I saved this from a local obit. written about a young man who seemed to have many adventures, many friends, and was much loved:

Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body,
But rather skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting "What A Ride."

I think he "made it." IMO all who pass and leave their friends and family feeling the loss while remembering all the goodness of the person, has truly "made it." One doesn't need approbation from a world of strangers to have a lived fine life.