It has been a while since I posted. To be honest, the family just needed to breathe a little and try to start to process what has happened since dad’s passing. The funeral planning was shockingly exhausting and the climax of the actual day is like crashing into a mass of confusion, love, grief, and a step towards healing all at once. I still don’t understand the quiet that follows a day like that. After months of exhaustion and work; it all stops and the silence when you come home if deafening.
The service was wonderful and the turnout was truly a blessing. To be surrounded by so many who loved/respected/admired (take your pick) dad so much was healing for many of the attendees. Though the day’s purpose was sorrowful, I know that we were there remembering my father’s life. Not the illness that took him or his death.
My father’s passions and contributions were so perfectly highlighted in Dr. Koplan’s eulogy. I cannot thank him enough for spending the time and effort on what I know was one of the harder speeches he has had to write in his lifetime. To make us all laugh and cry – to cover every aspect of my dad from his childhood, to basketball, to work, love of family, and stamp-collecting was not an easy task, but Jeff took it on wholeheartedly and with passion.
I am sure the family was not able to thank everyone person that made the funeral or reception, but please know we appreciate your being there. Many virtual hugs from the Thacker family to you.