SAN DIEGO — A lifelong wish for a 96-year-old grandfather came true on Tuesday thanks to his family, the San Diego Padres and thousands of fans at Petco Park.
Grandpa Buddy has never been to a Padres game in his life.
His family told CBS 8 that his lifelong dream was to attend a game at Petco Park and make it on the famous jumbotron.
To celebrate his 96th birthday, Grandpa Buddy finally attended his first San Diego Padres game with his two grandaughters’ husbands and their father-in-law.
Grandpa Buddy entered the stadium with his family who carried a sign that said, “Happy 96th Birthday Grandpa!” His family says thousands of fans stood up to sing Happy Birthday. Grandpa Buddy walked through the stands to his seat, high-fiving and greeting happy fans along the way.
Photos | Grandpa Buddy's 96th birthday
A stranger who caught a foul ball gave it to Grandpa Buddy as a birthday gift. Later in the game, Grandpa Buddy’s lifelong dream was fulfilled when he was featured on the Petco Park jumbotron.
“My grandpa was blown away at the kindness of strangers,” his family told CBS 8.
When reflecting about the special birthday celebration with his family, Grandpa Buddy said, “More people said happy birthday to me, than many will hear in their whole life.”
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