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Dad . . .

2/1/2020

15 Comments

 
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I lost my father. No that’s not true. I know exactly where he is––in heaven, having been welcomed into the loving arms of our Lord on January 20, 2020.

I miss him already, but I am not going to use this space to eulogize him. Like all men, he had his strengths and his faults. Instead, I would like to share with you the inheritance he left my siblings and me.

Strong work ethic: My father worked hard. Having grown up without a father on a farm in Missouri, he knew what hard work was, and he was not afraid to do it. He was also not afraid to demand it. Married at 19, he worked his way through college while supporting his young family at the same time. Though our family may not have had as much as some other families, we never lacked food, housing, or love. Dad also believed that whatever job you had, no matter how menial, you did your best. No short cuts.

Responsibility: First, Dad firmly believed in working, saving, and living within your means. If you couldn’t afford it, you didn’t buy it. End of story. Second, he believed you took care of what you were entrusted with, whether you owned it or not. The homes they rented were as well maintained as the home they built and lived in 52 years. Everything they owned (cars, tools, clothes, etc.) was cared for, and lasted a long time.

Devotion to Family: Dad worked long hours, his job sometimes requiring him to be gone both during the day and the evening, but his spare hours and the weekends were devoted to his family. He rarely missed one of our sporting events or activities. He faithfully helped Mom with Sunday morning breakfast after church, and he would routinely take me out to a nearby tennis court to teach me the game. Holidays were always spent with family.

Generosity: Anyone who knows my parents, knows how generous they are. They invited everyone they met to come and visit, and they would house them for as long as they wanted to stay. They have had visitors from all over the world and from the next town over. All were important. Of course, Dad would want to drive them everywhere . . . Yosemite, the coast, San Francisco . . . even the Grand Canyon . . . sometimes to their guests’ exhaustion, but Dad wanted to make sure that if this was their only visit to California, they were going to see everything!

I will certainly miss my father, but I haven’t lost him. Though physically he is not with me, he is most definitely a part of me. Love you Dad.



15 Comments
Karen Anne Carr
2/1/2020 10:01:11 am

So loving and touching. I'm sure that your dad is so proud of you.

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Jody
2/2/2020 07:21:10 pm

Thank you, Karen.

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Raelene Bonnar
2/1/2020 11:03:05 am

What a lovely tribute to your dad. Both your parents have always impressed me so much whenever I've been around them. They truly had a way of making their guests feel special and welcome. Your dad and my dad shared a lot of similarities due to the fact that they were from the "greatest generation" and both had a deep commitment to the Lord. My prayers are with you, your mom, and the rest of your family during this difficult time.

Reply
Jody
2/2/2020 07:21:40 pm

Thank you, Raelene.

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Debby Poplin-Groves
2/1/2020 11:39:19 am

Jody, I’m so sorry for your loss, but I’m sure it is Heaven’s gain. I definitely know some of how you are feeling. We lost Loren’s Mom November 20th. You will be in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate through your grief.

Reply
Jody
2/2/2020 07:22:13 pm

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It leaves quite a hole, doesn't it?

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Connie (Compton) Meyer
2/1/2020 12:51:41 pm

So very sorry to hear this. Please give your mom a hug for me. I know my mom and dad were in the greeting party. ❤️ Praying you feel the Lord's presence at this difficult time.

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Jody
2/2/2020 07:22:47 pm

Thanks, Connie. Our fathers might be shooting hoops!

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Eloise Mansfield
2/1/2020 01:21:47 pm

Jody, my heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. Your dad was welcomed by a lot of family including mine. I am praying for you all at this most difficult time. Love you all.

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Jody
2/2/2020 07:23:16 pm

Thank you, Eloise.

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Carol Strazzarino
2/1/2020 07:33:09 pm

So sorry to hear. What a great man.

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Jody
2/2/2020 07:23:34 pm

Thank you, Carol.

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Linda C.
2/2/2020 03:39:28 pm

That is such a beautiful and loving memorial to your dad. You, your mom and your siblings have been blessed to be a part of this wonderful man's life. ♥️

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Jody
2/2/2020 07:23:58 pm

Thank you, Linda. And yes, we have indeed.

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Kathy Smith
2/4/2020 05:21:16 pm

Lovingly well said, Jody!

Reply



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    Author

    Jody Eileen Solinski spent her career teaching in the California public school system where she enjoyed helping young adults take their place in society. A native Californian, she enjoys the outdoors and so loves living in Northern California where she can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation up close.

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