Five years ago today, my dad passed from this life to the next. It was a remarkable day for my family… all ten kids gathered around his bedside at home to read him poetry, sing, pray, and tell stories.
My dad was a man of hope and expectation. As I told some friends once, after witnessing his death, I began to ask myself: how do I need to live in order to be able to die like him?
This morning, I pulled out some memorabilia from the funeral. Alongside his funeral notice and obituary, I found the text of the remembrances that my brothers and sisters shared at the funeral. They are a fitting tribute to one of the heroes of my life.
Thanks, Pops, for everything.
doxaweb.wordpress.com 
Hi Clayton
A moving memorial to your dad, he must be so proud of you and you must give him great joy as a witness to the faith!
On the memorial of Padre Pio, also today, may His special intercession continue to lead you along God’s path marked out for you!
Clayton-I was moved when reading about your dear father. What a great man he must have been and how blessed you and your sibblings are to have grown up in such a beautiful family. I can see how it was that you turned out to be such a good guy.I have prayed for the repose of your dad’s soul. May he rest in peace.
Spent the morning at 44th & Washburn walking where Earl walked, going to mass at his parish. Although Jim was 16 years younger I assume he had some time in that neighborhood. I lingered at Beard’s Plaisance, where Genevieve would be sent to fetch Earl the dreamer from under his favorite tree. I walked Lake Harriet and spent some time in the rose garden. Earl loved roses. Incredibly comforting to celebrate him in that space. It’s as though I got to see him today. Thanks for honoring your Dad. He loves you very much Clayton.
Someday you’ll have to give me a tour of that neighborhood. Would love to hear the stories about your dad as well.