Eulogy for Dad

Delivered at the conclusion of his funeral Mass on 1/12/10

On behalf of my entire family, thank you so very much for being with us today to honor and remember our Dad, Paul Vidmar, a truly wonderful man.  We invite you to please join us for a luncheon immediately after Mass in the church hall.

 

You all know that Dad was a very simple man…he didn’t like a lot of fuss and fancy. 

Our Dad, grandfather, companion, brother, uncle and friend was a shining example of unselfish love of family – always giving and never asking anything in return. 

With the loving wisdom and strength of Grandpap and Grandma Vidmar as his guiding stars, he taught us so many life lessons that we give thanks for today. 

 While the last week has been very painful, Paul, Margie, Stella, the rest of the family and I have also been sharing the cherished memories of Dad. And, through the tears, there has also been much laughter.  

No one can forget Dad’s jolly nature and ever-ready smile.  He had such a boisterous way of greeting you…he was not the most patient man and didn’t like to sit still for very long.  Within 20 minutes of arriving for a visit….he was ready to return to the comfort and retreat of his home.

As his lucky children, we have each tried to live our lives according to the lessons our Dad taught us.  Whether it was passing on all his knowledge of baseball and teamwork to Paul, teaching Margie to ride a two-wheeler and offering her a strong, steady shoulder whenever she needed it, or drilling me on my math tables ( a problem there with the pupil not the teacher!!) OR engaging us in some heated political debate -- Dad was our inspired LIFE COACH.  

We remembered growing up in our home on Saxonburg Boulevard and the enormous, ancient oak tree that bordered our property.  Under its shade we sought relief from summer heat, played in its fall leaves and laid on our backs for hours in awe of its gnarled, expansive branches.  Like that giant oak, Dad has been our refuge -- rejoicing in our triumphs and providing strength in our need.  

Courageous, fiercely loyal to family and always the optimist, Dad has been a shining example as he has so generously offered his heart of gold.

He was also so very proud of his grandchildren.  They have been a tremendous source of joy and happiness. Like……. 

Teaching Ryan how to snag a fish during one of our fun-filled family reunions at Deer Lakes, or……. Relishing the chance to offer Colleen Lucky Charms cereal, when she could only get Cheerios at home and later offering them both the example of caring deeply about the world and the importance of standing up to proclaim their beliefs. And……. Attempting at 70, to ride a scooter with Kierah, teaching her Gin Rummy, attending all her concerts, or taking her for chili dogs, and…..  Spending time to read to Erika, bringing her puzzles and challenging her with more and more difficult ones.  Later, he offered and support --  as he listened to her creative writings and songs. And…. Admiring Tyler’s athletic skills as he attended one of his baseball games or one of his plays and attending Grandparents Day with him…

PapPap took pride in and loved you all for your individuality and independent spirits.  

For the last 10 years – Dad was blessed to have the companionship and very special relationship with Stella.  What a love story!  Childhood friends, who reunited and enjoyed many good times. 

Dancing, traveling, casino bus trips, movies, Stella got Dad out of his chair, into a part-time job and living again!! She cared for him during his health challenges and loved him beyond words. Stella, we are so grateful to you = please know you’ll always be part of our family.  

Dad, today we weep your loss, but you will forever live on in our hearts – where no pain will reach you.

Every day, you WILL Continue to inspire us---

To enter each day with a generous heart.
To serve the call of courage and love
Be at peace now with Grandma, Grandpap, Aunt Julie, Mom and all those in heaven who loved you. What a reunion! Complete with trumpets and polka music! 

In YOU we have one very tough, very special angel.

 

Dad, Until we see your beautiful face again
In that land where there is no more separation,
Where all tears will be wiped away,
Where we will never lose you again.

Thank you for the time on your strong shoulders – for raising us up -- to be ALL WE CAN BE…

We are ever grateful and will always love you.