Dad, It's Been a Real Doozy...

Today marks one year since you left us, Dad. A year that we expected to be rough for sure, but holy sh*t was that an understatement! Little did we know when we said goodbye last October that our lives would take such a dramatic turn. A detour that thrust us into a world of fear, uncertainty, isolation, and more twists than I can count. The experts always say that you shouldn’t make any changes during your first-year grieving. Well, 2020 had other plans.

Dad, you were always our rock and, although you raised us to be independent, we leaned on you. There was never a time in our lives that you weren’t there for us at a moment's notice. It didn’t matter if the problem was big or small, you dropped everything to help your family. You were a fiercely loyal husband, father, friend, and colleague. Your funeral was a true testament to that, and I will always cherish the countless stories shared at your services and beyond.

But I must be honest, Dad. For as much as I miss you, I am glad you’re not here to live through this mess. You were incredibly passionate about everything and had very strong convictions. You protected your family, your friends, your home, and your community with everything you had, but you also had high blood pressure that would have been put to the test this year, far worse than any of your 5 kids. Hard to believe, I know, but it’s true!

Don’t worry though, we’re doing okay down here because of you. Thank you for being such a strong, loving, caring and passionate father. Your example has helped us find our way this past year. I hope you’re resting easy, Dad. You certainly deserve it.

“As today I know I'm living but tomorrow, Could make me the past but that I mustn't fear, For I'll know deep in my mind, The love of me I've left behind, 'Cause I'll be loving you always”

– As (Stevie Wonder)

Love,

Sheila