I got the call around 1 pm today that he had died around 6 am Hawaii time. I knew immediately when I saw my Dad's caller ID show up on my phone because lately my Aunt (she lives with my Dad) hasn't been calling us, I've been calling them every other day. So for her to call, I knew he had passed.
After she confirmed my suspicions, I don't remember anything else she said. It was like once I was told my Dad was dead, everything went blurry. I know her and I talked a little bit more but I can't remember what was said. I was in shock.
For the next two hours I was hysterical, desperately trying to get a hold of my best friends and/or my husband.
And I got no one... so all I could do was cry. I had JUST told my oldest two kids that I could not guarantee Grandpa would be there when we went to Hawaii... and then when they got home from school, how was I ever going to break the news?
My Mom called. I had told her about Dad's arms turning blue last night & she called because she had sort of brushed me off last night because she was distracted.
She calmed me down... and then when DH came home he just hugged me. He didn't know what to say but just him being here was enough. I don't expect anyone to know the right thing to say... all I ask is they don't tell me what the bus driver told me 1 hour before I found out about my Dad (which the bus driver told me to "Smile more").
I don't know the details yet of anything. I called my brother and my Aunt is supposed to call him with more details. I'm holding off calling my Aunt till later, I can imagine she's going through a lot with my Uncle trying to make arrangements for their brother. I know much of everything was planned, but since he died at home - I'm sure a lot is involved as well.
I don't really know what else to say. I'm heartbroken but "okay" as far as losing your parent goes. I can imagine had I not gone to Hawaii in September that I would be devastated right now. My Dad has always been that kind and guiding light in my life. I can't imagine life without him, but somehow I must.
I'll miss him forever... but as I wrote to him in my last email to him before his health started to decline, I know he is now with my Grandma and Grandpa & his two sisters so that when it is my time - I'll have lots of company. He'll always be in my heart. Rest in peace, Dad, and may you bring as much joy to heaven as you did to those of us here on earth.
My Dad
2-25-40 to 10-1-09
He's gone
October 1st, 2009 at 11:37 pm
October 1st, 2009 at 11:45 pm 1254440741
October 1st, 2009 at 11:46 pm 1254440784
October 1st, 2009 at 11:58 pm 1254441500
So sorry about your loss. Condolences and prayers.
October 2nd, 2009 at 12:00 am 1254441629
I am so glad you got to see him one last time. It is just the reminder I need to never pass up an opportunity to spend time with my family, especially my parents. Our time here is never guaranteed.
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Just remember, he's praying for you in heaven.
October 9th, 2009 at 10:59 pm 1255129177
Jerry
October 10th, 2009 at 09:21 am 1255166462
October 17th, 2009 at 04:30 am 1255753828
October 19th, 2009 at 07:40 am 1255938010