Monday 16 May 2011

The Story of a Humble Man

My father was a man of few words - but the love and respect he inspired in those who knew him spoke volumes.  He never put himself first and he never complained, not even when Parkinsons began to slowly take away his independence.

As the oldest of 17 children, and the father of 5 his life was never quiet - and he liked it that way.  He had a smile that melted my heart and he loved to laugh.  In February this year my dad and I laughed so much we cried while watching a Jerry Seinfeld stand up dvd.  We watched all the extras because we didn't want any joke to go unappreciated.  It was one of my favourite nights of the visit. 

The first couple of months after my Mom died I think Dad put all of his energy into being strong for us, and shortly after we left in March he started to fade.  He was in a beautiful care home and had visitors every day  but without my Mom he was lost and within 2 weeks he was admitted to the local hospital where he stayed until his death.  I didn't make it home in time but my sisters were both there - and surrounded by his amazing brothers and sisters he was never alone.

My father suffered from Parkinson's for many years but he died of a broken heart.  My parents had been married for almost 55 years, and as Parkinsons progressed she  took the best care of him that anyone could.

As the priest said at his funeral - "I imagine that at the Pearly Gates today, Elsie has pushed St Peter aside and is saying "It's ok, I've got this one".  She's standing there with her arms outstretched as Herman strides up the stairs to be with her again."

I miss them both so much, but it brings me comfort to know they are where they belong - together.

18 comments:

LittleBerry said...

I am so sorry to hear this... my thoughts are with you

Yarndancer said...

I'm so sorry for your loss :( *hugs and love*

florapie said...

This is so beautifully written Soo. I'm so sorry you've lost your dad as well-you and your family are in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Soo, I'm so sorry for you, but how lovely for him that he wasn't without her for long.

((hugs))

Helen
x

fleegle said...

I am so sad for you. He sounds like he was a wonderful, wonderful father. Cherish the memories.

Trista said...

I have heard some sweet stories of long married couples dying within a few months of each other. Here is another true love story. Bless you in your time of loss, and thank you for sharing with us. I am sure they are happily together again.

janiannie said...

What a wonderful tribute to both your parents and what a legacy they have left their family...love, laughter and so many happy memories.

yarnlot said...

A very touching story. It reminded me of my own father who passed away from the same dreadful disease...

uhltje said...

So sorry to read about your second loss in such a short time.

ojgirl said...

I'm so sorry. Know that many hold you in their thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss.

Lucie said...

So sad to know about your dad. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Felicity from Down Under said...

You are having a sad year but the memories of all those lovely happy times you spent with both your parents must make the grief of their loss somewhat esier to bear. Courage.

Ann said...

Adding to the thoughts and prayers. Was moved to tears when I read this. What a blessing to love so well as they did! Know you will take comfort in knitting.

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear that you have lost your father so soon. When you first posted the picture of your dad and mum together, what struck me was how totally focused he was on her. She was obviously the light of his life. Hugs to you and your siblings.

lv2knit said...

Words cannot express how I felt reading about your second loss and seeing the picture of your mother's Lyra (I am behind on my blog reading). This is sure to be a difficult time...hoping you find comfort with your many memories.

The Caked Crusader said...

Even though I knew your sad news, when I got to what the priest said at the service I shed a tear. Probably shouldn't have read it sitting at my desk...
You write so beautifully about your parents.

Elly said...

Am very behind on my blog reading, and have only just seen your posts about your parents, so beautifully written. I lost my mother last year, and I miss her every single day. My thoughts are with you.