Condolence: Daddy Eulogy-Aug 2012
How can I eulogize our father and do any kind of real justice to him? This is truly a difficult task, to say the very least; as he was many things to many people. I could share a million funny stories, or the many ways in which he helped me through difficult times… tell you how he’s been everyone’s rock, everyone’s heartiest laugh, or brightest day, but if I took that road we’d be here forever and I’m sure my father wants the celebrations to begin. As this service is, in fact, a celebration of a life well lived.
For those who didn’t know my father well, I’ll try to briefly describe him to you…. First and foremost my dad had a great since of humor. His humor was finely tuned and even to the last of his days he was as sharp as a tack and ready to roll. He was the definition of quick wit. He loved a good joke or witty comment, even at inappropriate times or during somber functions. He was often first to offer, or laugh at, a quick one liner or a pun. He would battle quip for quip and duel, usually victoriously, in word play. In humor of all types he found delight, and in the faces and actions of children (especially his grandchildren) he found the most humor.
Other interests included crossword puzzles (in pen), scrabble, poker, Oriole games and the Ravens. He liked old movies, radio program recordings, Norman Rockwell and blondes. While he was still able he enjoyed a night out, a family gathering, restaurants and his “hour of sin” (which meant a good cigar and a straight up Vodka Martini; chilled with three olives…. or slightly chilled with one ice cube and three olives, or two cubes and one olive….not that he was particular.) A better man with, or without, that “hour of sin” would be hard to find. As a Dad, I believed him to be absolutely perfect. As a grandfather …Awesome!!! He loved each and every one of us and somehow found a way to make us all feel very special to him.
Dad was extremely kind, selflessly generous and a lover of nature. He was well read, intelligent, responsible, honest, strong, supportive, and respectful. He was encouraging, compassionate, devoted and patriotic. He was funny, playful, loving, gentle, forgiving, sensitive, trusting, charming, witty, gracious and humble… He was raspberries, tickles, teasing and smiles. He was hugs and hilarity, a firm hand, a strong shoulder, a welcoming Hello and a parting kiss.
If I continued writing for pages I’d never finish listing his positive characteristics. If I stood and spoke for hours I’d never be able to sum him up completely. He was both a complex and a simple guy. I’m sure I’ll find no argument from anyone when I simply say that he was a sweet, sweet man.
We who are his children, grandchildren, relatives or friends have been truly blessed to have had him in our lives. It is my opinion that we should all give thanks to God for creating such a wonderful human being and allowing each of us the opportunity to know him and to share our hearts and lives with him. Let us continue in celebration of the life of Leo John Nelson. Although he will be sorely missed on this earth by many who have loved, respected and adored him, he now resides in God’s kingdom. For this too we should all be truly grateful.
Daddy is now at peace… all his pain has passed and he is in the very good company of Jesus Christ and many other loved ones who have passed before him. They have all been, as we one day will be, reunited in friendship and love. I pray that they continue to watch over us as steadfastly as we pledge to watch out for each other. As odd as it sounds, with Dad’s passing, I can’t help but believe that even Heaven… is a better, brighter, stronger place today, than it was only days ago.