My Father died.

[glewis80SC]

Ray Wendell Lewis 7/5/36-1/26/14
He had a hard battle with pneumonia and H1N1 several years ago that rocked him pretty hard, long stint in ICU and extensive rehab but he made it through a bit beatin but up and around.
Sister called me on Friday he was back in ER with pneumonia again having a lot of trouble but is doing ok. Saturday morning several early calls/text "get up here today!!" He was on CPAP but not getting better, decided to have him intubated to hopefully help lungs heal. Flew up that day he looked bad but I was hopeful, but pneumonia and ARDS he was in for a fight. Next day fever up they can't get it down, tachy we spent the whole day there then decide to go home for dinner. As we sit to eat HSP calls he's having cardiac issues now. 10 minutes away he was gone by the time we got there. DNR as per his wishes.
He was the best Dad, always supportive and positive to me and my sister. He served his country in the Marines, he had the strongest work ethic of anyone I've ever known.
His greatest gift to me was his positive attitude. He was physically, verbally and psychologically abused by his Father, told he was a no good piece of ****, never amount to anything and all the others you can imagine.
My Dad made a decision to stop that cycle...NEVER a negative word to me, "I love and appreciate you and you can do anything" was what I was told. He spanked me once and I deserved it, that event was so impactful on my life I still remember where I was when it happened I could take you there right now.
He was the best I wish you all could have met him, I will keep going but I will never get over this loss.

[Nostril Cheese]

I recall you speaking of him before.

RIP.

[Sarc]

Originally Posted by Nostril Cheese

I recall you speaking of him before.

RIP.

I do as well. Sounds like a great man.
Thoughts and prayers to you and yours.

[osidak]

you have my well wishes.

[azasadny]

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family...

[creaturecat]

Looks like he was a great guy.
Cherish the memories.
My condolences.

[MBAtarga]

I lost my dad on May 15th 3 years ago. It's difficult to put into words the impression of a father and his character on a son. You've done well.

[rusnak]

oh this makes me so sad.

My condolences to you.

[bivenator]

My sincerest condolences, he looks and sounds from your description to have been a wonderful man.

[Ferraripete]

I lost my father 2 years ago. still wake up at nights missing him at times. it is a tough whole in your hear you will have to mend. think of him daily and he will always be with you.

my sincere condolences.

r.i.p. sir.

very best,

Peter

[OffCamber00]

So sorry to hear this. These threads always give me pause. My dad is getting up there and i've found myself thinking often about the day I have this news to share.

My heart goes out to you.

[Geronimo '74]

Cherish the memories.
Hang in there.
My condolences.

[Baz]

A very nice tribute and photos, Glen. I know he is looking down on you know and smiling that wonderful smile of his.

Looks like he lived a good life. That's all one can ask for.

Semper Fi and very sorry for your loss.

[targa911S]

My condolences to you and your family. May he rest in peace..

[GeorgeK]

Looks great on the pictures. A real father like one can wish for.

[HardDrive]

Very sorry for your loss. A great tribute to your dad.

[onlycafe]

sad news, he'll be with you forever in your heart.
godspeed.

[herr_oberst]

Beautiful obituary, Glen. Your dad looks so peaceful and happy and comfortable in his own skin in those photos and after reading the story of the abuse, it makes sense. He was one of those special people who knew what he wanted and went and got it. You are a lucky man!

My condolences to you and your family.

RIP Ray. The world is a better place thanks to you.

[pete3799]

Sorry for your loss.
RIP Mr. Lewis

[KaptKaos]

So sorry to hear. My condolences.