Old Old Hawaii Memories
Even After 35 Years, I'm Still Discovering Maui

Death and Life

On Sunday, August 21, my stepdad of almost 30 years, died. Jack was 87. His health had been getting worse and worse over the last few years and especially in the last six months. His wish was to be at home at the end with no extraordinary measures to prolong life and that's how it happened. He died peacefully with my Mom at his side.

Jack

Jack was a very practical and low key kind of guy so he didn't want a funeral or a service.

I'm glad I was able to be here in June to visit and to come again this week to help my mom. Yesterday was especially touching as we went to the mortuary for one last visit and saw him before he was cremated. He looked just like Jack, though with a few bruises from a recent fall. Mom tucked a small package in with him that included his winter fuzzy house slippers, some cat nip and a cat toy from Belle (their cat), some notes and photos and of course, a few Red Hot candies. If you knew Jack, you knew about his love for Red Hots. Mom said her last good-byes and I said a quick one - It's always hard to say good-bye. Then we watched as they placed him in the crematorium and closed the doors and started it up.I am so grateful to have been there to witness it.

So long Jack. Everyone will miss you. Spreckelsville and Baby Beach will not be the same without you.

Comments