Dad at 30

This coming Monday marks the 30th anniversary of my father's passing. He retired in 1990, developed bone marrow cancer and passed away a year later.

I was grateful that I could be with him by his bedside when he passed.  Dad was something I don't hear too often as a descriptor of people anymore “a very good man.” He was also  kind and thoughtful.  Years and years after my graduation from college, he remembered my college roommates by name and would ask about them. 

Whether it was his deep voice or physical bearing that he still had years after his service as a marine during the Korean War, people always came to him for advice and comfort.  He also loved to have a good time with his family and friends,  I remember the many parties at the house where his booming laughter would permeate the air. 

He adored his granddaughters and was saddened that his youngest granddaughter, who was three years old when he passed, would only remember his frailty.  I feel sadness that his great-grandchildren never got to know him, it would have been mutual love at first sight. 

I bring up these memories not only to remember my dad, a man who was truly loved and adored, but to remind us as caregivers to try and bring to life the good times we had with our loved ones, before advanced age, illness or disease took their dastardly tolls on them and share these moments with people who may never have even met them.  It just may bring some much needed joy and sunshine to the lives of all around.  And who couldn’t need more of that?  

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