You know in this time of political turmoil and alternative truths, we often forget the things that are truly the most important to us. We tend to overlook the things in front of us. I could write two whole pages on our Moron and chiefs lies and innuendoes. On Sarah Sanders vaguely veiled half-truths and outright falsehoods. On this once conservative Republican party. But reality, regardless of Trump, kicks in and reminds you of an eternal truth that cant be changed, altered or rewrote. Death is certain.
On Monday, May 28th, 2018, between 9 and 10 pm, my father, Richard Franklin Johnson, 74, went to be with my mother again. Mom, Mary Louise Johnson, had passed away during her 74th year of life too. None of us were prepared for his or her passing. He was healthy, active and young at heart till his passing. He was still working as a Paramedic. His third career. He worked for Conrail, Thompsons Consumer Electronics and Then finally as a paramedic.
He wasn't the most loving father. He didn't get "huggy" and "kissy". During my childhood, I only remember once him saying he loved us. But we knew he did. He taught us a strong work ethic. We worked from early in our teens, we often worked for the family. Then, we hated it. But he taught us to do many things that later in our lives people would be in awe that young adults would be able to do, and so well. Doing commercial floor stripping and waxing was just one example.
He showed us many things over the years, for which I will forever be grateful. After my Moms passing, he softened some. He showed a side of himself I always knew was there. He often told my wife and myself he loved us. He also told me if "Lorraine ever needed anything, just ask". Something I found hard to do, ever. Dad was always my last resort.
He was the strongest male role model in my upbringing. We often disagreed and argued politics, religion, and current events.
He was the reason I chose to be a conservative Republican till recent events made me question my choice. Through it all, he was there for me. When Lorraine was diagnosed with Dystonia, he pushed to get me on at Thompsons for insurance coverage. I had been a Chef for over thirty years. But with his help and suggestions, I achieved full-time status. I got the insurance for my family too.
I was so proud of him. I loved him. I will miss him forever. Rest in Peace Dad. We got this now. We love you. You will be sadly missed!