It has taken me a bit to find the words to create a final Caring Bridge entry for dad.  Our close family gathered June 13th, 2020 at Fawcett Junker Funeral Home in Winona.  Our dad's Catholic Parish Priest, Kathy Redig, said mass and we remembered dad with a special family eulogy.  My sisters and I each participated by doing readings.  I think Dad liked that.  He was such a polished public speaker and charismatic leader within his profession.  Cousin Ruth and her son Adam led and accompanied the congregation with melody, harmony and silky guitar chords.  Dad so loved music.

Afterward, we spent some time at a local park, enjoying some more "socially distant" memories of Dad and just being with family supporting each other.  The sun was high but a slight breeze kept us cool along the banks of the Mississippi River.  It was a day Dad would have enjoyed VERY much.

My sisters, Pat and I want to thank all of you who have supported us emotionally along this journey.  The outpouring of flowers, cards and pledges to Dad's favorite causes has been overwhelming.  I mean, I knew I was lucky to have a great dad, but some of the stories and memories you all have shared??  I guess I didn't know exactly HOW lucky!  I have been moved from tears to laughter so many of these past nights.  

Every night it goes like this:  The cards sit at my computer after the mail has been gathered and sorted.  I stare at them not quite knowing what to expect.  I don't know what feelings they will elicit THIS time.  Tonight it was another friend from Forest City.  His prom date who was a wonderful friend. This made me wonder who my beautiful Mom had gone with?!?  😮 😂   The other night his best friend from high school wrote and shared his memories of Dad and Mom.  The night before that a colleague whom dad had mentored early in his career.  SO many stories.  So many laughs.  So many tears.

These past months have been a whirlwind of emotion.  We have shared many triumphs and tragedy along the way.  The ups and downs that come with the territory when someone is going through the final chapters of their time here can just tear you up.  I am thankful for many things and people along this way, but most of all I am thankful for our family:  Ann Marie, Jennifer and Pat were constant partners in the direct caring for dad.  Brian did double duty MANY nights and weekends making it possible for Ann Marie to be so present in those grave moments. Luanne was my rock day and night;  willing to drop everything, pack a bag and go or meet me in Winona.  The kids and extended family as well.  We really DID rally as a family and that, I am certain, was not lost on dad.

Thank you for following Dad's story here on Caring Bridge.  Please consider making a pledge to keep this forum available for other families on this journey.

Paul

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope some day you'll join us
And the world will be as one