Today I lost my father, James Maurice Stockham, to Alzheimer's disease. He was 76 years old. Dad has suffered from this terrible disease for over 13 years. Although I've had a long time to say goodbye, today was very difficult. I take comfort knowing that he is in a better place and that he is no longer in pain.
I would like to share a quote which I believe lifts the spirit:
"The soul takes flight to the world that is invisible but there arriving he is sure of bliss and forever dwells in paradise."
— Plato
A friend sent me this short story and hoped I'd find it comforting, and I do:
The Little Ship
I stood watching as the little ship sailed out to sea. The setting sun tinted his white sails with a golden light, and as he disappeared from sight, a voice at my side whispered, “He is gone.”
But the sea was a narrow one. On the farther shore a little band of friends had gathered to watch and wait in happy expectation. Suddenly they caught sight of the tiny sail and, at the very moment when my companion had whispered, “He is gone”, a glad shout went up in joyous welcome, “Here he comes!”
(from Henry Van Dyke's essay "A Parable of Immortality")
He leaves a wife of 25 years, 2 children, 1 step son, 3 grandchildren, 1 brother and 4 sisters.
I know he is in heaven tonight with his Father and Mother, keeping watch over us all. Rest in peace Daddy.
Love, Kris
31 comments:
Kris,
I am so so sorry to hear of your loss. No matter how prepared we think we are. It always hurts so much to say goodby. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
What a beautiful quote to honor your dad.
Big HUGS Lynn
Kris, am so very, very sorry. What a sad day for you and your family. The northern lights are supposed to dance above Alaska tonight - I bet your Dad will have a good view of them. May you find peace during this difficult time.
Kersten
Please accept my sympathies on the loss of your dad. Alzheimer's is such an awful disease. I hope you have many happy memories of earlier times to help carry you through this difficult event.
My deepest sympathies, Kris.
My condolences on the demise of your beloved dad. I lost my dad in 1996. It was hard to stop the pain. Life goes on. May you be strong.
Dear Kris, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss of your dad, He must of been proud of you, I hope you and your family find peace in the many memories you must have of him. With Love and light Debi x
My heart goes out to you. This is a most difficult time to go through when we loose a loved one. I hope you gather strength from family and friends as you move through the grieving process and know that there are bloggy friends & strangers sending you their thoughts and prayers as well.
Kris, I'm so very sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. Please accept my deepest sympathy. My heart goes out to you and your family Kris at this time. May our Lord hold you and your family in the palm of His precious hand and give yous much love, peace in your hearts and strength. Hold onto all the wonderful memories of your father close in your heart. That way you'll carry him with you always. May our precious Lord above be with you and your family, may he bless yous and watch over yous and love yous always.
What a beautiful quote Kris one with so much meaning!
Hugs and many blessings...
Bobbi Ann
Kris, you have my sincere sympathy. It's so hard to lose your parents. May the love of God and of caring friends comfort and strengthen you.
So sorry to hear about your loss Kris. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Hugs,
Robin
I'm so very sorry that you lost your father. I'm sure he is in a better place. Hugs to you. Laura
Kris - I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. Hugs, Ali
You are in my thoughts.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Sheila
I'm thinking of you in this very difficult time.
I am so sorry for the loss of your pops. Please take care!
Kris, I discovered your blog and beautiful artwork recently... and was so touched by your loss. I know your heart is aching; and your are correct in that your daddy has found his peace. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Hello Kris, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care and if you need anything, please let me know. Love and Hugs, Terri
How very sorry I am for your loss. I hope God will surround you with love and comfort, and ease your sorrow. Sending warm, sympathetic thoughts your way. Gentle hugs to you.
I am so sorry for your loss. Your father must have been so proud to have such a talented daughter. What a great smile your dad has in this pic. I know your heart aches.
I am so very sorry for your loss Kris. I know your father must have been so proud of you. I've never met you in person, but know what an amazing woman you are. I am sure he is watching over you and you will see him again one day. You are in my prayers. God Bless. Rhonda...
Kris, I'm so sorry to read this. You have my prayers!
My sympathy is with you and your family at this sad time, Kris, take care.
My condolences, dear Kris! I am with you in mind!
Dear Kris,
I am so sorry to hear this. I hope that you are well and wish you peace, xo
Such sad news. Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your much loved father. His suffering is over but the loss to those who are left to mourn him is great.
Marie.
Kris, my sincere sympathy for your loss.
Kris, I am so sad to hear of your loss. Tears came to my eyes as I read your post. Love the picture you posted of him. I know he is watching over you and yours. Take care my friend. Love, Hugs and Prayers!
Kris,
sending you all the love there is on such a sad day.
You are never prepared for it no matter how long the illness is.
keep strong
mandy x
Dearest Kris,
I was so sorry to read about the recent loss of your father in your tribute post! My heart goes out to you today and I will keep you in my thoughts! Your mourning will be great but your friends are greater and will always be here to support and comfort you during your time of need!
Sincerely,
Kym Decker
Kris, I'm so sorry to hear this. Alzheimer's is so hard on families. My grandfather had it for 10 years before he passed away. Hugs and peace, Deb
Kris, so sorry for your loss. We lost my Dad July 7th so I know exactly what you are going thru. A broken heart is the worst pain to live thru. Hope you find comfort in your family and friends who keep you in their thoughts and prayers. Here's to better times and warm memories.
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