The first Pope I remember is Paul VI:
I remember his as small, thin and "pointy." He had become Pope when I was 3, and was in "office" until 1978. I'm sure we watched his funeral, as my mother loved pomp and ceremony.
I remember the election of John Paul I, because I was old enough (18) to watch/realize what was going on.
I thought, at the time, that Pope John Paul had done a remarkable thing in choosing his name. I also felt he had a kind and calming face.
John Paul's death was startling. I recall senses of turmoil and disbelief and worry. The next Pope, however, ameliorated all of that, almost immediately.
John Paul II smiled. He had charisma. And, possibly my favorite thing about him, he wore a watch. Honestly, now --- who thinks about the Pope having to check the time? It seems like there would be a Cardinal of Time, am I right? And he skiied. Very unlike the two Popes of my memory.
And now, the first Pope that is going to be seared into my children's memories.
I don't know how many more Holy Fathers I will get to see, but this one has sunken deep into my heart. He seems more human than those before him. Or something; I can't really get the words right. But, he wears a watch, too, and he gives us moments like this: