Robert L. Hinshaw Poet Rhyme

Punkin Man

Dominic Venetucci - 1911-2004

Outside, snow gently fell upon the barren punkin patch.
Where happy children once romped was now a forlorn thatch.
Inside the aged' couple reminisced about happier times and shed a tear.
Alas, drought dashed their plans, there'd be no punkins for the kids this year.

The Punkin Man hosted school kids at his ranch nigh on fifty years,
Giving away tons of punkins to his very special dears.
'Twas a tradition that endeared him to families in the Fountain Valley.
Sadly, the beloved Punkin Man, to his regret, brought it to a finale.

As kids searched for "that special punkin" he took so much delight,
Watching a little one struggle to tote the one that was "just right!"
This modest man quietly taught a moral he hoped the kids would learn:
"It is good to give, you'll get so much more in return!"

Though the generous punkin give-aways will be a part of his legacy,
He sacrificed and gave in many ways during his life's odyessy.
Early in life he cared for his ailing parents, giving up a dream,
Foregoing a promising career with a major league baseball team.

We'll miss the Punkin Man, his John Deeres and legendary smile.
His love for neighbors made our lives in the valley much more worthwhile!
Surely God and His hosts gave him a welcome so very fervent,
Proclaiming, " Well done, Punkin Man, My good and faithful servant!"

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
(© All Rights Reserved)

This is the true story of Mr. Venetucci and his wife Bambi (who survives as of this writing
and is blind). In order to take care of his aging parents, he and Bambi didn't marry until they 
were in their seventies.  He was once featured on the CBS show Travels With Charles 
Kuralt.  In his will he donated land to construct a Catholic Church which was dedicated in 
March 2010.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Joyce Johnson March 27, 2010 at 5:50 PM What a wonderful story. Thank you for posting it. We need more like mr. Venetucci and we need more appreciative people like you to tell their stories. We hear so much of the negative these days. Thank you. Joyce

Ralph Taylor March 27, 2010 at 1:19 PM Thanks for your comment, Bob. I like Green tea myself. Have a good one. Later, Ralph.

Audrey Haick March 27, 2010 at 1:19 PM Wow, living saints are Mr. Venetucci and Bambi!! I'm glad that you honor them this way, Robert...People need to hear stories like this more often instead of all the horror we have to listen to on the news...I believe there are many like them who we never hear of. God bless you Robert...Peace, Audrey

Ralph Taylor March 27, 2010 at 1:05 PM God bless him and may he rest in peace. Nice story and tribute, Bob.

Poet Destroyer A March 27, 2010 at 11:39 AM It sounds pretty good to me both ways . The pom it self, and the story. P.D.