- R.I.P Daddy 9-15-11
September 15, 2011
It is with heavy heart that I write todays BLOG. My father-in-law passed away this morning. He had a couple small medical issues, that spiraled out of control and took his life suddenly. The world is a little dimmer today without his shining light in it.
His 89th birthday was 9-12-11. He was a man of integrity. He and mom were married 69 years. They toughed it out through thick and thin. They raised a family of three daughters. That legacy spanned five generations. He was the patriarch, a born leader of men who lived by example.
He remained in control of his faculties until the very end. As death stalked him, he talked with almost every one of his family members, in person, via phone and through the caring hearts of their mothers. Love filled that hospital room, just as it had filled everything he did.
He was a World War II veteran who had fought and froze in the Battle of the Bulge. The war with the effects of frostbite would be fought the rest of his life and was a contributing factor to his death. He did not complain … ever. He was a man’s man who gave his word and kept it. He was a good judge of character, a good father and a true sportsman.
He told me yesterday that he had liked me from our very first handshake. I married his oldest daughter. This morning I shook his lifeless hand and promised to take care of his girls. I stand in the shadow of this man that we all called daddy.
I stood in the corner of the room last night and watched him eat his last dish of ice cream. He needed a little help, but enjoyed his favorite treat one last time, washed down with a few sips of black coffee. The shine in his eyes and look of pleasure on his face will remain a favorite memory of mine.
He talked with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren while a great great grandchild cooed in the background. He told the kids to always do their best, choose good friends and to never give up! They hugged him and poured their love out for their Pa-Pa. I can only hope that when my day comes, God will grant me the time to touch my loved ones hearts one last time too.
We have all cried a tear or two as we grieve for a man who meant so much to us. We know that he is in a better place walking arm and arm with his bride once again. He, I am sure, is shaking hands with loved ones, friends and holding a baby boy he never got to know.
We will celebrate his life and share his legacy with folks we meet to honor him and keep his memory alive. I will think of him, and my own father, as I savor the taste of good vanilla ice cream and the refreshing taste of hot black coffee to wash it down. I will continue to value a firm handshake and a man who keeps his word.
Rest in Peace Daddy.
RicelandMeadows 
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