I have such wonderful memories of my Dad. My Dad was a teacher in Massachusetts for five years. He also worked at The Boston Navel Shipyard. He was there twenty-one years. About seven years ago, Dad became ill. His visits to his doctors became more and more frequent and were taking up a lot of his time.
I wish you had known my Dad. He was a very caring and devoted husband, father and grandfather. My Dad loved life. He was a fighter all the way. My Dad loved to work with wood and from his hands came some beautiful and treasured heirlooms. I am so fortunate to have some of Dad's homemade furniture in my home.
The last two years of his life were really hard for him. Dad had a terrible time breathing and was on oxygen all the time. He had heart problems. Everything started to shut down on him this past winter. Two years ago, the doctors told us Dad would not see Christmas. Well, they didn't know "my" Dad! To some degree they knew his body, but they didn't count on his strong spirit! He fooled them all. I had the gift of having two more years with him.
His last winter was his worst. The trips to the hospital were more and more frequent and he spent more time there. In January the family was told Dad had about a month. Dad's lungs and heart were getting worse. We then took Dad home. Home is where my Dad longed to be. We sat at his bedside, our hearts crushed and sore. We did our best to the end, until there was nothing more to do. Through tears we watched him sinking. We watched him fade away, and though my heart was breaking, I knew he could not stay. Dad, you left behind some aching hearts that loved you most sincerely. We will never forget you Father dear.
On February 25, 1999, my Dad went home to be with God. I feel so blessed that God gave me the chance to be with my Dad when he passed away. Dad left behind his wife, Emily, and two daughters, Lisa and Hope. Also left behind was a very special son-in-law, Tom. His grandchildren, Angela, Kim and Cliff. and his great grandchildren, Amanda, Ashley, Melissa and Kaleb all miss their "Bar." Now my dearest Father, may you rest in peace, and remember you will always be loved. May God continue to give us faith, strength and the courage to get through these sad times. Dad, may you always shine down and be my angel from up above. Whenever I need to talk with you, all I have to do is look up into the clouds and know that you are there. |
