In Memoriam

Dad loved friends and family. He loved a great meal including the entire process of finding a great deal, preparing a culinary creation and then satisfying his developed palate. Dad loved going to the ocean, from going fast on his scooter, to being a part of the Santa Cruz vibe to being enveloped in the tranquility and beauty of nature at her finest. So in memory of my Dad, I ask of you to savor some good food, breathe in the salt air and hold that moment and give love to someone special in your heart.

Dad's preferred identity was as 'Pee-Paw', grandfather to Colten. It is without a doubt his proudest accomplishment and deservingly so. He wore the title with honor. He put the well-being of his grandson at the forefront of every action or thought. Over the years, Dad's 'Pee-Paw' evolution has put a smile in my heart and has broadened and deepened our relationship, our love and our respect for one another. The love he wrapped around his 'little guy' manifested into the truest sprit of selfless love.

En route to the airport, I received a call from Dad's nurse at the hospital. With her generous thoughtfulness and perfect timing, both Colt and I were able to spend his last hours with him with the phone by his ear and us sending him our love and grateful memories. His breathing calmed as he heard his grandson and I was granted with the eternal gift to say good bye and have that final beautiful moment as well as keeping my promise to my Dad to not compromise my health to come out there. In the end, I had the peace of mind that I attempted the journey and that I was successful with my intent. Through the generosity of others, I was able to be with him, I was able to share in his passing and I knew that loved ones were with him as he let go and went on. Dad went peacefully with his beloved friend Karin and son Larry holding his hands and with the love of Colt's last words to him still ringing in his ear.

As I have been trying to re-rally to come out there to help my brother and to do a final fitting memorial for Dad, I was visiting with Colten on the logistics' of this complicated puzzle. Colt allowed a perfect ease to come over my heart when he said that Pee Paw had never broken a promise to him and he had promised to come to Texas as soon as he was able. Dad's ashes will be scattered at our home in Texas with a family service.

Thank you Arbor Cove for giving Dad a safe beautiful independent environment where he made some strong bonds. Thank you for all who checked up on him; kindled friendships with him; took care of him; and thank you dear Maria for nurturing him with your heart of an angel!

With a grateful heart,
Susan Johnson~ DOD's daughter