Yesterday was a long exhausting day for us.  While we are at peace that dad is no longer suffering (and reunited with our dear Angie), the actual loss is still so heavy!  The only good thing about cancer is that it gave us a chance to prepare a bit and say our goodbyes... But it still is hard and difficult!

Dad passed away lying next to the love of his life in his heaven on earth(the cabin).  It was a peaceful passing as mom woke up at 4am and he was breathing ok and then around 6am, he made a noise and two breaths and he was gone.  Rose called us down from the garage so we could all give him our love once more.  He was surrounded by mom, Rosie, Matt, Teresa, Todd, Mariah and myself.  Rest in pain-free peace dad!  We love you so much!  One thing we noticed throughout the day was it appears dads sendoff from earth was highlighted with a gentle snowfall, just the way he would have liked!  That seemed to give us some comfort on this sad day! 

We met with the funeral director and the priest yesterday (both are wonderful at what they do and we are so thankful they are on this journey with us).  The visitation will be at the parish center across the street from St. Joseph Catholic Church(in Hayward, WI) from 4-6pm on Friday January 4th.  And the funeral will be at 11am at the church on Saturday January 5th.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in dads memory to the Hayward Community Foodshelf(16216W Hwy 63, Hayward  Wi 54843).  This is a true passion of his and where dad volunteered for most of his retirement.  

Again, thanks so much for the outpouring love and support you have all shown us these past several months.  It really has helped make this journey a little bit more tolerable!  And I will always sign off by saying dad's motto... "be kind"!  Love to all!

PS.  Attached is a picture of the ornaments mom chose to give each grandchild this year for Christmas.  So appropriate on so many levels! 
PSS... Finally figured out how to do a video(well... Rosie did it for me😉) and we found this one from dad this past summer!  It is a treasure!  Enjoy!  ❤️