Today I went to my friend Rick’s funeral.
He went to the hospital a few days ago, with stomach pain and he died. He was 53 yrs old, same as me.
Knowing he and his wife since the late 60’s, I was committed to going to the service. Rick had a hellish growing up because his Parents were alcoholics and they beat on him.
The amazing thing is the church was packed with standing room only. WHY? because Rick made a impact in his life by being a great father and friend.
This was the toughest funeral I have ever been to because Rick died suddenly and his wife Cindy is a gentle and kind person who is going to have problems dealing with this tragedy.
Rick’s son talked about his father and cracked up the audience with this story; Matt remembered when he was 12 and fishing with his grandpa and Rick (Dad)
Matt was catching fish and feeling good! he heard a scream! Matt turned his head and saw Rick half standing hunched over moaning in the middle seat of the boat. Matt became aware that grandpa had begun his cast, but got snagged on something, it was Rick’s rear end! 
Matt said he saw things that day that would stay with him forever! Rick standing in the boat with his pants down and his grandpa cutting the hook out with his pocket knife (it took 45 min.)
Rick’s life was a good example because instead of feeling sorry for himself, he took the challenge of being a husband, father and friend. He also had compassion.
I think there will be a lot more people around here using barbless hooks from now on.
Doug 
We all need a place to say these things. We are honored to be here in your time of need. Our sympathy, of course. JC & LF
Doug,
Thanks for sharing. Sympathy & prayers from here in Ohio.
God Bless,
Mike
I lost my little sister when she was only 52. They told us that She probably had a year to live but in 3 weeks she was gone. The support and even just the presence of Friends and family is very important and comforting at a time like this.
Sorry for your loss I will include Rick and his family in my prayers.
You didn’t mention how old Rick’s son is now. If He is still a kid, He still needs to be taken fishing sometimes.
Barbless for sure.
Rick’s son must be close to 30. Matt lives in Utah, so I probably won’t see him. I have only been reunited with Rick and Cindy, that last 2 yrs. Matt and I don’t know each other. I am very proud of Matt because he showed a lot of guts talking about Rick at the memorial.
After the funeral, I told Cindy that she had a wonderful son!
My advice is to LOVE your kids, no matter what, and tell them often.
Rick’s funeral was a testimony to everyone that had it tough growing up and rose above it to be good person.
Doug
Doug,
You have my thoughts and prayers as does Rick’s family. When you remember your friend, remember that story and you will smile. Blessed are we that have such people touch our lives.
God bless you my friend.
Very tough Doug… sorry to read it. Good luck to all involved.
Dear Friend Doug: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Author:Bonnie Jean Wasmund
My mom died at age 52 also and it too was sudden. We all have a load to carry, some more than others. Our families sincere condolence to you and yours. Jonezee