My stepdad passed away this morning.

[R_of_G]

Thanks, guys.

My stepdad was a real man's man. He did everything at 100%. He used to race Sprint cars in the 60s, and rode both dirt and street bikes. He used to own this 1980 turbo Trans Am and we'd rock out to Bob Seger and Fleetwood Mac tunes while cruising down the street with the T-tops off. That was pretty cool for an eight year old!

He was the one that encouraged me to try guitar.

He was good at business, having built and sold at least three companies that I know of. I remember when he started the last one, a commercial landscaping company, that he would work so hard that he could barely walk when he came home.

He was an US Air Force veteran, having served aboard KC 135 aerial refuelers.

He spent his last years travelling in his RV, going to races around the country, and spending time with Mom and their English Bulldog, Bailey.

The funeral was yesterday. I sure will miss him.

Sounds like a great guy Kat.
You were lucky to have him in your life.
So sorry he was taken from you too soon.

 

[syo]

Hey Kat. I'm sorry I somehow missed your post until now.

Very sorry to hear of your loss. Your stepdad sounds like a terrific fellow. Sounds like you have much to be grateful and (therefore) to grieve for. My prayers and best to you.

 

[Katastrophe]

Thanks again, all... Your kind words have helped - a lot.

It's been a week since my stepdad passed away. I'm worried mainly about my Mom and how she's handling everything. She's keeping busy, and has a list of friends to talk to when she needs it. The family has been coming by to visit as well. This is going to be a long process for everyone in the family, but I'm glad that we're all pulling together.

 

[poodlesrule]

Thanks for sharing the interesting details about your Stepdad's life experience.

Your Mom: It has been our experience with my late MIL, that the recently widowed need close observation.
Well-meaning but busy, my wife thinks she could have prevented her mom from slipping into depression, which brought up some problems, like skipping meals and other things, eventually accelerating her mental health decline.

 

[NWBasser]

I just found this.

I'm sorry for your loss Kat and you have my condolensces.

It sounds like he was an awesome guy and you will have many fond memories of him.

 

[Teleman77]

Sincere condolences and prayers headed your way.

 

[Katastrophe]

Thanks, guys.