Words from Dana and Family

Losing my Dad has been the most difficult experience of my life. I was telling my Mom that I don't quite feel adult enough to be without him, even though I am 31 years old. Dad always had all the answers and always held my hand through every phase of my life. He held my hand as I was a baby learning to walk. He held my hand as I went school for the first time and as he taught me to ride a bike. He held my hand as I learned hard life lessons about friendship and love. As I went off to college, started my career, and moved out on my own he was always there every time I needed him. He held my hand as he walked me down the isle to marry Domingo whom he always said was his son, not a son-in-law. And at the hospital when we were all anxiously awaiting Sophia's arrival he was there holding my hand. I feel very fortunate to have been able to hold his hand in return. On Thursday, I was holding his hand and holding my mother as he drifted off to heaven. It was the most pain I have ever felt, but I feel so blessed to be able to be there for him in that moment.

My Dad has always been my biggest fan, proud of me for every accomplishment no matter how small it may have seemed. I have learned so much from my father, but most of all, I've learned to love life, live it to the fullest, always tell your children how much you love them, and never forget to laugh.

For as long as I can remember Dad always said he wanted his ashes to be scattered in the ocean down at Murrells Inlet. As a family, we will be taking a trip to do just this. As we say our final goodbyes, one of Dad's favorite songs, "The rhythm of my heart", seems to be more appropriate than ever. "No never will I roam, for I know my heart is home, where the ocean meets the sky I'll be sailing."