November 6 - Dad's Gone

We knew our time with our dad was coming to a close, but we thought we had a few more weeks.  Nothing could have prepared us for the shock of losing him so traumatically Sunday night.  Those of us who witnessed his physical pain are still struggling to come to terms with it.  However, after medical intervention finally allowed him to go to sleep, we had a peaceful and spiritual five hours with Dad before he died at 11:37 PM. 

In the days since then we have been busy, as a family finishing preparations for the funeral and burial, preparations which were begun by Mom and Dad before he passed.  I'm not sure how individuals with small families manage to accomplish all that needs to be done prior to the funeral.  Mom and all of kids have been busy with various tasks, which has likely been a blessing for now.  We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support we have received from so many.  We are grateful for food, babysitting, kind words, and shared memories. 

There will be a viewing this Friday night from 7:00 to 9:00 at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.).  The funeral will be this Saturday, November 9th at 11:00 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Bow Valley Chapel (2526 – 24 Avenue N.W. - on Crowchild Trail, just north of McMahon Stadium). 

Our family would appreciate if you would wear a poppy to Dad's funeral in honour of our fallen soldiers. Dad loved to tell stories of brave Canadian soldiers and wore a poppy with pride every Remembrance Day.

To read Dad's extended obituary go to: http://www.mhfh.com/blumell-john/.