Thank you all for the thoughts, prayers, and smoke. It means more than you'll know.
Oddly enough, I'm usually exceptionally tight lipped about personal and emotional matters but over the past year I've watched the Yard help brothers through a lot of hard times. Knowing the Yard's genuine concern for each other made it possible for me to trust in you all.
My dad and I left a lot of issues unsettled. There were things we needed to say and do, but it didn't happen. However, I know my father's faith and that one day we'll be able to start over and have the relationship we both wanted.
PoP, my dad's name was Gary Thomas.
We have finalized the arrangements. We'll have visitation and a regular service in Alabama next week. The following day he'll be brought to my home town for a military burial.
It will be a while before I can return to the yard, but know that my family sincerely appreciates all of you.
Thank you all again,
Gary Thomas II
I am really sorry to hear about your loss.
My dad has been gone for some time but I find him standing very near when I hear myself say some of the same things he said or I look in the mirror and see him looking back at me with an expression he would have made.
I will keep you, your sister and family in my prayers
Dan
