Sparky, it has been over ten years since we parted and words cannot express the void your passing has created in my life. This past weekend I wore the T-shirt that the girls in the office gave me...you know, the one with our picture. It gave me the greatest sense of well-being.

I received some bad news recently and I wish more than anything that you were here to remind me of just how great life can be...but take comfort in knowing that your memory will give me the strength that I will need to deal with this situation. In life you gave me so much...and now you give me even more...I remember how brave you were in the end and the dignity with which you carried on despite being in terrible pain. I never thought I could do you that one last favor; but seeing you that way and knowing that you were fighting to stay with me, I was able to do what I had dreaded doing...give you the peace you so richly deserved. Your first caregiver came to help you over the bridge and while I cried for the longest time...and still do, I know it is what you wanted and I take solace in that knowledge.

There is so much more I want to say to you but I find myself "tearing up" even as I write this missive. You know I will always love you and will miss you forever. Enjoy your new friends and healthy body. Scooter, Maggie and Mom send their love.

Dad

Please also visit Maggie and Scooter.