In the heart of Livonia, Michigan, a devoted Detroit Lions fan and grandfather, Elliot T. Kaplan, may not be here to witness the team’s magical run, but his spirit lives on with a special message left on his gravestone for his beloved Lions.
Described as a diehard fan with an unyielding love for the Lions and all Detroit sports teams, Kaplan passed away before witnessing the team’s remarkable season. His son, David Kaplan, shared the heartfelt message engraved on Elliot’s gravestone: “Sorry, Lions – I just couldn’t wait.”
The Kaplan family, deeply rooted in the essence of Pure Michigan, demonstrated their loyalty by using snow brushes to clear the gravesite, a tribute to the Lions that echoed their father’s passion. However, nature had its plans, covering the touching message with water.
In a light-hearted plea, David expressed the family’s desire for a subpump to preserve the Lions tribute.
Elliot T. Kaplan, who passed away at the age of 87 in 2013, was not only a fervent Lions fan but a dedicated father of three. Despite enduring years of disappointment, the family now finds solace in the Lions’ newfound success, with teams fearing them and the possibility of becoming Super Bowl champions.
Reflecting on Elliot’s last 13 years, during which he faced significant mobility challenges, the family envisions him watching the Lions’ games from above, perched on the edge of his seat, just as he would have in his recliner during his final years.
In the dash that represents a person’s life, Elliot Kaplan remained true to his Honolulu Blue, and the family believes that witnessing the Lions’ playoff victories would have brought immeasurable joy to the ardent fan.
As the Lions continue their historic playoff journey, Elliot’s spirit and enduring love for the team serve as a poignant reminder of the profound connections forged through sports fandom, transcending even the boundaries between this world and the next.