Thank you all for your prayers and well wishes. My family and I are comfoted by them.
TorqueThis, sorry I have not contacted you. But,things progressed quicker than we imagined.
Tony, yes I do remember. You wrote a very nice response on my other thread. I, am my family felt comfort with it.
I'm having a very difficult time with this. i was trying to prepare mysylf over the last 3-1/2 months, but I was just fooling myself. This is far more difficult than I ever could have imagined. He has only been gone 1-1/2 days, and I can't think about him or see a picture of him without crying. As I'm doing right now. Over the past 10 or so years, I had just started to get very close to my dad, the way I always wished I was. I think we had finally understood each other. I was fortunate enough to hear my dad speak proudly of the work I've been doing to my house, and I was able to tell him something that I had wanted to for many, many years. He said, he knew it all along.
My father lived for his family. We were always comforted knowing dad was around. Even as an adult, I knew I could always call him for honest advise by someone who would be looking out for what is best for me.
My fathers wishes were to be cremated and just have a Memorial Mass, which we will have this Thursday. The funeral director we went through was very kind and actually surprised us with this. We will be able to have a Military Honor Gaurd for my father. The reason this is important to us, is we have been trying to get VA help for my dad, but they had classified him as not a veteran because he served his whole service in peace time. I thought this was total B. S. , I even contacted my local Congressman, and he confirmed it.
My dad is deserving and able to have a Military Honor Gaurd. They will not be able to play taps, or gun salute because it will be at the Church. However, my mom will be receiving an American Flag from the Honor Gaurd! I KNOW, my dad must be looking down, smiling, and pleased that he will finally be recognized for his service. He has ALWAYS been a proud American.
my thanks again
George