Today my papa took his last breath.  Many of you know that he lived with dementia for past decade and even so, maintained his dignity and sense of humor through it all.  Although he was unable to speak coherently for the past several years, his jovial personality and winning smile shined through in every thing he did.  I was blessed to have him with me in San Diego for the past two years and before that my wonderful mother cared for him for several years.  Two words come to mind when I think of my dad, unconditional love. That’s all he ever gave me.  I could never ask for anything more yet today he gave me more.  As I was telling him how much I loved him, what a good father he was, that it was okay to let go and that I would be fine he opened up his eyes and looked at me lovingly.  I said, “Hi papa, I’m right here, it’s OK, you can let go, I’ll always be with you.”  A tear fell from his eye and he peacefully took his last breath and closed his eyes forever.  I love you so much papa.  You are loved by so many and forever alive in my heart- Gary