Saturday, January 30, 2010

The end - and the beginning

A blog entry written by my son, Brian:

Dear Friends and Family,

Dad passed from this earthly life about 1:20 pm yeaterday.

I spent Thursday night with him since my brother spent Wednesday night. Dad's breathing became progressively more labored and shallow as time went on, until he drew his last breath.

This represents the end of Dad's earthly life but the beginning of his eternal life. He no longer has a mind fogged by Alzheimer's Disease or ears that can barely hear or legs that can barely carry him along. For the first time in years he understands clearly, hears everything said around him, and can walk easily. Most importantly, he is face to face with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Mom, Daryl, and I will miss him, but we look forward to being with him when our time comes.

Arrangement's for Dad's memorial service are pending at this time; I'll send another email when they are finalized.

Meanwhile, Mom came down with a respiratory infection this week and fell in the bathroom Thursday night. Since Daryl is staying with her he was able to call 911. She wasn't injured seriously but is in the hospital recovering from dehydration and a urinary tract infection. The doctor discovered significant blockage in her carotid arteries as well and she will have surgery soon.

Daryl stayed with Mom Thursday night until Friday afternoon, when I came over from Hospice House to relieve him. I stayed with Mom last night and she is feeling better this morning. We expect her to be discharged tomorrow.

Thank you for your past and continued prayers. We appreciate them and can feel them.

Love,
Brian