Journal entry by Kay Franey —
Hi Friends and Family (Patrick writing)
Neil passed away this morning at 3:15 am, his son Tim was by his side. We are sad to lose such a kind father/uncle/brother-in-law/grandfather and friend. The stroke came very unexpectedly. Suddenly Dad went from an outgoing, independent lifestyle to a place where he needed help for the most basic functions. We were thankful for 92 years of a full and rich life. The past week and a half he was conscious and alert - understanding what people said and communicating back in writing with his trusty white board. "Thank you" to all for the thoughts/prayers, kind letters/emails/phone and video chats while Dad was in the hospital and hospice. It was touching to hear about how people experienced our Dad. Different ones described his kindness, the way he focused on other people by recalling names and details about people he would meet. He had a wonderful memory for numbers and details and an incredibly generous heart. He will be greatly missed.
A memorial service to be held sometime in May/June will be announced.
Thank you, Love - Neil's family
Photos: Neil 1942, age 15
Poignant Note on the white board when asked about facing end of life, "My life up until Thursday was so good, I didn't appreciate it"
Neil passed away this morning at 3:15 am, his son Tim was by his side. We are sad to lose such a kind father/uncle/brother-in-law/grandfather and friend. The stroke came very unexpectedly. Suddenly Dad went from an outgoing, independent lifestyle to a place where he needed help for the most basic functions. We were thankful for 92 years of a full and rich life. The past week and a half he was conscious and alert - understanding what people said and communicating back in writing with his trusty white board. "Thank you" to all for the thoughts/prayers, kind letters/emails/phone and video chats while Dad was in the hospital and hospice. It was touching to hear about how people experienced our Dad. Different ones described his kindness, the way he focused on other people by recalling names and details about people he would meet. He had a wonderful memory for numbers and details and an incredibly generous heart. He will be greatly missed.
A memorial service to be held sometime in May/June will be announced.
Thank you, Love - Neil's family
Photos: Neil 1942, age 15
Poignant Note on the white board when asked about facing end of life, "My life up until Thursday was so good, I didn't appreciate it"
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