We had a viewing for those who wanted to attend. In preparation, myself, two of my brothers, my mother and my dad’s youngest brother not only dressed Dad but also watched me perform some cosmetic genius. My younger brother stood at the end of the casket the entire time, telling me, “I would never do what you do, but it is fascinating.” The next day, we had a graveside service that my dad planned between the conversation with my mom and his death. We ended the graveside with a family snowball fight in the cemetery, 40 or so of us doing what Dad would have done! My dad loved cemeteries. He had spent his entire career in the burial vault and granite memorial business. We concluded with a gathering of our friends and neighbors, sharing his favorite Godfather’s pizza, A&W root beer floats and all his favorite treats to snack on. We shared stories, hearing from those in the room as well as those remotely joining by Zoom. It was fantastic! So, why do I share all the details with you all? I want to confirm to all of you that what we do is important. What we believe in is still relevant. We may get discouraged at times that society doesn’t value what we do. Maybe they don’t understand what we do and why. Maybe they want what we value but in a different package. What was originally planned to be a simple cemetery-only experience of just my mom and siblings turned into events that brought many old friends and family together to celebrate the life of a remarkable man. To view my dad’s obituary, please visit page 18. Continue to do what you do. Listen, teach and adapt. Directors Digest | 5
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