A tribute to my father-in-law

My father-in-law passed away on Saturday, and I would like to devote this post to him. 

 Dear Nat

I will really miss you but am thankful that you have found freedom again as I know you hated being restricted to the dementia unit you were in, and it was sad to progressively lose more and more connection with you as your mind and body began to fail you.

Throughout the years I have been married to your son you have been like a real father to me, and I thank you for your understanding, interest and caring.

I have loved the great discussions we have been able to share and appreciate your wisdom and knowledge.

I have been inspired by the way you lived out your faith (including over 60 years as a lay preacher), and will always remember how you clung to the commandment to love your neighbour even when your mind began to fail.

You have done so much in your life of 98 years: as a farmer and grazier, as a leader in the agricultural industry, as a member of the Upper House of NSW State Parliament, as an avid traveller in Australia and travelling overseas (and escaping to Iluka in winter for many years), as a fisherman and as an active member of the local community. And there are many more things that I have only heard about.

You loved your family and made each member feel special and loved for themselves, and you took great interest in all our lives. You were a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather – and uncle, brother and cousin and friend. And you were much respected by us all.

Thank you for being my father-in-law. It has been a real privilege to have you in my life all these years.