We on earth can be a greedy bunch.
My dad has taken the leap of faith and reached Heaven, at the age of 95 years and a month. Married for over 70 years, his health failed at the end - and yet we still expected to see him rally and spend a little more time with us! His last week was uncomfortable though, and when pneumonia caught him it was too much to bear. Three of my siblings prayed him onward after I had taken our exhausted mom back home for the night.
What a guy! And what a life filled with wonderful memories, friends and family (five children, nine grandkids, and twelve more in the next generation!). He touched so many people, including complete strangers - especially if a baby or dog was involved. We'll never see the likes of him again.
dad's first trip to Paradise, circa 1970
Mt. Rainier NP, Washington
Some perspective on Dad's life!
- He was born after Ireland's Easter Rebellion in 1916 but before the Irish Free State was formally recognized in 1922. Watch the movie "Michael Collins" to learn of those gruesome times.
- He had no middle name but the nuns at school 'requested' one. His mom pointed into a book of saints' names for it!
- My parents were married the day before the Battle of the Bulge began!
- His dad had a ticket on the SS Titanic, but gave it away because he had to remain in Ireland a bit longer..
- Like so many soldiers he was a smoker, but quit before I was born.
- Scout leader, little-league coach, outdoorsman.. everything a boy could ask for.
Thanks for everything, dad!
