98 Years On This Earth

[KevinTodd]

I had written a huge essay at 3 AM about this, but erased it and came back now with a much shorter version:

My dad passed away yesterday at about 3PM.

His 98th birthday was Sunday...I was fortunate to be there with him to celebrate it, and at that time he was still up, around, and sharp as a tack. I came back home to wait for the call.

He had told his doctor a few weeks ago that he had abdominal pain, so he went in thinking he had a small hernia. Instead it was colon cancer, and it had spread.

For the first time in his life--he didn't push back. He was ready to join my mother again--he had missed her so much since she passed in '04. My brother and I never thought he'd make it 11 years without her, but he proved us wrong. They were married for 65 years.

He went from complete independence on Saturday to mostly unable to stand on Sunday, to bed ridden (in-home hospice) on Monday...and passed yesterday while his grand daughter rubbed his back and read a book to him. She tearfully told me that he opened his eyes wide, looked right at her and smiled as he took his last breath.

I'll head down today and we'll bury him next to mom and get the rest of his business in order.

I'm so happy he didn't linger. Didn't suffer. Didn't fight back.

I'll sure miss him.

[billybek]

I am very sorry for your loss, Todd.

[onewhippedpuppy]

Very sorry Todd. Sounds like he left under his own terms, there's something to be said for that. Hopefully you can find solace in the thought of him reunited with your mother.

[ben parrish]

98 years is a great run at this world. Sounds like a great man and a wonderful dad. Having a grandchild there proves the love and compassion he helped foster within your family...his legacy lives on within you all.

[GH85Carrera]

Sorry for your loss.
Losing a dad is hard. I miss my dad and I know you miss your father.

[Bugsinrugs]

Not knowing you or your father,your story brought tears to my eyes. He is off to a better place.
Take solace in his memory.

[herr_oberst]

What a great photo of your dad. The twinkle in his eye and the wry smile tell the story of a man who enjoyed life.

Thanks for sharing and my condolences to you and your whole family.

[Jim Richards]

My condolences as well. It's very fortunate that he didn't suffer much/long. Living well and independent to age 98, and being surrounded by his loving family is a wonderful thing. May he rest in peace.

[Oh Haha]

Sorry for your loss. May your Dad rest in peace.

[Chocaholic]

A life to celebrate. Glad he was able to smile at the end and that you were there to celebrate his birthday. It still hurts more than words can express...you know that better than anyone.

Sincere sympathy on your loss.

[Danimal16]

Condolences for your loss. 98 years is a long life during incredible times, but yet still to short.

[Nickshu]

God bless him. Those photos and your story were very touching, especially because both my grandfathers served in the Navy in WWII, and I served 10 years myself. May he rest in peace.

[Baz]

Very sorry for your loss, Todd.

It's a great story though - 98 years is a very good run.

Thanks for your father's service.

Godspeed sailor.

[Norm K]

You reminded me of the final moments I shared with my dad. Thank you for the tears.

[wdfifteen]

[wdfifteen]

[widgeon13]

God bless him. He went out on his own terms!

[oldE]

Thank you for sharing and reminding me of my own father who left us 18 years ago.
At times the years don't ease the loss that much.

Savor the memories.
Best
Les

[LakeCleElum]

Very sorry Todd........Glad he lived a full life....

[vash]

RIP dad.

thought from my family to yours'.