Life is a balance. Just as fast as your day can be the best, all it takes is one phone call, to kinda turn everything in the other way. The passing of my father, Mark Paniagua Griego, wasn't a phone call I was ever prepared to receive. Even if I saw it coming, I doubt I would ever be ready. Moreover, as I've blossomed into a young man, I've discovered how much things cost. Rugs, for example, are hella expensive. Who knew? You know what else? Getting sick and dying is one of the most costly things you can ever do. It's crazy. "We're all on our way out, act accordingly." But don't forget to pay your tab. An arm and a leg? Try your whole body + 10% interest.

Funerals are expensive, man. Really expensive. Some help would be appreciated. I'm not asking for enough to bury my old man in a casket made of gold, just enough to put him where he deserves to be.

My father Mark, is my greatest mentor. The man, wasn't the loudest soul ever (unless he was in traffic or watching the Bears game). One of the best things he ever did for me was listening. I'd spend hours in his presence, talking his ear off. Speaking of life, love, stress and setbacks. Thinking back now, everyone did that with him. Everybody talked to my Papa. He was an approachable and kind soul who would listen to your every word.

The last time I shared a conversation/meal with him was in a Red Lobster (one of his favorite places to eat) it was euphoric, like a dream. I think, at that time, he knew that he would be called back soon. The conversation came to a lull, and I had to ask him. "Well, papa..?" That's all I could muster before I started to sob into my cup of butter. He knew what I had to ask him, so being the Papa he is, he relieved me of doing so. He spoke frankly and requested that he be buried with his mother, my grandma Alma Griego. It's the only thing he wanted. I told him it would be "easy money" and "don't worry bout it, Papa, I gotcha." But not so soon because, well, I thought I had all the time in the world. That was a month ago.

Our goal is to honor his wish. If you can help us do so, then thank you.

-Marco Griego of the Griego family.