Dad's Funeral

On Saturday March 14th we had an amazing celebration of my dad's life. Many many people in the community came together to show their respect and love for him.

His body arrived at the cemetery via his fire chief's truck 1721. He was escorted by 22 other fire engines from around Northern California (including Herlong, Doyal, BLM, USFS, Susanville, Janesville, and all of the Milford rigs in which he helped amass while he was chief).

Mike and Timber as well as 4 members of dad's fire crew (Rick, Harry, Fred, Ken) were the Pall Bearers.

After a tear jerker rendition of "Make the World Go Away" performed by Bud, the ceremony was officiateded by my dad's sister, my aunt "Pete". Then, my mom, my sisters and I all shared our loving memories of dad. Stew, the Susanville Fire Chief shared a poem to honor dad. Rick, who will be the next fire Milford Fire Chief (who introduced himself as the assistant chief, still honoring dad) shared a story and concluded the ceremony inviting everyone to the fire hall for a reception.

The members of the Milford Fire Department, Timber, Mike, Ry and a few others left flowers on the coffin. Then we lowered dad into that sandy Milford soil. Many people helped bury dad as my mom watched with teary eyes. His grave site is at the base of the mountains he loved, overlooking Honey Lake and the snow geese that winter here.

I am so proud of my dad. It is evident by the sincere gathering of people how important he was to Milford and his family. I was moved time and time again by the support people showed. Thank you all for helping me, my family, and each other through our loss. Saying goodbye to my dad is so difficult...knowing how many people love him and carry his spirit with them is authome.