Hey old man, Your reply was always hey "young whipper snapper". I know you will understand what I am about to attempt to say. You just had that ability. As a father myself, I know it comes from loving your family, that knowledge of knowing what is on their mind before they say it. You were Dad in all aspects. You understood the security of a family better or appreciated it more than most becuase you did not have that as a child. I cannot imagine what it would have been like to grow up never speaking to your father as you did. To have him pass you on the street but not speak would crush me. I know there are alot of other details regarding this but I think you know what I am trying to say. You were not bitter, but instead made sure your family never had to experience this uncertainty. So many things I could say, I would be writing until next year. I am very grateful we lived our lives as father and son. We had a very special relationship and you and I both knew it. I have prayed many times over the years thanking God for you and for Mother, and to take care of you and to remember you in heaven. I KNOW God is doing that right now. I looked up in the sky on Saturday night, a moonless but clear night, filled with stars, quiet and still, peaceful. I had to smile, because I know you are up there, happier than you have ever been, experiencing the joy that only God can give. I know, because I know, because I know. You were the best Dad, you were my Dad.
