Armando's dad passed away last Thursday, May 29th. It wasn't exactly unexpected, but at the same time, I don't thing anything fully prepares you for the loss of a parent. Armando is getting by, I guess, keeping himself busy (his brothers & sisters all are doing this really), but I think he slowed down enough on Monday (viewing/memorial) and Tuesday (funeral) to take it all in. As for me, I'm not sure how I should react. I've known his dad for about 4 years, and it's really only been in the last couple months that I've started to feel close enough for him to feel like family. Don't get me wrong, I miss him, but it all seems to pale in comparison to Armando. I mean, this is the man who raised him, and had a huge impact on the man that he is today.
I will miss his smile. Armando Sr. was a warm, compassionate man. He had a smile that could instantly put you at ease. He was incredibly proud of his family and children, and never hesitated to tell you stories about them. In fact, before meeting his dad for the first time, Armando issued a warning to me about two things: 1.) He is going to pull out the baby pictures and go over each picture with you; 2.) He is going to tell you about the Mormon religion and try to convert you. Armando Sr. was very active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and shared his faith whenever possible. He didn't try to convert me that first visit, just simply asked me the question "Do you go to church?". Over the following years, we had several long conversations about religion, mostly him talking about similarities/differences between his faith and mine. He never did try to convert me, but respected and listened to my beliefs. That is one thing I will always cherish.
He really wanted to see us have children. He started dropping hints before we were married. Dancing with him at our wedding, he asked me"Well, when will I get to see some grandbabies?" Nevermind that he already has six grandchildren (his "Squeakys" as he liked to call them), each and every grandchild was special to him, and he always wanted more. My sister-in-law commented that she was sad she didn't get to have children before he passed away, but commented that "in our religion we believe we are with our Heavenly Father before we are born, and well, maybe Dad will get to meet my children before I do" I have to admit that this is a comforting thought to me as well.
This seems like a awkward place to end this blog, but I really don't know how to wrap something like this up. I will end with this: I'll miss you, Pop.
1 comment:
So sorry to hear about your loss.
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