new member intro, who else had their early collections thrown out

[billyb]

Hi all,
I am a new member but have already posted one thread about wire photos. I have enjoyed this site so much that I am hooked, so it is time to introduce myself.
My name is Bill, and from Michigan (please no Lion jokes), and am 65 years old.
I started collecting cards in the latter 50s when a penny would get you a 2 card pack. I had all the stars of the era, Ted, Mickey, Pee Wee and Duke, even Satchel found my collection. I did not worry about condition at the time but I enjoyed these cards, but rubber bands adorned each team and some doubles found my bicycle spokes.
I collected until cars and girls entered my life, and then the military called. The cards were stored in the attic, but while I was away, my father remodeled the house and the attic became a second floor and items that were stored in attic were thrown out, including, yes Mantle, Mays, Williams were all gone.
My collective juices were not restored until the 1980s when I went to my first card show. That is when I realized what was lost, but what was still available. My only problem, I hate to sell or lose what I have. But I enjoy buying. Because of all money going out and nothing coming in, my purchase power (the wife) is limited. But I enjoy just the same.
My interest is mostly in baseball, but enjoy all sports.
My most valued possessions is a Mantle model mitt with Mickey's autograph, and a team autographed 1992 Red Wing hockey stick with which include some 5 or 6 hall of fame signatures.
And some 1953 picture negatives of Tigers in Spring training which I have not yet developed.
A small time collector, but this site has got my juices going again, and enjoy all the conversations as well as all the knowledge you all provide.

So who else lost their early collections or, part of a collection?

billyb