My grandfather passed away this morning

Avatar for momtojoeybear
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
My grandfather passed away this morning
5
Sat, 11-18-2006 - 6:10pm

He was either 94 or 95--and his health has been failing lately, not due to anything but old age. He still lived at home, in the house he built on Long Island in the 40's. He gave up driving earlier this year, not because he couldn't, but because he didn't want to pay the insurance on his car anymore... My grandmother passed away in 1997 and he did very well after her passing, learning how to use the microwave, dishwasher and clothes washer... meeting new friends and learning to line dance at the local senior center. Over the past year or so, though, you could tell that he wasn't very happy being ~here~ anymore, that he was, in his way, ready to go... and today, he did. He passed away sometime overnight and according to my aunt, he looked very much at peace, which is a blessing.

Fortunately, we were able to find a decent flight to NY on short notice (we leave tomorrow) for about $300/per person, rt. This is also a blessing, because even though we could have drove, it is nicer not to have to worry about it. We'll be there through Thanksgiving weekend and will fly home on Monday.

If there is a silver lining to all of this, Joey will get to meet one of his aunts, who he has yet to meet. I am a bit worried though, how I will keep him occupied on during the week, with only limited space to take toys and books with us on the flight. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. I hope that all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving--give your families an extra hug for me!

Julie

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-08-2004
Sat, 11-18-2006 - 6:30pm
HUGS to you, Julie. Although it sounds like your grandfather lived a rich and full life, I am sure this is still hard on your family. Have a safe trip. You'll be in my thoughts.
iVillage Member
Registered: 10-25-2006
Sat, 11-18-2006 - 9:17pm

So sorry about your grandfather. Have a safe trip to Long Island. Let us know when you get back!


CL-Wisdomtooth2020

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Sun, 11-19-2006 - 12:18am

Julie,


I completely understand what you mean when you talk about blessings.


Karen ~ wildlucky4me ~

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Sun, 11-19-2006 - 6:49pm
Julie, I am so sorry for your loss I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Hugs, Brenda

Hugs, Brenda 

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-18-2003
Mon, 11-20-2006 - 12:59am

Sorry about your loss Julie!

Hugs~ Lexi

"Shoot for the moon and if you miss you will still be among the stars" ~ Les Brown