Goodbyes

This morning I wrote my father's obituary.  I don't know why, but I wanted it here:

Norbert H. Voss, known as “Bob” to both his family and friends, passed away Sunday, April 25, 2010 in Florida at HealthPark Medical Center.  He was 59 years old.

Bob was born June 19, 1950 in West Germany and came to America in 1954, settling in River Vale, New Jersey.  In 1969 he started with IBM in the mailroom and worked his way up to Program Director, retiring to enjoy life at age 52 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where he could always see the ocean.

He is survived by his wife Anita, his mother Irmgard and sister Annette, as well as by his three children: Christopher, Karen, and Jason.  He is further survived by two grandchildren: Amelia and Jack, as well as a multitude of friends who loved him and all of whom he considered family.

A private memorial service was held on the beach Tuesday, where his life was remembered and celebrated, and where those who spoke echoed the hearts of all who knew him.  Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Goodbye, Dad.  I would give anything to have back the time we didn't talk, and to know that in the end you knew that it never changed the fact that I loved you, and was fiercely proud to be your son.