Marliese (Hoenes) Lloyd
I just wanted to thank all who attended my Dad's viewing or funeral (in person or via technology). I think the past couple of years have been hard for so many and my family has not been spared. Through the difficulties, this will be one of my fondest memories of the past while. I learned more about my Dad and the person he was and the example he set to family and friends. The biggest gift though, was the gift of family and friends he gave through his death. His passing was a Godsend for him but it was hard for us in many different ways. The difficulty of the situation was made so much lighter as I read and heard stories of him, as I was able to connect with old friends in the neighborhood I grew up in, and as I smiled and laughed with family members I have not seen in over 20 years! As I looked around yesterday and saw so many who had come to show their love and gratitude for my Dad and, in turn, to us as his family, I realized that THIS is what counts. These bonds that we form here on earth, these connections we make with others through friendship or by birth, these memories that we make with each other are what we get to take with us as we move onto the next life. The tributes to my Dad weren't about how much money he made or his prestige in his field, but the kind of person he was and who he touched by the characteristics he had been born with and those he acquired during his lifetime. I truly hope that it won't be another 10 or 20 years before I see you all again but, no matter what, I am grateful for this man who brought us all together and who reminded me of what it means to love my fellowman. Thank you all! And, I love you Dad!
