My dad passed away today twelve years ago from colon cancer. Let me first start by saying as eloquently as I can, Cancer Sucks! My dad was awesome and he fought his battle like a warrior. My mom, wow, she cared for him like no other person could. I admire her strength.
So, what was my dad like? He married my mom when he a was a police officer back in Italy. They had a son and when she was pregnant with her second child they came here to America to find a better life. They stayed with friends and my dad began working in kitchens and finally at General Motors. They bought a house in the Bronx and had 2 more children. Eventually they rented that house as apartments and bought one upstate. My parents opened their own business selling statues. They put 3 children through college and 1 through trade school. My dad loved America as well as his country of origin Istria.
My dad loved to dance and listen to music. He was the life of the party and he loved to party. We always had people over the house and the food and wine flowed freely. He loved to argue his point especially about politics. He was a strong believer in God and never missed Sunday mass. He was both strict and loving.
So, today as much as I miss him. I celebrate him. He really lived. I feel him with me everyday. The most important thing my dad ever said to me was to learn to be independent. That no matter what, I should always be able to take care of myself and not be trapped in any circumstance. Wise words from a very traditional man.
Marisa tribelli says
Beautiful! I remember your dad when we lived in Pearl River! Your parents
Looked amazing together!
Milena Barrett says
Thank you so much for the wonderful thoughts!