My dad died Sunday, July 23, 2006 at the age of 50 of a massive heart attack. He had no health problems and it was a complete shock to me and my family. Below are the words that I had shared at the memorial service.
My Daddy was always there for me : holding me up to play the piano when I was a baby, teaching me how to tie my shoes – wrong J - hours and hours of logic problems, letting me and Danny spend the night with our friends every night when mom was out of town, watching an entire football game just to see me run a flag for 10 seconds or kick a 5 minute routine, helping me get ready for my Senior Prom, moving me to college…and many times thereafter…my first broken heart, my college graduation, walking me down the aisle at my wedding and telling me that it WAS worth every penny, helping with anything and everything we need at house, the birth of my son – his first grandchild, coming home from work and taking him into the living room to play…and for everything in between.
What I’ll remember the most about Daddy was that he was so full of life, and he didn’t hesitate to show us. We knew when he was mad and we knew when he was happy – he had a laugh that made you laugh along, completely unforgettable.
I could go on forever about what an amazing person my father was, about all the wonderful things he did for us all, about all the fun times; but he knew…he knows…how much I enjoyed spending time with him, respect him, love him, and how much I will miss him, every day for the rest of my life.
Last year I gave him a Father’s Day card that was one in a million, sharing with him feelings that I cold never find the words for myself. I’m so thankful he was able to read it, to understand how I feel, and to know what he means to me. I’d like to end by sharing those words with you all:
I’m a Daddy’s Girl
My dad is one great reason why I turned out okay.
He’s the guy who taught me to stand up and have my say.
If I could choose from all the dads, I’d pick him any day…
That’s why I’m a daddy’s girl.
He’s the kind of guy who’ll hand you the shirt right off his back.
He knew the trick of giving me the right amount of slack.
And even if I’d mess things up, he wasn’t keeping track…
That’s why I’m a daddy’s girl.
Time has changed a lot of things, but there’s one certainty-
His trust and honest caring guaranteed there’d always be
A bond of love and friendship between my dad and me…
That’s why I’m a daddy’s girl.
I Love You Daddy.
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13 comments:
I am so sorry about your loss!! My prayers are with you and just know that he is still with you; and probably now more than ever! When you feel that strange sort of breeze; know that he was just trying to give you a hug. Smile at all the "weird" things that will happen and just say "Hi dad". He is with you.
Heather- I cannot imagine the pain you and your family must be going through. There are really no words to express my sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with you....AOE, Gwen
Heather, What can I say. I'm so, so sorry for your loss, and the sorrow that you feel right now. Please know that the pain will fade with time, and also know that the wonderful memories you have of your father never will. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Joy
Heather~ You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Always remember that he is always there with you.
Heather,
Your post is truly beautiful and you have captured beautifully everything your Dad is to you. I am so sorry for your loss and please know that my thoughts are with you and your family. If you need anything, ANYTHING, you just let me know. *hugs*
What a great Father's Day card, it is wonderful that you got the chance to let him know what he means to you. You are right- he does know it still, I really do believe that. I am sorry I couldn't be with you at the memorial service but know that I am always here for you when you need to talk, vent, or reminisce. Life can really be unfair and while the ones we love the most are taken from us too soon, the memories we have and the love in our hearts for them can never be taken away. Love & AOE, Mel
I want to think everyone who is helping us remember our father as the great man he was, and I also want to think Heather for writing such beautiful words to describe him. He was a great and unique man than will never be forgotten and we will always miss him and the happiness he brought to our lives.
Heather,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I can't imaging the shock you must be dealing with. Remember he is always with you.
God bless you and your family. Rest in the assurance he knew how much you cared and never doubted your love. He will smile on you and your beautiful family always.
Jesse (sis-in-law of Belva)
Heather-
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. Losing a parent is one of the most painful times to endure in life. Please know that although your hurt will fade, your memories will be alive forever. Don't hide your tears, you will feel better to let the hurt out. If you need anything, please let me know.. even if it is just a listening ear. He will be with you and your family forever. Your words were absolutely beautiful.
Heather, I'm so sorry for your loss. It's hard to know what to say. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. If it makes you feel any better know that now when I think of my Dad it's with a smile rather then tears. The pain does fade, and the memories are yours for life. Take care and hang in there.
Heather,
My heart is aching for you. When my mom died, I felt empty, but with the help of my friends and family, we are getting through it. I know he knew how much you loved him. Let us know if you need anything.
Heather...I am so sorry for your loss. I haven't blogged in AGES and didn't hear the news until now. Sorry I'm so late to send my condolences. It is nice to hear you have shared with him how much he meant to you. It has to make the transition a little more peaceful. My thoughts and prayers are with you!!!!
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