This morning at 7 AM, my dad passed away peacefully at home with his wife and two of my sisters by his side.
He was a quiet man with a love of learning. He embraced that love with lots of travel, stamp collecting, bird watching, reading, and keeping up with current events. All around his house are mementos and photos of the interesting life he lived. He worked hard and carefully managed his resources so that he could have the life he wanted. (Skimp on the ketchup, take a cruise.) We poked gentle fun at him, but we love him deeply.
He showed us as much of the world as he could, taking us camping and on vacations every chance he had while we were growing up. He made sure we had plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and have our own adventures. His children, and at least one grandchild, inherited his wanderlust. He made sure he enjoyed his time on earth. Following his example, we found things we love to do and make time to do them.
Dad taught us to be true to ourselves, not to compare ourselves to “Susie Jones,” and to be individuals. He may have regretted encouraging our individuality from time to time, especially in the teen years. Both of our parents stressed the need to be responsible for our own choices and to stand up against peer pressure. One of his favorite lines was, “If Susie Jones steps in dog poo, are you going to step in dog poo?”
I cannot justly describe his personality, but he was a good man, full of goodwill, incredibly smart, with a subtle sense of humor and a wonderful smile. He could not bear to see his kids unhappy and did his best to make sure we were okay. He was not perfect, in fact, many of our favorite stories involve something that went awry, but he was amazing in his own way. My favorite stories are of Hero Dad: how he had to knock a hole in his bedroom to rescue my hamster who fell down between the walls; the time he saved my catfish when its whiskers were caught in the net; and the day he surprised me with a new pet mouse after tragedy struck and my mouse, Hazel, died.
I like to think that our family dogs, especially Custard and Angel, his Bullmastiffs, are overjoyed to be with him once again.
We love and miss you, Dad!
Oh dear, we are so very sorry to hear such sad new about your wonderful Dad. We all send you hugs and all our love.
Oh Beth, this is a beautiful and loving tribute to Dad! It is a post that I will revisit again and again. xoxo
So sorry to hear of the loss of your father! Sending you both big hugs, love and light.
That was such a loving tribute. I snickered at “Susie Jones.” Didn’t we all grow up with that example? Your dad sounds like a wonderful man that loved and was loved. That’s a great legacy. ♥
I am so very sorry for your loss, Beth. I’m sending hugs and healing thoughts to your whole family. Roxy sends you many, many kisses!
So sorry to hear of your loss, Beth. What a beautifully written tribute to your father. The Susie Jones stepping in dog poop line made me smile – there’s nothing quite like Dad Humor. 🙂 My thoughts and prayers are with you <3
Oh Beth, what a truly great and wonderful father! It sounds like you got a lot of his spirit, kindness and compassion passed down to you.
My love to you and your whole family.
The warm image of your Dad reunited with his dogs is a beautiful one. While the world has lost a great man, through your words I can see he will live on in the hearts of many. xxxx
Beth and Alice……your dad certainly sounds like a wonderful man…much of the reason he has two amazing daughters. I always comment on how I love the two of your laughs….sounds like you got it from him!! May the wonderful memories you had with him and his laughter fill your heart during this difficult time!! sending you both list of xoxoxo
So so very sorry for your loss, what a beautiful tribute you did with this post on a very sad day for you. Your dad sounded like a great guy. I lost my dad when I was 23 and that was 20 years ago, I miss him each day. Hold on to those great memories and he will be with you forever. Hugs
That is a great tribute to Dad. One of my favorite travel adventures is still the first time we went to Paris lol.
What a beautiful tribute. I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. My thoughts and condolences go out to you and your family. Hero Dad sounds like an awesome man.
Hi Beth
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. I am sending you positive and healing thoughts. What a nice tribute.
I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. What a beautiful tribute; your loving words paint a precious picture. May you find comfort in your wonderful memories.
I am so sorry to hear about your father, such a beautiful tribute. Sending love and thoughts your way.
What a lovely tribute. I’m so sorry for your loss.