Mark S. Wilde

 

Mark S. Wilde

April 22, 1952-February 8, 2013

4 weeks ago my life changed. Not a day has passed that I haven't thought about my dad. He taught me so much. He was such a shining example to me. He touched so many lives in his quiet way. He will be missed in more ways than I can even comprehend. 

His physical suffering is finally over. Last October the doctors informed us that there was nothing more they could do, after a year and a half of treatments for stage IV bladder cancer. They gave us 9-12 months. He was gone in 4. So much faster than we expected. Hospice was such a blessing.

I wanted more than anything to pay tribute to my dad at his funeral. I have been blessed with an overwhelming peace and comfort. With my emotions mostly in check, I was able to share the memories I treasure. So many friends and family traveled to be there for dad's service. Their love and support has been amazing. While the it was a little on the long side, almost everybody in attendance told us that it was the best funeral they had ever been to. People said they could have sat there all day listening to and learning more about dad.

While there is joy that dad is no longer suffering, the grief in the separation can be a heavy burden. I am so grateful to have the close family that I do. I have the greatest mom, sister and brother a girl could ask for. I know that we are an eternal family and that we will be together again.

There will be so many things to come, so many times dad will be missed. I'm sure there will be future blog posts about the grieving process and posts about happy remembrances.  My dad is my hero and I am grateful to have had the time I had with him.

--Natalie