Farewell

When we started this blog on the day of Barry's surgery we never imagined it would grow into what it has become. We also couldn't stand the thought that one day it might come to an end. Barry's Blog will always be here, but this will be the last post from us. Before we sign off, there is a little more that we'd like to say.

First, on behalf of the whole family, we would like to say thank you to all of you for your kind and thoughtful gestures. From the food, cards, flowers, donations and posts to the many kind words at the visitation and funeral. All of this has helped us get through the hard times.

We'd also like to let you know that we are all doing okay. We miss Barry terribly, but we know he's smiling down on us and encouraging us to take care of each other. We can hear him in our heads and picture him doing all of those Barry-like things. And we take comfort in knowing that heaven got a little funnier last week. We're not sure where God stands on Cohibas and Old Sam Rum, but whatever the circumstances, we are confident that Barry is enjoying himself.

Here is a poem that Jamie was planning to read at the funeral (were it not for a little oversite from the presider) and some remarks that he had prepared. Personally, I thought that might have been a little divine intervention from above-- even at his own funeral, Barry was probably a little antsy sitting there in church.

My Hero
by Debbie Hinton Young
As I ponder the love that I saw in his eyes,

A Godly love, given without compromise....

I recall many times that he stood by my side,

And prodded me on with great vigor and pride.

His voice ever confident, firm and yet fair,

Always speaking with patience, tenderness and care.

The power and might of his hands was so sure,

I knew there was nothing we couldn't endure.

It's true, a few others provided insight,

Yet, he laid the foundation that kept me upright.

He's the grandest of men to have lived on this earth,

Although he's not royal by stature or birth.

He's a man of great dignity, honor and strength.

His merits are noble, and of admirable length.

He's far greater than all other men that I know,

He's my Dad, he's my mentor, my friend and hero.

Dad taught me a lot in the past 35 years, perhaps nothing as valuable as the things he taught me over the last 16 months. He taught me to play the cards you are dealt and not feel sorry for yourself. Dad was facing a battle and he knew it. I think everyone will agree from reading the blog that he kept positive and enjoyed each day. He was always worried about making other people feel better. Secondly, he taught me the value of friends. How many people have a group of friends that would change their schedule to be with you, make meals for your family, open their house for your family to stay at, generally do anything that they thought would help out and make it easier on everyone? We can all hope to have a great group of friends like he and Pam. Thank you to everyone. Finally he taught us all the value of a hug (love). You never know when it is going to be the last time you will see someone so you have to let them know you love them whenever you can. Also he showed that a hug can brighten your day and everyone needs them. It's been an honor to call him Dad and we will never forget him. We only wish we all could have had more time with him.

Thank you for being on this journey with us. Dad enjoyed this blog immensely and drew great inspiration from your comments and the frequency with which you checked in on him. It has also meant a lot to all of us.

Hugs,

Jamie & Beth

P.S. We've posted some of our favorite Grampy Bear photos on the blog we keep for our kids: http://kgl2003bjl9.blogspot.com/