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My father was diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer 6 weeks ago and yesterday that battle came to an end as he passed away at home peacefully in his sleep, with me by his side holding his hand. Thank GOD he is now at peace. He approached his death with remarkable serenity, a testament to his inner peace and acceptance of the natural cycle of life and death.
“A boy doesn’t become a man until his father dies.”
Today that statement rings true for me as I reflect on the loss of my father. A man that was good brother, father, and husband. He touched many lives. He was a protector. A warrior. A Joker, and a Lover. His words always uplifted you and his kindness will be remembered for generations. His family was his greatest accomplishment. Something he was really proud of. At a young age and 1 of 7 siblings he helped his mother raise his entire family once his dad went missing. He then grew up without a father, which I believe, helped mold him to become the father he always wanted. A man of strong morals and values.
He served in the @usnavy for 22 years during the Vietnam War +++ as a S.E.A.L. & even re-enlisted at the liberty bell. He took his oath very seriously and never wavered from his love of liberty and freedom. He then went on to raise his own family starting with my mother’s first 2 children which he always considered his own. After divorcing my mother he found the most amazing woman for a wife that then in turn took us children under her wing as one of her own. Together they had two more children. He was so very proud of his grandchildren.
I learned a lot of lessons from my dad but none hit quite like the one I experienced over the last final weeks of his life. I came to fully understand the true difference between a Rich man vs Wealthy man. My family came together like always and we were extremely lucky enough to all get some quality time with him. I think we are all grateful for that. I love you daddy, thank you for everything.
Now; next phase.
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