Saying Goodbye: Dad’s Memorial Service
My dad, Raymond F. Ross, died almost two weeks ago. His Memorial Service was yesterday, Saturday (15 February) at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Arcadia, CA. It was a beautiful day, sunny, temperature in the mid-70s. Dad—who was always cold—would have liked sitting in the sunshine. It was a small gathering. Family, friends, church members all shared some memories and said their goodbyes.
Mom died a bit over a year ago. It seemed especially apt that Dad passed this year in time for Dad and Mom to be together again to celebrate Valentine’s Day. A restaurant near them always offered a free dinner and a photo to couples married more than 50 years. Mom and Dad were married over 70 years and enjoyed surprising people over the length of their time together. They never quite looked—or acted—their age!
Now that they are both gone, I like thinking of them once again being together for birthdays and holidays, adding more years to their lives together. I do miss them!
My main tribute to Dad at the Service was this PowerPoint Slide Show that showcases his life and family. It is comparable to one I prepared about Mom at her passing. Sharing the photos, the memories, somehow makes this time of sorrow a bit easier.
I do feel lucky that I saw Dad a few days before he died. It was a typical visit, and we parted saying, “I love you” and sharing a hug and a kiss. Thank goodness! Please tell your loved ones how much you love them and show them by giving them your time and attention. You never know when they could be gone.