Grieving the death of a parent

[Terese]

Dear Colleen, When Jen wrote that you and your family needed prayers, I just knew it was something with one of your folks. You have my deepest sympathy. Loosing your Dad is awful. Having to deal with everything else and still grieve is miserable and everything inside you aches. I lost my Dad; he also was under Hospice care. I only remember how I cried. But I knew he was in a better place. I’ve added you and your family to my prayer list. Know that I care, and am here for you whenever. And I am so proud of you for entering this post, not just to let us all know about your Dad, but to help everyone else who hurts to heal. God bless you!

[Colleen]

@Terese Tuohey Your prayers mean so much to me! Thank you! I hope your dad’s hospice experience was the same as my dad’s. They took such excellent care of him and were compassionate to his family and friends. His passing was peaceful, and knowing that helps me grieve.

[jen-cueva]

Hey @Colleen-Steele , iIt was so good to hear your voice and chat this evening. My heart and prayers are with you and your family as you grieve the loss of your wonderful dad. As you mentioned, I imagine your emotions will be all over the place, especially now that you and your mom are “empty nesters.” That is completely expected.

Although the winter storm was horrific for so many, I’m glad it gave you and the boys some much-needed extra time together.

I enjoyed our conversation about westerns and how much your dad loved them, just like my late stepfather, TonyRay. It’s so cool that John Wayne was his favorite, too. I had forgotten you mentioned your dad worked at Stetson when John Wayne was a customer, what an amazing story! Your dad lived such a fulfilled life, and there’s no doubt his memory will live on. It’s clear he was an incredible friend and mentor to many, and he was lucky to have such a phenomenal daughter to love and care for him.

Still, after years, certain shows (Westerns), songs, words, and events make me think of TonyRay and grieve. 🤗

Please know you are never alone and you have a big extended PHamily here in the forums. Feel free to text or call me anytime. 💜

[carol-volckmann]

Dear sweet Colleen, I am so sorry to hear you lost your dad. I read his obituary – what an amazing life your dad had. All the lives he touched, his gentle strength, his love for his family and friends and what an incredible positive influence he had (still has) on your life. Two great men, Brian and your dad will always hold a special spot in your heart.

I am so sorry, once again you have so much on your plate while grieving. My prayers, my love reach out to you and your mom. Thank you for

sharing a very difficult time with your extended family on this forum. It shows how dedicated you are to reach out to others making a difference always.

Gentle, warm hugs surround you with love ❤️.

[Colleen]

@carol-volckmann You word things in a way that always makes me feel better. I appreciate you remembering Brian and how I now have two amazing spirits watching over me, my mom, and my sons. The PH forums are as much a place of healing for me as I hope they are for all our members.

[Colleen]

@jen-cueva Talking with you was so healing. I enjoyed sharing the similarities in how we remember our dads. Mom and I continue to watch at least one Western before bed every night. I believe it is a routine that will remain for a long time.

You know my friend, Janet…her dad was a big John Wayne fan and she used to make him casseroles and stews inspired by John Wayne. I’ll have to get those recipes from her and share them with you.