OT: Thanks to everyone who showed concern, R.I.P. Francis V. Henry, my dad Options

[Mark Henry]

My dad passed away this past Sunday do to complications with his brief illness. He went without pain and I was with him in the end.

I like to thank all that showed concern and those who offered help when I was in Minnesota. They had flown him home via Lear jet so he was with his family.
He did regain consciousness and we were able to say our goodbyes and have closure.

Good-bye to my friend and father

Francis (Frank) V. Henry

February 14, 1924 - September 25, 2005

[turtleman]

I recently lost my Dad too. I have placed pictures of him and my family in the bathroom and kitchen and frequently take a glance at them. I feel quite lucky to have had such a fine father who has given me much great advice over the years.
I concentrate on those memerable moments we shared to bring that needed smile when I am missing him. I also frequently cherish remembering a few special things he did with me one-on-one.

Once I had been reprimanded for getting in a fight with my older sister. She had instigated the row which got outa hand and I clocked her. I was grounded from a special weekend that the family had planned going away to visit some Salt mines in Bavaria, Germany and skiing (Dad, Army veteran, was stationed in Heidleberg, Germany at the time). Dad was required to stay back for work and could not go on the trip so my mother had insisted I stay back with him as punishment for the blow I sent my sister's way. My father had felt that I was totally wrong doing what I had done but the punishment a little overkill consideing that my sister had initiated the row. Anyway, Dad snuck me off to another ski resort where we skied together for two days, had supper in a restaurant all by ourselves and than rushed back home before the Mother and the others got back. I was sworn never to mention a word to my mother as Dad would have been 'up the creek with no paddle'. I never shared that story with my mother and have always cherished that special weekend with Dad. So you Dad's take note!!! Try to do something special like that with your kids. Those are the things that help make these times easier to cope with.

I wish you the best in being able to recall all similar memories you have had with your Dad. Bless him.

Chip