Obit: Sparky

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:26 PM

I'll take a boatload of those feelings for you, Kat, and I have step-family experience to lean on. Just keep moving toward the positive, and leave the rest to your pals here. It's what he left in your heart that matters, and you get to keep it ALL.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Peace
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:29 PM

Goodnight, Sparky.

Sorry, Kat.

Bruce

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: open mike
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:36 PM

Oh, Kat, darling...this is salt in the wound!
Blessings on you in this difficult time and I
hope and pray that you are able to find peace
in all of this. I can envision him riding off
into the sunset, and being in a place of joy
and peace. I hope that you will be able to find
that place as well. Was there a will or any
legal documantation which records his wishes?
Try to understatnd that this "other" family
must be feeling his loss as well. Is there
anyone you can turn to for advice and assistance
in these matters? (some times rules and regulations
do not allow simple pine boxes any more)
{{{{{{{{{kat}}}}}}}}}
my heart goes out to you and your family
and I will put on Sparky's songs now to
let his spirit soar!
I hope you might be able to get the tapes
I sent of my christmas radio show....if not
let me know and i will send you another copy!
Close your eyes, and take a deep breath and
when you let it go, also let your anger and
pain and sorrow go. When you breathe in, feel
renewing energy return.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,Nancy King at work
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:38 PM

Kat, so very sorry to hear this sad news. I know you'll miss him, but I'll bet you've got a lot of great memories!

Sending good thoughts your way,
Nancy

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: CarolC
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:38 PM

So very sorry for your loss, katlaughing. You are inded one of the lucky ones for having had such a father. Our best thought and wishes go to you and your loved ones during this time.

Carol and Rob

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 12:58 PM

Oh, my honey, I'm holding you and rocking you in my heart. Just feel how loved you are by all of us. Sparky was a light here on earth and he'll go on shining in your heart.

I'm sending calm, centering peace to help you over the difficulties with the step-family. Keep those deep breaths coming, in.... out... in.... out....

You've given so much love and care and know that a little of that is coming back to you now. Just hold on, we're with you.

Love,
Allison

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,amergin
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:17 PM

Katdarling, I wish I could say something to you that would take your pain away, but I can't. He'll always be alive as long as you and your family hold him in your hearts. Share his stories and songs with your grandchildren and their friends. If each succeeding generation passes them down from parent to child, your dear father will be immortal.

I only knew him through the lovely things you have written about him here. However, I have known people like him. The true cowboy, larger than life itself. It may seem that the world is darker when they pass...but that is only if their stories are never told.


nathan

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Micca
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:18 PM

kat, if you can, let them do what they need to with the old packing case that Sparky came in, we KNOW he isnt in there anymore, he has moved on into our hearts, where he is in permanent residence, and the empty case matters not an Iota, make your own memorial for him in Colorado if you wish to, even if its just his name and dates on a pine board, or a framed pic with a black ribbon in the corner to show that it is a "past picture" hanging on a wall, or simply the place in the heart that he lived in anyway.
He lives on, not in a stone with his name on it, nor a Monument in St Pauls, but in how we remember him.

" The moving finger writes and having writ
moves on, and all your piety nor wit
can't call it back to cancel half a line
nor all your tears wash out a word of it

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Wesley S
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:30 PM

Kat - Take care of yourself and stay calm if you can. I know how those family situations can be. A loss like this can bring out the worst in a person. But it can bring out the best in a person too. Let your best { Sparky's best } come out now even if you are surrounded by a lot of negative feelings. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love - Wesley

PS - When the family is driving you crazy just think how Sparky would have acted in the same situation. As Davy Crockett was supposed to have said - "Be sure you're right. Then go ahead".

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Wesley S
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:32 PM

WHO WILL SING FOR ME ?

By John Thomas Ely

Oft I sang for my friends, when deaths cold hand I see
When I reach my journeys end, who will sing one song for me ?
I wonder who, will sing for me ?
When I'm called to cross that silent sea
Who will sing for me ?

When friends shall gather round, and look down on me
Will they turn and walk away, or will they sing one song for me?
I wonder who, will sing for me ?
When I'm called to cross that silent sea
Who will sing for me ?

So I'll sing 'til the end, contented I will be
Assured that some friend will sing one song for me.
I wonder who, will sing for me ?
When I'm called to cross that silent sea
Who will sing for me ?

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Megan L
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:37 PM

Kat my dear I'm so glad.

Glad he has no more pain.
Glad he gave you stories and songs.
Glad he left behind so many wonderfull memories
and glad he has left you to carry his candle.

If you feel like a cry go ahead you cry for yourself.

Death may steal from us those we love the most
but it cannot steal the memories we keep within our heart
like the fragrance of a rose remains long aft the flower has past
his sweet and fragrant memories from you will not depart.

MeganL

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:48 PM

kat,
My sincerest condolences to you and your your family.
Please convey to sympathy to Bet as well.
Thank you for getting your Dad's music out to us - there's a treasure indeed.
Oh, and stay above the pettiness;
nothing they dod can spoil your memories of him - but I didn't need to tell you that.
Seamus

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Ebbie
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 01:49 PM

I never met Sparky and I have not - yet - met you but you are both very much alive. His 'death' will not change that. Thank you for the gift you and he have given us.

{{{{{{{HUG}}}}}}}

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: DADGBE
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 02:24 PM

Lay down my dear brother,
Lay down and take your rest...

Oh Kat, all love and honor to you and your dad. May you find the strength to face what you need to face.

Love and condolences,
Ray

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 02:50 PM

Cry your fill Kat, as I did when my beloved old Dad died eleven years ago. It helps. Try to rejoice in the fact that he has no pain now, and if you are religious be aware that he is 'Leaning On The Everlasting Arm'. In time you will find, as I do even now, some warm memories coming in to soften your grief. When this happens I like to think that Dad is the instigator of these feelings, just letting me know that he still looks out for me and that his love never dies.   Condolences to you and your family. Thoughts and Prayers.
Burl

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Polly Squeezebox
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 03:25 PM

Dear Kat,

Your father has passed over the bridge into the realm of light, and one day he will welcome you to that land and you will be reunited. It does not matter where his empty physical shell is deposited or the container it is left in - it's all simply a form of energy which will return to the Source. Your father will be with you wherever you or other members of your or his family are. So long as he remains in your thoughts and his songs and stories continue his energy continues to still shine in this world.

Go ahead and cry your fill, but realise that you cry for yourself and for your loss. Then, when you are strong enough, also celebrate his passing, and his being, and the gifts he brought and left in this world.

All Blessings to you,

Pauline.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Jack The Lad
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 03:40 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss, Kat, May his soul rest in peace.
Jack The Lad

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:08 PM

Funny that after we talked last night that Karen asked how your Dad was doing and I admitted not asking you.....said I'd ask next time. Sorry about that Luv...........

You already know what I have to say about this. Immortality is granted only to those who can impact others to the point that they fill the voids in their heart with the memories and pass them along. Your Dad is almost there already. He has been a lucky man to have you to keep him not only vital but to write and remember and often record the stories and songs.....and to have that same person also be so supremely able to pass it along. You were blessed to have him and he will have immortality through you. You'll let us all know when Morgan learns the first of the myriad Sparky tales and songs won't you?

I remember when we were first introduced to him about 6 years ago and I also recall he was a hit with Max and Bert and all of us who gathered for the Mudcat Radio Show. We all are grateful for you sharing him with us.........as ought to be obvious on this thread which reads like a Mudcat Old Timer's Club. (Hi Gang...We all came out of the woodwork for this one didn't we?)

And do yourself a favor and forget the other relatives and all of that. The real thing is that regardless of how or where, Sparky will always be with you. And even better, I'd bet there is one of those places we've heard about where his spirit will be happy to get together with you alone..........You had a great love for each other and that force will always find a way.

The best kind of love can take away the pain,
And the best kind of answer has no sound.

Peaches

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Phil Cooper
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:09 PM

Add my condolences, too, Kat. My thoughts are with you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: vectis
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:37 PM

I'm sorry to hear this Kat. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Mary

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: katlaughing
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:50 PM

There are not enough words to tell you all how very thankfull I am for your kindness and support. I should have said more about the step-family as they really aren't in my face as they could be. He'd been with his wife 30 yrs this coming January. He moved away with her and we rarely had a chance to get together. Of course, that didn't stop our sharing and loving each other. I am lucky in that.

The old cemetery where we kids would like him to be is where all of our ancestors are, including his parents, g-parents, etc., but you know what? Micca and you others are right...it's just the old "carcass" as he would call it, that he used while he was here and if it makes her feel better to have it over there, that's fine.

He was not a perfect man. I don't want anyone thinking that, but he and I had made peace, several times over, talked about any subject under the sun and I am at Peace with his passing. Your words have helped me in that, too. Thank you so much.

Once a friend told me she thought maybe I wouldn't be able to finish the book based on Sparky's oral history until he was gone. I was wondering why I just couldn't get motivated to finish it. Well, now I think she was right because my mind has been full of memories this day...maybe things to add to the book...we'll see. He'd seen a ring-binder prototype of it, so I've no regrets about him not getting to see the end result.

Anyway, I think I am rambling...putting off the toughest part of the day...going to tell my dad's cousin, whom I call my "Aunt" Helen, about his passing. They were very close, she was the sibling he never had. Thank goodness she lives nearby so I can tell her in person.

Earlier today I said to Night Owl, "I keep waiting for the way I think I should feel." That's based on what society says about grief, etc., but my dad and I had a strong spiritual sense of the Beyond and I would bet whoever said he and Alba's dad, Tommy, are probably comparing notes on us is right. Today, at this moment, I feel relieved and grateful. Thanks for listening,

luvyakat

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Joybell
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:54 PM

Dear Kat, We are listening to Sparky's songs. We are so grateful for being able have a little part of him. Thank you so much for sharing him with us. Also for sharing your friendship and memories. Take care. Take yourself off, in your heart, to the wild country where he's surely gone while you have to deal with the awful people. As Micca says he's in our hearts too. Love and gentle thoughts across the miles.
                         Cheery-bye Mr Sparky.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 04:58 PM

KAt . I love you <><<> and tons of hugs . Nothing touchs closer to the heart then the things you are breathing through right now. I realy liked what micca said about the family situation . Its not worth the space it takes up at this indiscribable moment . Im thinking of you all day . Guy

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From:
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 05:01 PM

Hey pal,

I'm so sorry to read about Sparky. It's a big old hole they leave, those parents. I've got nothing smart to say here, only to send my love and big hugs, which I hope will be remembered in those inevitable times when you think about him and realize that he's gone somewhere else.

So...big hugs. Remember that he's left behind a big chunk of himself in you, one of this little village's great people.

D

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,Pete Peterson
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 05:06 PM

Kat--
I am sorry! Sparky sounds like a wonderful guy and it doesn't help today, but as time passes and you can remember the good times, hang on to those times when you can remember the good times!
as for his stepfamily-- it was said above, funerals bring out the worst in people as well as the best. Hope you can concentrate on doing & saying things that will help you feel good about yourself in the day they say's to come.
even in sadness I am quoting Charlie Poole
never thrist Kat
PETE

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: van lingle
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 05:27 PM

My condolences, kat. He sounds like he was quite a guy and he truly left quite a daughter. Dave

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Amos
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 06:00 PM

Dear Kat:

I loved knowing he was around, even though I had only heard his tape. Hugs and condolences,

A

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Morticia
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 06:30 PM

I'm so sorry,Kat and Bet..........(((hugs)))

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 06:51 PM

You are doing it all exactly right, Kat. I'm sure Sparky's very proud of how you've conducted yourself today, inside and out.

~S~

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: emjay
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 06:53 PM

So sorry, but glad you had lots of time to talk about everything and heal any thing that might have needed healing.
I'm sure the other family loved and will miss him, too. You each had different times and have different memories. As others have said you can make your own memorial to him where you want it to be. What they are doing will certainly help them grieve.   How wonderful for him that he had all of you to love him.
MJ

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: maire-aine
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 07:08 PM

Dear Kat, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. But from what I've read, you've been a wonderful daughter-- I'm sure he's proud of you. The next few days and weeks are going to be hard. So gather your family and friends around you, and let them comfort you. Here's one more hug. {{{{Kat}}}}.

Maryanne

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 07:14 PM

I'm sad to hear of your loss, Kat. Losing a beloved parent is too soon whenever it happens. But your dad has left you great memories, songs you can hand on (I know you've already done so), and will certainly be with you as long as any of that remains. On the other hand, maybe at his age and with what he had to bear he was entitled to his rest. It's what life is about. My sympathy to you and your family!

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: jaze
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 08:08 PM

My deepest sympathy too, Kat. Your were lucky to have him so long and to have such great memories. Always remember that and try not to be too sad. Jaze

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,Brendy
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 08:18 PM

Very sorry to hear this kat.
Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family.

All the best

B.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,kmorris
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 08:30 PM

I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad.
I lost mine almost 16 years ago. I wish I
was with you to give you a hug and tell you
that he hasn't left you at all. All that energy
that was....is him is still with you and always
will be.

Best
Kathie

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Boab
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 08:46 PM

I'm with you, Kat; love remains forever, time leaves pain behind. I've been there, once or twice----
Boab

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: IvanB
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 09:29 PM

kat, I'm so sorry to see this as one of the first threads as I log on tonight. There's little I can do or say to ease your pain, but know that my positive thoughts are wending your way to make their small contribution with those of so many others. I know when my mother died a few years ago, the pain was acute and seemed that it would be endless, but I soon realized that we'd said everything that needed to be said to one another and I was the richer for that. Having read your posts about the sharing between you and Sparky over the past few years, I'm sure your experience will be similar.

Your best memorial to Sparky will be in letting us all see that which he instilled in you. I, and I'm sure many others of this community, will be with you in spirit over the next few days. Be well.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST,Art Thieme
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 09:32 PM

Kat, I think I've told you that these days when folks ask, "How are you doing?"---I generally answer, "Just fine; I ignore the rest."----And I do my damndest to do just that. It's hard to do sometimes. You gettin' discommoded by the Sackville Baggins's doing their disruptive thing just isn't good for your own health right now.

Art

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Amos
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 09:36 PM

I suspect he's singing trail songs more lustily than he has in years, and grinning like the cat that swallered the canary. I would be, in his shoes.

A

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 09:38 PM

Hey Kat. I just got my cookie back. I was wondering if Rick has wandered over to welcome Sparky....
A little pickin' and singin' perhaps?
Good thoughts, luv.

Seamus

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 29 Nov 04 - 10:28 PM

Love and condolences to you, kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: KT
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 12:13 AM

Aw, kat, I'm so, so sorry. There is a void around here tonight as we all share the pain of your loss. Know that you are being held, my friend, by more than you realize. Lots of love to you katdarlin'.

KT

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Melani
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 12:18 AM

I'm so sorry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Little Hawk
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 12:28 AM

I hope you are getting through this okay, Kat. The passing of a parent is a huge crossing in life...one which I have yet to deal with. My dad is 81, and I don't think he'll be here 5 years from now. My mother is about 76, and will probably be around for quite some time yet. But one never can say for sure.

I will be sending my thoughts and prayers your way.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 12:38 AM

Kat, You have been blessed with a father that gave you song in your life and heart. That part will never die and I don't think the Spark in Sparky will either. You take care and keep the calm. I send you a hug and my love.
Susie

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: alison
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 12:43 AM

so sorry kat - much love from Australia

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: GUEST
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 01:04 AM

best wishes from the fringe ...

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: alanabit
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 02:07 AM

Sorry to hear the news. I can't say I know how it feels,because these things are different for every person. It sounds like you made a success of that relationship when he was alive, so no doubt you will make a good job of it now too. Will be thinking of you - along with many folks here.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: RichM
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 02:51 AM

I'm sorry for your loss.
Bless him, and you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Sparky
From: Bassic
Date: 30 Nov 04 - 04:05 AM

(((((((((((((Kat))))))))))))))

After the pain and sadness will come the smiles. I think I can see a couple of them in what you have said already. Smile for Sparky and know I and many others will be smiling with you.

Gordon