Green Mountain Man, I am so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you are going through, but I wish you and yours the best during this difficult time. I remember the hospice workers telling my sister and I that often our loved ones try not to pass in our presence- perhaps they feel it will be too disturbing to us, and struggle to spare us that "burden", even as we try to "be there" for them.... My sister and I kept a vigil with my Mom as she ended her fight with cancer. My sister left the room for a minute, and she slipped away. Perhaps If I had left her earlier she might have passed more easily...? We do the best we can, and leave those greater mysteries to whatever God we believe in. I wish you well, Jim