Indeed, quite a life well-lived. Take care of your mother, that's an incredible void after so many years.


Mostly men here, so I'll share these thoughts, (And I have mean no disrespect for the purpose of this thread focusing on Shakes Dad...perhaps I should've started a new thread)

but, you go through a lot with your father as time wears on

didn't think that much of my dad when I was growing up,
high school, hated him
college, started to get his humor
had kids, appreciated his patience...further appreciation for what he sacrificed for me and my siblings
mom went through Alzheimers...we struggled and quarreled as he tried to maintain control over an uncontrolable situation
mom passes, we become closer than ever...he lives to 90 and I think of him pretty much every day

So again Shakes very sorry for your loss...men need to understand their relationship with their dads so they don't screw up their sons...sounds like your fam had it together