Funeral for my father

Post by **Roy Hersh** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 1:29 am

Today was a most difficult day. I arrived in New York yesterday, along with other family members and it was snowing and quite cold.

I had bought the ticket a few days ago, as soon as I heard my father had just a few days left. He passed away the day before my arrival, which coincidentally was my wife's 50th birthday. Without thinking twice, I kept my daughter home from school and we put together a fantastic celebration for my wife that night and toasted her birthday and my father's life.

Today was the funeral and I was the second to speak, after my father's wife (my step-mother) and it was very cathartic. I have always been close to both of my parents and my father was a kind and generous soul and instilled many wonderful qualities that I hope to continue passing along to my young daughter. Later in life, my dad became more of an inspirational friend as well.

Although my father was not in public view today or even in a casket, my brother and I were able to see him lying in a private room. I was very thankful for the opportunity to spend time with him today and say my goodbye in this way, after being 24 hours too late. Fortunately I had spent the better part of six weeks with him in 2008.

Today was a very difficult day in realizing I will never see my own father again, a sobering thought for anybody who loses a parent or loved one. After years of suffering a slow and debilitating bout with Alzheimer's my father is finally at peace and for this my brother and I were most thankful.

Erik Wiechers · Post by **Erik Wiechers** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 2:31 am

My condoleances Roy. Remember the good days, and i hope you and your family are in peace with it also.

João Rico · Post by **João Rico** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 2:55 am

Um abraço Roy, in such dificult times.

ryan opaz · Post by **ryan opaz** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 4:03 am

Best wishes Roy during this difficult time. Celebrate his life and continue to toast it with the best wines.

All the best from Spain.

Gabriella Opaz · Post by **Gabriella Opaz** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 4:05 am

Dear Roy,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, and please know that our hearts are with you.

Post by **Andy Velebil** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 8:32 am

Roy,
My condolences go out to you and your family during these difficult times.

Post by **Glenn E.** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 9:37 am

My condolences, Roy. Spend time with your extended family and remember all of the good times.

michael miller · Post by **michael miller** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 11:25 am

Roy,

I am so sorry to hear about your father. I am glad I had the honor of meeting him.

Michael

Marco D. · Post by **Marco D.** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 12:28 pm

Such a horrible disease... My thoughts are with you at this tragic time.

Frederick Blais · Post by **Frederick Blais** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 6:10 pm

Most sincere sympathy Roy.

Julian D. A. Wiseman · Mon Jan 19, 2009 7:01 pm

If there is anything that needs doing in Manhattan, I can help.

Jeff K. · Post by **Jeff K.** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 9:10 pm

Roy:

I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Eric Ifune · Post by **Eric Ifune** » Mon Jan 19, 2009 9:55 pm

Roy,
My condolences to you and your family.
I'm fortunate that both my parents are still with me and I spend quite a bit of time with them. I still open Ports and Madeiras with them. It's good that you had some time with your father this past year.

David Spriggs · Post by **David Spriggs** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 12:10 am

I am so sorry to hear this. My sincere sympathy Roy. If there is anything that I can do for you please do not hesitate to ask.
-Dave-

Moses Botbol · Post by **Moses Botbol** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 7:45 am

Roy,

My condolences to you and your family.

Ray Barnes · Post by **Ray Barnes** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 9:59 am

Roy, on behalf of my family I also offer my condolences to you and your family. I will keep you in my prayers. It is very good of you to be keeping in touch and I hope you will continue to do so as and when circumstances permit. We're all here for you.

Ray, Vhie & Alexia

Brian C. · Post by **Brian C.** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 1:12 pm

Roy,

My condolences go out to you and your family. I can at least somewhat imagine what you have gone through because my grandmother also is suffering from Alzheimer's. I know how long and difficult the road is, to say the least. Sorry for your loss.

Brian

Marc J. · Post by **Marc J.** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 6:05 pm

Roy,

My thoughts are with you and your family. Reflect on the good times and those special experiences that both of you shared over the years.

Marc

Luc Gauthier · Post by **Luc Gauthier** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 6:42 pm

Roy , mes sincères condoléances

Post by **Roy Hersh** » Tue Jan 20, 2009 11:11 pm

It has been a very rough week. I sincerely thank all of you for your generous thoughts of good will and condolences. It is at times like these, that I can take solace in the kindness of

friends! :winepour

Now if only I had a sip of some Port ...

For The Love Of Port

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