a marriage, which would take place in New Jersey, USA. Shortly after my grandparents' marriage, they gave birth to my father, and after that, my uncle and aunt. My grandfather came to the US with practically nothing except a strong will for success, which he believed he could attain in New York. He started a cabinet and kitchen-making business and spent the last of his working years pouring what he had into his business. He built endless kitchens, designed my family's entire vacation house, and left a very memorable mark on my family, as well as many other families. He unfortunately passed away this June, and his story and impact are something that can never be forgotten within my family.

– JK

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant