My Father Is A Tree

Thanks, asnow.


After work on Easter Sunday, I caught the bus up to Edmonton. My sister picked me up at the hotel that it stops at and we went directly to the hospital. We got there about 10:00 p.m. My Mom was already there. My Dad had essentially slipped into a coma on Friday and had not regained consciousness since. Someone from the family had been with him at all times. He was never alone those last few days. I was able spend some time talking to him. I told him about the tree and that I loved him. My sister and I then returned to her place, leaving my Mom with my Dad. She spent the night talking to him; singing to him; and comforting him the best she could. He passed that night at about 4:30 in the morning. She later told me, "He was waiting for you, Jackie. He knew you were coming. We told him you would be here. After you and Bonnie left, it was as if his whole body relaxed. He knew he did not have to fight anymore.

Today I got a card in the mail from the Ranchmen's Staff. They purchased a tree to be planted in the Memorial Forest in Fish Creek Park along with a granite marker with his name on it. I did not tell them about the Elm.

When I was a young child, my Mom and Dad were very poor -but here they are, looking like Hollywood royalty responding to a photo-op with the kids for the press.
My sister, Alene on the left and myself on the right.


Attachment 12226

P.S. That is not a body in the yard, just my uncle Blackie sleeping in the sun.

Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. It's touching that you shared the photo of him and your family, which must have been an early influence on your love of photography. Take care. Mike

With my own father so ill at present (both lung and heart capacity at 20%), this really hits home right now. They all have to go I know, but I'm truly sorry for your loss JAS.

I can tell his spirit lives on in you, that is all a person can ask for is to leave people who love you for who you are. You honor him well. Sorry for your loss and may your memories always bring a smile to your face.

I am so sorry for your loss JAS. I can remember holding my father's hand as he died like it was yesterday. I know how hard this is. Over time the loss is lessened with the memories, but it doesn't completely go away.

Thanks everyone. Thankfully, he never suffered at the end and he lived a good long life.
M.A. sorry to hear of your Dad's troubles. It's a hard thing to go through.