I know a lot about my grandparents on my mum's side, not so much about on my dad's side though. I've done my family tree going back to the 15th century in England and have gathered a lot of understanding through it...took me a couple years. I've visited places they were born, christened, married and buried (mostly in Cornwall) and I feel more complete because of it. What I'm saying is that I agree doing some research of your own is a good idea.
Well done on the grandchild old young fella.