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So I just had to do a rather odd feeling...something I honestly never thought I'd do.

...

I had to update his Facebook.

This was a man that pecked at the keyboard, looking down to make sure he was hitting the right keys. This was a man that probably took most of what I said one ear in and out the other. He...had a Facebook...before me.

Then again, he did do something rather admirable before he died...he drove about 30 minutes away just to set up my aunt's Wi-Fi. I dunno if he just read instructions or was secretly a technical wizard...but hey, I know he was always there to give me a hand when I'm working on my computer's insides.

But man, the heartfelt praise that you see from his friends on his wall...you see him in a new light.

I'm learning a lot about the man over the last few days....and I hate it. I wish I could have learned this when he was here...but in the end, I know that he was a truly good man. All this information I've seen has confirmed this tenfold from all the people he worked with and were friends with...

Oy, can you all do me a favor? If your dad's around, hug him. Even if it's random and without reason, just give him a hug. You just never know how many times you'll wish you did...

I'm so sorry Falcon. To loose your father so suddenly like that must be really hard. I'm glad you let your mother talk to you about him. It must be hell for her. You especially, and your mother, and everyone connected with him are in my thoughts and prayers.

I wish I could give my own father a big hug right now. He's so far away, on the opposite coast. I haven't seen him for several years now, and he's been in such bad health for so long that he's finally given up hope of ever getting better. He was a big part of my life growing up, introduced me to science fiction and fantasy, and as a big technophile he introduced me to the first video games. He too sacrificed so much for his family and others. I really want to go see him again, and let him see how his grand kids are turning out.

I'm going to go cry now.

I saw my dad buried today...the sadness I felt was incredible. The last time I would see my father would be today. I cried more in the last few days than I'm pretty sure I ever have.

...

But now, it's time to continue onward. That's what my dad would've wanted. He was never a guy who would dwell. He'd just keep on going...most of the time without any real direction. And yet he was always getting his lucky breaks. He had a wonderful father (from what I've heard) and a beauitful mother. He had wonderful sisters and a brother that I truly wish I could have met. He married a beautiful, loving woman and raised two sons...one a caring brother and son that you forget is so great sometimes, and me...a man who loved and respected this man from day one.

I'm going to miss the old man...the entire family always commented how I looked like he was at my age. (and it shows) He had the goofiest mustaches and sideburns that you can't help but laugh about. Man, if I had that 'stache picture before, I would have rubbed his nose with it so much.

...*sigh*

He was a good man. He left a huge impact on my life. He deserved so much, and yet he never complained about what he got. He was kind, loving, gentle, and he always gave about the air of keeping you safe and not afraid to knock someone out if they threatened your family. He was taken too soon. He was one of the greatest men I've ever known.

And I will never....ever forget him.

Randall....father....Dad.....
....I'll talk to you later.

-Tom