Long and winding road

When I first started this blog, I didn't think I would have much to say.  Or that anyone but me would even read it.  But, after 200+ posts, I'm still surprised how wrong I was!

However, yesterday was the first day since August that I posted nothing.  Nada.

And that's because my father, for whom I've been the primary caregiver for the past 6+ years, passed away.  He was short of 90 years old by 5 months.  I don't think he expected to live that long; few people expected that he would outlive my mother what with all of his health conditions, but he did.  And was quite determined the stay in this realm for as long as he could.  At least, his spirit was willing to do whatever it took to stay in this realm, but his body wasn't able to support it.

Here's a bit about him, with surviving family first names and surnames removed:

Frank was born in New York, N.Y. He resided in Linden, NJ, for many years before moving to Winfield Park in 1951. He was employed by Exxon-Mobil Bayway Refinery, Linden, as a chemical operator and mechanic for 40 years, retiring in 1982. Frank was a World War II Army veteran 2nd lieutenant, serving in the Pacific. He was a member of Teamsters Union, Linden, and the Cranford Millburn Camera Club since 1947, receiving many awards for his photography. He was also the township photographer for Winfield and a past member of the Winfield School Board. 

Frank was also an avid league bowler at Linden Lanes, an audiophile, and nature lover, often seen walking through Winfield Park with his many cameras. He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Madelyn . Surviving are seven daughters and one son, and one sister.  He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, five great-granddaughters, two sisters-in-law, many nieces and nephews, and five loving family dogs, and a parrot. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Winfield Volunteer Ambulance Squad.

And from another song:  The road is long, with many a winding turn. That leads us to who knows where. Who knows where.

May the road to Summerland be a smooth one, Dad....