David,

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. What a blessing you had the opportunity to care for him like you did. I had a similar experience with my grandfather. I will never forget those times, or him... our memories let us live it all over again.

Take care, Carla

David,

Condolences to you. My dad died a little over four years ago and was 81 just short of 82. I still miss him.

Many years ago, my work mentor was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. A work friend and I went once a week to her house. She had moved back in with her wonderful mom who is still one of the purely spiritual and upbeat people it's been my privilege to meet. Because of my mentor's illness, I deciced to take a hot air balloon ride, even though it was very expensive and I didn't really have the money for it. I also didn't have that special someone to share it with either. Had I waited, I would have lost out on one of the truly serene moments I've ever experienced. When I returned, was able to show my mentor and her mother the pictures I took. It's one of my happier memories. I am glad that I realized that life is too short, and that spending time with someone who is dying is really a gift to both of you. Good for you for facing that head on. Takes coursge that not everyone has.

David,

Thank you for openly sharing what must be a very sad and personal loss. That you could be there for your dad and yourself is a gift you gave yourself.

When my father died several years ago at 80 years, I found myself saying, "He lived a long and full life, it wasn't tragic, just so sad for all of us who had to let go".

I miss my Dad too. Bless you.

My condolences David.

My father died the fall of 1999. I miss him. Life has not been the same since. Through coincidence(???) and a mis-read ferry schedule I had the opportunity to spend some time with him just a little over a week before he passed away (heart attack). I am forever grateful for that moment.

This past summer I read a moving eulogy written by a son for his father. It reminded me, very much, of my relationship with my father. Just thought to share it here.

It never gets easy, it just gets easier; that's how it has been for me anyways.

Meron

David, I'm so glad you found the courage to share this with us here. I know we've spoken about this before, but I'm feeling a real sadness for you knowing that this part of your journey with your dad has arrived. I lost my mom to cancer more than a year ago, and no matter how old you are, you're never ready to lose a parent. I hope that you are surrounded by many loving and supportive friends right now, and that you will find comfort in what your father has left you in the memories that you made together.

I want to share part of a canon by Henry Scott Holland. I read it to my dad when I gave the eulogy at my mom's funeral. Perhaps you will find a bit of comfort in it too ...

Wishing you comfort, peace and love, David.

Sue.

David, my condolences to you and yours.

My parents are both still living, and you've reminded me that I should send those photos I've been meaning to and make that overdue call to them today, not tomorrow.

Thank you for sharing with us.

David,

Sorry this condolence message of mine comes late,but like i explained to you in a private message,I have been away for sometime now.Perhaps before now, only Jeff mowatt knew of the reason for my absence,as i informed him at a certain point. Nevertheless,I sympathise with you over the death of your father ,and know that he is surely proud of you in his world,and I can bet he's holding his new friends spell bound with stories of how a wonderful person he has ''way back on planet earth.'' Please accept my support.

David Braden said:

My father has had cancer and it has been my priviledge these past five months to transport him back and forth from the oncologist for chemotherapy. On Friday, his condition took a turn for the worst and he died on Monday, January 31, 2005. He made it to 80 almost 81 (something he never thought he would do as his Dad died of a heart condition when my Dad was 11). He lived a full and happy life surrounded by his family and travelling extensively. I will miss him.

David,

Sorry about your loss. Abe Maslow, probably America's greatest psychologist, once said that a man never really grows up until his father dies. It was true in my case but I was only 34. Now that a year-plus has passed, I'd be interested in what you think.