Sunday, May 31, 2009

I Love You, Dad . . .

After years of chronic heart disease and a valiant life well lived, my dear sweet father returned to his heavenly home yesterday. I was looking through some photos on my computer this morning trying to find something that would be suitable for his obituary when I came across this photo of the two of us taken Christmas Day 2007. What a treasure this will be to me, as I didn't think I had any pictures of the two of us together that weren't from when I was 10 years old (as I am usually the one BEHIND the camera). This brought me to tears, yet I am so grateful that I have it, as I will treasure it all my days.

I love you, Dad. Your absence will leave a hole in my heart and you will be missed by so many who loved you dearly. I will always be your little girl . . .

Robert Ross Rantz
May 13, 1947 - May 30, 2009

90 comments:

Beth Pingry said...

I'm so very sorry, Wendy. That's a great picture, I'm sure you have some great memories. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynn Mercurio said...

Oh sweetie, I'm so very sorry to hear of your monumental loss. You know my prayers are with you. I know your pain and sorrow which makes it even more personal for me. God bless you in these difficult days ahead of you.

Big HUGS to you my friend.

Jessie/knightrone said...

I am so sorry Wendy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Terry Molineux said...

OMGosh Wendy I am so sorry for your loss. I know how it feels I lost my DAD 9/1984 and I still cry for him. I ache for his guidance. I was pregnant to my youngest at the time and couldn't grieve the way I wanted for fear of a miscarriage...Treasure that picture as I do not have one of us together with me as an adult....

You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers..

Marie said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of your father. I hope that your memories of him and the support of your family and friends will help you to make it through this difficult time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Denise ~ Paper Ponderings said...

What a beautiful picture. So sorry for your loss. I'll say a special prayer for you.

Unknown said...

Wendy, My heart is with you at this time, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. I have been visiting your blog for quite a while as I too am a SU demonstrator but from Australia, so I was quite upset when I read your post today. Take care.
Hugs
Michelle
Australia

Anonymous said...

Oh Wendy I am so sorry to hear of your loss, treasure your Wonderful Memories & that Pic is the Best!
Find comfort in knowing that he is in Heaven, no more tears or pain there.
Lifting you & your family up in prayer to face the difficult days ahead.
Take care & find sollace in your Art, which you do so Beautifully!
Hugs, Sheila happyone286@yahoo.com

Linda McClain said...

Wendy, I am so very sorry for your loss. Your sweet tribute to your Dad really touched my heart. Here's a virtual hug and blessings to you and your family.

Unknown said...

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family Wendy.

susanwilliamsrn said...

wendy, so sorry for your loss. my thoughts are with you during this time.

Cathy said...

I'm so sorry Wendy, Sending you out a BIG HUG from miles away. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers, GOD BLESS!


Hugs Cathy

H. said...

I am very, very sorry for your loss. {{{HUGS}}}

Jayne said...

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Take care. Thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jennifer Aviles said...

Wendy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Big, huge hugs.

Cat Tidwell said...

I am so sorry about your Father Wendy, big hugsss to you and will be saying a prayer for you and you family that God touches you and comforts you in the way you need right now.

KanataNewf said...

Terribly sorry for you loss, Wendy. I am sure your Dad will live on in your memories.

Linda said...

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you. That is truly a picture that you will treasure always. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at these difficult times. ((hugs))

buzzy said...

Grace to you and your entire family.

Ellen said...

Deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. Sweet memories will give you comfort in the difficult days ahead.

{pam} said...

My deepest sympathy on your loss!!!

Sue from Oregon said...

So sorry to read of your father's passing. My heart breaks for you...Hugs.

Ondy said...

I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. I know how you must feel as I also lost my dad a few years ago. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Ondy

There She Goes Clear Stamps said...

I am so sorry for your loss Wendy! My thoughts and love are with you during the difficult time.

*hugs*

Bev said...

I'm so sorry Wendy! Please know that I'm praying for you, friend! Lots of love and hugs your way!!!
-Bev

Patti Beachy said...

I have just stumbled onto your blog and I would like to send my condolences to you and your family. The picture of you and your dad is priceless and something for you to treasure for years to come. I am so sorry for your loss and will keep you in my prayers.

Julie said...

Oh Wendy, I am so very sorry to hear about your dad's passing. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Shirley said...

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I think it is so wonderful you cherish your memories and know he is there for you still.

Melody (lacyquilter) said...

So very sorry to hear of your loss, Wendy. Big hugs.

KOstvig said...

What a great tribute and Treasure!

Love ya

Kim P said...

Wendy...I am so sorry for your loss! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!

Trina Leeson said...

Deepest Sympathies from New Zealand xxx

Deb said...

Wendy, you've been on my heart all day! This is just one of those times that words don't suffice, and I wish I could be there to give you a great big ole hug! I am so glad you found a great picture to treasure of the two of you together!

From one daddy's girl to another! Love ya!

dawnmercedes said...

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. But I know that you will find comfort with the truths that you know. Much love.

Anonymous said...

Wendy, So very sorry to hear of your dad's passing. You seem like a close family and I am sure your memories will keep him in your hearts. You are in my prayers.

Karen said...

Wendy, I am so sorry for your loss. I certainly know the pain of losing your Father. Remember, when you just can't pray, I will be praying for you and your family. I will cry with you too, as I have already. I hope you can feel my hugs, even though I'm not near enough to deliver them personally. You will be strong enough! It's all for your Dad!

Hugs,
Karen H

Beki Ward said...

I received a link to your blog through a feed I receive, it listed several blogs to visit for the "Tour de Freak" in which you are participating. I don't know you but my heart breaks for you. I lost my own Daddy almost six years ago. The little girl in me still sobs for him even though the grown-up I now am knows he's in Heaven and no longer suffering with his heart just as your Dad did. Hang onto the wonderful memories such as this beautiful picture. God will give you peace and guide you through this valley. My prayers are with you and your family.

Meg said...

So very sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. My you find strength in one another to get you through the next few days.

Anonymous said...

My deepest sympathies for you and your family. The loss of a Father hurts very deeply..That's the way I felt about my dad..

patricia

Designs by Deanna said...

So sorry to hear about your father's passing. I feel your pain. I miss my dad every day. He will always be with you though. In your memories, song, even a simple little bird. Please know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this year of the "firsts".

God Bless,
Deanna

Jen said...

May you and your family be blessed with peace and comfort through this difficult time. Cherish the memories.

Hugs!

Jan Castle said...

Wendy...your Dad has graduated! He will see you again in Heaven. In the meantime, treasure your memories and rest in the peace only God can give. Hugs and continued prayers!
Jan Castle

The Bandong Family said...

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Anonymous said...

Ahhh honey, I am so sorry. Lifting you and your family up in prayer.
hugs,
Pam
http://stampsinc.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

Even though we've never met I feel I know you through your blog and I am so sorry for your loss. May your happy memories heal your heart hurt. -- Vicki

KraftyT said...

my thoughts are with you during this time and i know your memories will live forever in your heart
bless you xxxx

Shellys Crafts said...

I am truly sorry for the loss of your dad. I too was always behind the camera. I can't think of a picture of the two of us.
You are in my prayers .
Sincerely,
Shelly

Elizabeth Glass said...

Wendy,
Iam so very sorry for your loss.Hugs,Elizabeth Glass

Marian/Canada said...

My thoughts and parayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss, your father was so young! I too was usually behind the camera, and treasure any and all pictures that I can find of my Dad & me.
Marian

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry for your loss, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandra B

tracymum said...

Beautiful words of tribute for your dad Wendy. The love you shared is very obvious in this picture. What a precious gem to discover. May you know strength and love beyond measure this week especially. Hang in there hun.

Pat Bowman said...

Wendy, I'm so sorry for your loss. What a treasure you have found in that picture. It will surely bring you much joy and comfort in the future. You will be in my prayers through this difficult time.

Vicky Gould said...

Losing a loved one is always so difficult, Wendy. But the blessed assurance you will see your father again will sustain you. I pray for strenght for you snd sll your family as you say good-bye to your father. Big hugs!!

Sandy Knecht said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. Your picture of two years ago is wonderful, but he looks too young to have passed. He is in a better place. I feel your grief. I've been there. The Lord will get you through it. Your memories will help you. Sending Prayers!

Jessie said...

So sorry for your loss Wendy. Sending warm thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

Karinn said...

I am so sorry for you and your family. Please know how much all of us care about you. We read your blog and share your sorrow and prayers. Take care of yourself during this difficult time. We'll be here thinking of you.

Suzanne said...

So sorry to hear of your loss, you're in my thoughts and prayers.

Oma said...

So sorry to hear about your loss. (((((((((Hugs))))))))

Judy McMullen said...

Wendy, I am so sorry for your loss of your Dad. I know your pain as I lost my dear beloved father 6 years ago. I do know that he is where he wanted to be...in heaven with our Lord and all those he loved who had gone on before him. Knowing this gives us comfort but still does not the diminish the loss of not having our dear father in our lives. My sweet memories and the love and support of family and friends sustain you through the coming days. I'll be praying for you and your family to receive the blessings of God's comfrot and peace!

Anonymous said...

Wendy...I am sorry for your loss. I know your heart is breaking, just go with it, it's normal to cry uncontrollably one minute and then the next minute have a memory that you laugh so hard you pee. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers, the next week or so will be difficult. But, have fatih you WILL make it through.
Huggs....Patty

Charlene Merrick (LilLuvsStampin) said...

Sweet Wendy, I am so sorry to learn of your father's passing. My heart breaks for you. What a treasured photo you have, and I hope you find comfort in your memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.

Anonymous said...

Wendy, So sorry for your loss. I lost my Dad 3 years ago. Believe me, there will come a time when you can think of him and talk about him without breaking into sobbing. I believe my Dad is right here with me today, watching over me as my guardian angel. *wink*

StitchenTigger said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad, but he will never leave your heart, he will always be with you. You and your family are in my thoughts.

Tammy said...

Wendy and Family so sorry for your loss. iam sending you a big hug and prayers your way. God Bless you.

DIAMONDFLOWERS said...

My thoughts are with you Wendy. It is sure nice you have this sweet picture with your dad. Loosing a loved one is very difficult! Beautiful memories will bring tears of joy I am sure. My dad is very old and has Parkinson so I try to visit as often as I can. I am going to visit him end of June.

Betty N said...

I am so sorry for your loss. May your family and
your faith sustain you during this difficult time. My
thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kind regards.

RhondaG - The Stampin' Bunny said...

Hugs Wendy! Praying for you and your family! Great picture of you two-I'm glad you have it too!

JanTink said...

Wendy, I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I know you were somewhat prepared, but I know it still doesn't take the pain away. May God comfort you and your family at this time of sorrow.

Judy Rozema said...

Wendy, I am so very sorry to hear this news. My prayers are with all of you as you face the days ahead. I know you will miss him dearly.

What a sweet picture to have and hold dear.

Paula Barin said...

My condolences. May God help ease the pain of your loss.

KAREN KANE said...

So sorry to hear about your Dad. I still miss mine every day since his passing in 2003. He is with his heavenly father and in no more pain. I do hope you take a small measure of comfort in that - I know I did. My greatest regret with my Dad is that there are very few if any pictures of us together. It breaks my heart when I think of that - and I am so glad that you have that one to hold onto and to treasure. God bless

Anonymous said...

Wendy,
Please accept my most sincere offering of Sympathy. I know you are a close knit family and together you will find Peace. So glad about the picure. Please send us your snail mail again so we may send you a card.
TY and God Bless.
KimmieK

The Wired Angel said...

I am so sorry for you Wendy. I know that hole in your heart that you speak of.. God bless you and your family.

Angel said...

many hugs and prayers, Wendy! what a wonderful picture!

Stacy Morgan said...

Oh Wendy I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

Connie M. said...

Wendy, I am so very sorry for your loss. You know you can call me if you need anything! You and your family are in my prayers in this difficult time.

(((hugs)))

Barbara said...

I'm so very sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. My Dad just passed away in mid January, so I know how sad you are feeling. Know that you are not alone, he's watching over you always and will live forever in your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.....remember the good times!

Barbara said...

So very sorry to hear of you huge loss. My prayers are with you. My dad's passed away June 6 a few years back...and he is always with me in my heart.
So Sorry.

Patti said...

God Bless.

Ladybugsinthegarden.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

We lost our Dad (My Mom and my 8 brothers and sisters) on November 4th, 1994....seems like yesterday....seems like forever.

My heart goes out to you. People will tell you times heals all wounds...I do not want to sound mean or crass but that is not true. I miss my Dad just as much as I ever did. I still cry every time I really sit and thing about him....and I think about him every day, but I cry when I really think about him...like when I am in the car by myself just thinking and missing him...to this day. I do not miss him any less, I just don't think about him every minute any more, but I still think about him every day. So that is all time has done for me.

Know that you are not alone....and know that you are in my thoughts and Prayers as I know, that is all I can really do for you.

....Sharon :)

Anonymous said...

First time I came across your blog. I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Heidi Blankenship said...

Wendy, I am so very sorry. My heart breaks for you and your family. I know how close you and your Dad were. Hold on tight to all of the wonderful memories, I know he is in heaven looking down on you and will always be with you and in your heart. I am so happy for you that you came across this wonderful picture of you and your Dad. What a wonderful gift to find, I know you will cherish it. I wish I could be there to personally give you a hug. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Huge hugs to you my sweet friend.

MoonPrincess22 said...

God's Blessing to you & your family in the days ahead. I am sorry for you loss. I pray that you find peace in loving memories & comfort in remembering the love that you share.
Semper Fi.
Kimberly Rairdan
Gold Star Mother of
LCpl Rhonald "Dain" Rairdan USMC

TN Granny said...

Wendy,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, being Daddy's little girl makes it even harder. I lost my Dad over 15 years ago and miss him every day. Remember all the magic moments and know that he is happy with the Lord.
Much love,
Jeanine/Granny SUTTF

VIV SAWYER said...

I AM SO SORRY ABOUT YOUR DAD. I LOST MINE 5 YEARS AGO AND IT WAS TERRIBLE. SO, MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.

Kittie said...

Wendy, I woke up at 3:30 and couldn't go back to sleep so decided to catch up on my blog reading. I am so sorry that I had not read that you lost your father. My heart breaks for you as I know very well the terrible loss of loosing my parents. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope your daughter is recovering well. What a mess you had on your hands. Ugh! Hugs and love.

Vicki G said...

Wendy, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father......... I haven't visited your blog in a long time and was saddened to read the news when I came today. What a beautiful picture of the two of you...Thinking of you,

Vicki

Terre said...

Wendy,

I was sorry to hear of the loss of your father, not to mention your daughter's hospital emrgency. You and your fmily are in my heart & prayers. I wanted to tell you that you are truly an amazing women your strength is beyond words. Hugs Terre

Sharon Harnist said...

So sorry to hear this, Wendy -- my deepest condolences & hugs to you.

Kelley said...

Wendy, I am so srry to read about your dad's passing. I cried tears for you as you can see how much you loved him. My deepest sympathies.