Dad

I have to share with you the sad news that my dad passed away on Monday at the age of 86. You may recall that my parents had sold their Cape condo and were moving down to Florida to become year-rounders. They left on October 18; Andy drove them to the airport and reported that Dad seemed perfectly fine, even lugged the suitcases out of the car with no problem. On November 2 he went to the ER with shortness of breath, spent a week in the hospital, received a diagnosis of advanced lung cancer, and then went home. He was gone three weeks later.

It was awfully quick, yes, but long enough that I got a chance to fly down to Florida and say my goodbyes. He was lucid right to the end, and not in any great pain, for which I’m grateful. We even managed to make each other laugh a little bit while I visited.

My parents celebrated their 61st anniversary last February—a very exclusive club, as Andy points out. 

Dad painted in his spare time; his artwork adorns the walls of all his children and grandchildren’s homes. This one’s my favorite; it hangs in my living room:

 

He was also an avid gardener, golfer, traveler, and food lover. He taught his daughters how to play poker and how to body surf (we called it “taking in a wave”). He was really smart and had a wicked sense of humor.

Here’s my favorite photo of Dad, from when he was about 23 or 24, in Germany:

The funeral will be held tomorrow. Rest in peace, Dad. I love you.

Comments

[Beth F]

Oh I'm so sorry for your loss, but glad you were able to fly down to be with him. My thoughts are with you and your family.

[Seth Lipkin]

Wonderful words, and what a great painting and photo. Thanks for sharing. Hugs.

[Elena]

My heart aches for you and your family. I hope you can take some comfort from having had a chance to say goodbye. Your dad left such a wonderful legacy. Why am I not surprised to learn that he was a very smart and talented person? The painting is lovely!

[TwoBusy]

Echoing what everyone else has said: So sorry for you and your family, but in whatever small way it matters I'm glad you were able to see him in Florida, and that he was not in great pain, and that he left behind such a vibrant reflection of his presence in your life in the vivid colors of the painting on your living room wall.

[Wendy]

I hope it's not inappropriate for me to remark that he was quite a handsome devil, both at 23 and later. I like beer-drinkin' men. I sure hope your mama is doing all right, and that you are, too.

[Tonya]

So very sorry, Karen. What a beautiful painting! The colors, the detail — it is delightful! I definitely see "you" in the photo of your father. I feel so sad for your loss.

[Ellen]

So well written. Love seeing people use the word "wicked." Clearly a Boston thing. Again, so sorry for your loss. I am about ten minutes from Boynton.

[Janeen]

A lovely tribute.

[Margaret]

He sounds like a fascinating and talented man with lots of adventures and travels in his life. I would like to punch lung cancer in the face!! So sorry for your loss. xoxo

[Cherylstober]

May his memory be for a blessing.

[Sharon]

I'm sorry for your loss Karen. It sounds like his was a life well-lived.

[myra potischman]

I will always remember Uncle Bernie helping us plant our rock garden.Even after thirty three years and not much attention those flowers still bloom every year.What wonderful memories you have of your dad.May they comfort you and the family in the days to come.
love Myra Potischman

[Pam M]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Your dad sounds like such an interesting man, (which may have something to do with that 61 year marriage)! I'm glad you got to spend time with him and glad that he didn't suffer terribly. There's such a blessing in that. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

[jama]

Sorry for your loss, Karen. Glad you were able to spend some time with him in Florida. He sounds like a wonderful person -- and what a great artist!

[Adena]

So sorry to hear this sad news, Karen. I'm glad he didn't suffer. Wishing you peace during this difficult, sad time.

[Nancy Potischman]

What a lovely tribute Karen. Uncle Bernie always had a smile and upbeat disposition. I love how he balanced his many interests and enjoyed life. May his memory be a blessing! Love to you and all the family. Cousin Nancy

[Trasherati]

My condolences to you and your family, Karen.

[Deborah]

I'm so sorry, Karen. But I'm glad you got to spend some time with him towards the end. My condolences to your family.

[Mary]

I'm so sorry Karen. What a beautiful tribute for a beautiful man.

[ProofingSandy]

My condolences for your loss, Karen. Wishing you and your family comfort and blessings.

[Laurie C]

I'm sorry to hear about your dad! Those are very nice photos of him, and he sounds like a wonderful person.

[Risottogirl]

I'm so sorry, Karen. He sounds like a wonderful man.