I am still catching up, but when I read this moving tribute from Sheri's father I was caught by his words and emotion. Time is too short to be estranged from your children and grandchildren. If one good thing comes of Sheri, Garrett, and Gavin's senseless deaths...it should be this lesson. Distance should never be an excuse not to communicate and family is the most important part of living no matter how divorce affects your egos.
I hope Sheri's father can find a way to become closer to Mario and Angie by sincere kindness and concern. Mario needs his father and he needs his son. I am sure Sheri would tell them all to put the past behind them and embrace the future together.
Her father's post:
May 13, 2009
Sheri,
I will miss you forever.
I love you more than you would ever know as a mortal, (perhaps now you know).
I have always been proud of you as I watched you from afar turning into a women, wife and mother.
But as I have learned in the last few days filled with pain, anger and immense sorrow,
I have also learned of the great things you have done for others in need, the love you shared, and the commitment you had for your faith and your children. My pride is now amplified by a factor of 10. The world is a measurable better place to live because of you. Even with all the wonderful things you have done in your short life, I ask of you (selfishly), please talk to me in my dreams.
Garrett and Gavin,
My sweet grandsons. Before I ever met you, I felt I knew you. You are so beautiful. Your mother did everything right. Please watch over her in heaven. I so wish we could have been closer. The child in me misses you so much. My heart is in a thousand pieces. Watching the two of you grow up and become men, was on the top of my list of lifes pleasures. Now that list is faded and gray.
Mario,
I love you more that you will ever know. You are my only child now. I need you more than ever.
I hope some day you will learn to live with the pain. Please seek help from people you love, (me too).
Angie,
Im in a lot of pain, but I know your pain eclipses mine. You talked to Sheri every week, you had the pleasure of visiting with her and our grandsons. You and Mario were an every day part of their life. But yet, I am jealous. I would rather have your level of pain now, if only I could have been as much a part of their lives as you have enjoyed. My heart aches for you and all of your extended family.
~ DAD
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