"FATHER"

My father will be 80 next month. He is showing all the signs that let the world and those close to him know that he is now an old man. His memory is fading, his hearing is almost non-existent and he is a little uncertain on his feet. He gets his words mixed up and can't do the everyday things that he thinks he can. It's sad to watch really.
He has always been a man who is well-liked by all who know him. He has never said a bad word about anyone and could probably be described as easy-going and even-tempered. He has always been the community member who would say yes whenever anything needed doing and, consequently, there came a time when his heart told him that he had to be less compliant.
His family history told a story of high blood pressure and heart attacks at 60. Dad was no exception, he had the heart attack at 60 and has always been troubled with blood pressure problems. But, in his case and unlike his father and most of his brothers, he lived! And we are the lucky ones!!
We have had 20 more years to love him and to be supported through our times of need.
I myself have had the pleasure and reassurance of his strong hold as his arms held me for a cuddle in my darkest hours. His words have sometimes been muddled but they have had meaning and calmness at just the right times.
My Dad is a gentle man with amazing physical strength for someone of his age. He may be old and his addled words and memory may at times be frustrating both to himself and to his family but he is my Dad and I wouldn't want for any other. We could all take a few leaves out of his book!
I love you, Dad!xxx

September 2nd, 2017
Tomorrow is Father's Day and the first ever without my Dad. Sadly, the world lost this beautiful man on April 19th. However, I know that I am one of the lucky ones! I have had the pleasure of 60 years with a Dad who was the best! The memories we made together will be cherished in my heart forever. Thank you, Dad for always being there when I needed you, for your wisdom and strength, for your unending love, your smile and your stoicism. Keep smiling, Dad!  I love you!