Saturday, January 18, 2014

In Memorium




I posted this earlier today and then had second thoughts about it and deleted the post. But so many of you on Facebook saw it before I removed it and were so kind with your comments that I decided to re-post it. Those of you who knew of my Dad's illness know that it's been a tough time especially the last couple of years. It's been good to talk to family and remember happier times when Dad was telling a dirty joke, enjoying a scotch, or rooting for his beloved New York Giants....


My Dad passed away this afternoon. I miss him already.

He'd been taken away from us little by little. It was good to look at some photos of him with his beaming smile...something I truly missed over these past years of his battle with Parkinson's.

I remember my wedding, thirty years ago...I couldn't tell who was more nervous walking down the aisle that day...the young woman taking the next step in her life, or the grown man letting go ...

Now, I know what it's like to let go...

24 comments:

  1. Julie, My deepest sympathies but this is a very sweet post. I'll bet he was a wonderful character and am glad you have good memories to honor him with. Big hugs, Cindi

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    1. Hi Cindi- He was a man with a quick wit and a big heart. I'm going to miss him. Thanks.

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  2. Julie, my heart is aching for you. I knew you going back to Savannah, but hadn't realized just how crucial this visit was. My apologies for that. If there's anything you need, just let me know. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

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    1. Hi Jennifer- I feel so fortunate that my planned visit turned out to be perfectly timed. I got to see him while he was still strong enough for some quiet time together. Even in his diminished state he mustered up the words, "I hope you don't mind it I don't talk in complete sentences." I could have cried at that moment but instead gave him a hug. Thanks for your comment here and on fb. You are a great and caring friend.

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    2. Oh my dear Julie. Huge hugs to you.

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  3. I am so sorry for your loss. Cherish your memories forever.

    My uncle was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at an early age so, I grew up seeing the heartbreaking progression.

    Michael J. Fox has brought a lot of attention to Parkinson's but I still feel that it's an almost forgotten disease. :(

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    1. It is a heartbreaking disease. My Dad got Parkinson's about 7 years ago and just couldn't get past the fact that he wasn't able to do the things that gave him so much pleasure..golf and tennis. Unfortunately, as the disease progressed, it also affected his mind and so eventually he could no longer play bridge or cribbage. What I'm finding is that more and more people are telling me about loved ones who had or have this disease. I only hope that some day in the future there will be a cure. Thanks so much for writing and sharing...I really appreciate it.

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  4. My sincere condolences. May all your memories be happy ones.

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    1. Thanks, Maggi. It's good to now be able to cherish happier memories of him.

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  5. Your dad sounds a wonderful man and I can see the love and happiness between you both in your wedding photograph. My deepest sympathies are with you and may you remember only the happy times. Margaret

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    1. Thanks, Margaret. In his prime he was full of life--loving to partake in and watch sports, always ready with a good story or a funny joke. It's good to now have the chance to remember those times.

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  6. So sorry, Julie. Keep all those smiling photos close by.

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    1. Thanks, Susan. It's the one thing that makes me really cry...my Dad losing his ability to smile. Seeing him smile in old photos is bittersweet.

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  7. I'm so very sorry for your loss, Julie. Your words and photos in this post are a lovely tribute to your dear father.
    xo

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    1. Thanks, Angela. Trying to remember the good times.

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  8. Oh, Julie, I am so sorry to read about your father's passing... I can only imagine what a sad weekend it has been. How fortunate that you were able to spend some more time with him just now...and to have a few more precious memories of him. I suppose those are what get us through the pain of losing someone dear to us. That, and knowing you & your family are in the thoughts & prayers of so many...

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    1. Thanks, Lisa. I have been amazed by the number of people from near and far who have sent along their thoughts and prayers...thanks for adding yours. I'm looking forward to being with family even at this sad time. I want to remember some of the funny times with my Dad.

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  9. My heartfelt condolences Julie.Your beautiful memories and photographs will keep him alive.

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    1. Thank you Maya. As my family gathers we are enjoying sharing wonderful memories...very cathartic.

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  10. Julie, I happened to see the notice of your Dad's passing in the NY Times a couple of days ago and resolved to contact you and your family with my condolences. I have such fond memories of your Dad, his smile and good humor, and his blue Porsche Targa (do I have that right?!) I have e-mail addresses for Jeff and Stuart and will be contacting them to get your Mom's address. All of my best to you and your family. Memories live on. (I LOVE the photo of you and your Dad....) Jeanne Breen (blast from the past...)

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    1. Jeanne- So surprised to hear from you! Thank you SO much for writing a comment here and for sharing your memories of Dad. He loved his cars and jokes. We're all gathering down here in Savannah and the best part has been sharing all sorts of funny stories. I was amazed that Jeff could name every car that Dad ever owned...and yes the Targa was among them. I'll let Mom know that you were in contact. She is a great strong lady with a big heart...I know that she will manage. It's been a tough last couple of years for her. Hope all is well with you and your family. Much love.

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  11. I only just read this, Julie. I am so, so sorry you lost your Dad. I know you'll always miss him but, at some point, missing him will become a sweet experience. There will be room for smiles and even giggles, lots of love and maybe hope? My thoughts are with you.

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    1. Thanks, Ersi- spending time with family and remembering Dad before he was ill was very cathartic. I know that I will have moments of great sadness, but all moment where there will be a grin on my face.

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  12. I'm sorry to hear about your dad Julie. My mum died last summer, very suddenly of a stroke. I'm the last one; my dad died 20 years ago, and my sister died 16 years ago. It's a cliché, but true, that time is the biggest healer. We just have to get through it. My best wishes to you and your family.

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