Tuesday, August 16, 2011

One Year

Friday was the one year anniversary of Dad's death.  I think I've run out of eloquent ways to say that I'm sad and that I miss my dad, but it still hurts even after a year.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

The Beach

We went on a family vacation this past week. We always talked about going but never quite nailed down the plans. It was an awesome house right on the ocean with panoramic views. We saw dolphins swimming by everyday. It wasn't dad's beach but when I see any beach I think of my dad. Mark and Mingo showed us that they were expert shark fishermen. We had a sandcastle contest, and even though The Ropers Dice and Erika's octopus was awesome, Dana's sea turtle took the jackpot. We played games at night after each of us took a turn cooking dinner. We all enjoyed the vacation and even made a day trip to Savannah and ate at Paula Dean's restaurant.
Friday marked the one year anniversary that Dad passed away. It is a void that has yet to dissipate, but we are all getting by as best as we can. I find it fitting that we were altogether as a family on that anniversary; that is they way dad would have wanted it. We shared some great and long over do laughs, the kind of laughs that Dad would have instigated.
We all are dealing with this in different ways. Some of us are quiet about our feelings and some of us are a bit more verbose while others are somewhere in between. The main part of the statement is that we are dealing with it. It hasn't been easy for anyone, but Dad would sure be proud of all of us with how well we are adjusting. We take it a day at a time, but we take it together.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Guest Book Entries

Dad's guest book is scheduled to be removed from the website, so I wanted to post the messages here:

January 24, 2011
Woo Hoo, Dad! The Steelers are going to the Superbowl! We wish you were here to watch with us, but we know you will have the best seats in the house!
December 26, 2010
September 15, 2010
Hey Dad,
This weekend we went as a family to the Beach. We took Heaths boat down to Murrells Inlet and placed your ashes in the water that you love so much. We can't fathom what we are going to do without you here on earth. You tought us the importance of family, and as a family we will manage. You have given us that great gift. We will love you always and will always keep you with us. We will see you again on Gods golden shore.
Love Always,
September 05, 2010
  
Carol, Amy, Dana, Danny, Aunt Peg and families: Every time you think or talk of Bruce you can't help but smile and/or laugh. He was such a blessing to us all. Bruce will truly be missed. God Bless, Love you all, Dorothy (Lewis) 

August 22, 2010
Carol and family, we were so sorry to hear about Bruce.
Whenever I'd come visit Gilligan and Mrs. Howell we'd meet Bruce for lunch at Christophers. He always had a smile on his face, a Crown Royal in his hand and jokes to share. You couldn't be sad with him around because he always had a way of making you feel better.
He brought joy to more people than he'll know and he'll be remembered for a long time.
Y'all treated my Sis and Alan like family and they treasure all of you deeply.
Bless all of you and may God give you an extra hug during these difficult time.
August 21, 2010
You were a great friend to me Skipper. I enjoyed the time,laughs,and have many wonderful memories.For just a little time in my life, you made a tremendous impact.You were reallly helpful to me. I will never forget you as long as I live. So many things remind me of you. I wish I could just pickup the phone to talk.I love you and will miss you so much! (The Gilligan) Alan Bodman

August 21, 2010
It's been a little more than a week. I already miss you. Love, Barbara Bodman

August 20, 2010
Dear Dad, I can't believe you're gone. Eight days has seemed like an eternity. I feel like I miss you more every passing day. Life is never again going to be the same. You were our biggest and fan we will continue to live our lives trying to make you proud. You were a wonderful father, wise and strong. We pray that we can give Sophia the same kind of up bringing that you and Mom gave to us three kids...a childhood full of laughter and excitement. You'll forever be in our memories. We love you more than words can ever express.
Always, Dana, Domingo, and Sophia (Gracie to you!)
August 19, 2010
We all have a Bruce story and I am saddened that I did not make the services - hopefully we will all be able to share them soon. we will miss you Bruce, its just so hard to realize that you arent getting ready to walk through the door.
Sean Smith,
Charlotte, North Carolina
  

August 18, 2010
I am so sorry I missed the services. You all are in my thoughts and prayers, I know he is missed by all who him. Hold his smile in your hearts forever.

August 17, 2010
Dad,
We were all so blessed to have you in our lives. I know how much you loved us all. From time to time I am still going to ask you for adice...you always had the right answer. We will love you always.
P.S. You're handsome and you're the boss

August 17, 2010
My condolences & prayers of strength are sent to all of Bruce's family, Carol & his children. He's now in a place of peace & I hope you can find some peace in knowing that... you carry him within your hearts.

August 16, 2010
and say THANK VERY MUCH
Love Always
August 16, 2010
Dear Peg, Carol, & Family,
May God Bless all of you in this time of sorrow. You all are in my prayers.

Obituary

I wasn't sure if this was going away too, so I decided to post it here as well:

Bruce Hannon, 58, of Matthews, passed away Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, NC. Mr. Hannon was born June 17, 1952 in Pittsburgh, PA, the son of Margaret Bozurich of West Mifflin, PA and the late Michael Bozurich. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Keith Hannon. Bruce retired after thirty-four years of proud service with Sears and Roebuck Company and he was a Past Master of Masonic Lodge 641 in McKeesport, PA. In addition to his mother, Bruce is survived by his beloved wife, Carol M. Hannon; children, Amy Roper (Mark) of Cayce, SC, Dana Palos (Domingo) of Charlotte, NC, and Daniel Hannon (Erika) of Concord, NC; brothers, James Hannon of Valrico, FL and William Hannon of Pittsburgh, PA; and by six grandchildren whom he dearly loved. The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, August 15, 2010 at McEwen - Mint Hill Chapel. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 16, 2010 from the funeral home chapel with The Reverend Earl Bradshaw officiating.