Francis Duggan - The Grumpy Old Man

'Tis said that he died with a smile on his face
Though laughter in his life did not have a place
In his ninetieth year he enjoyed a long span
The one who was known as 'the grumpy old man'.

Near death 'tis said he did smile though some say that's a lie
But then perhaps he did feel happy to die
Of humour in his life he surely was broke
He was not what one would call a cheerful old bloke.

His son emigrated many decades ago
And where he lives now few if any do know
By ten years he was pre deceased by his wife
With him she would not have known an easy life.

The old bloke that time had left weary and gray
He died with a smile believe that if you may
Without even smiling at those who said hi on his way
He used to walk down to the park every day.

From life's worries and cares he has found his release
He is now with Nature may he rest in peace
He died with a smile or so the rumor go
But most who knew him say how to smile he would not even know.

Francis Duggan

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-grumpy-old-man/