My dad was the most important person in my live, especially growing up. I favored him in my eyes and hair color and my personality. I had other siblings, but I looked like my dad completely and I was so proud of that. You see my dad, to me, was perfect. He was loving, kind, always there for me and most importantly I knew he loved me more than anything in the world as well as all his kids and his family was the most important experience of his life.

He died way too young, and my world was gray for a very long time. I could see no color in life for a long time. I, of course, was mourning his loss. But when you love someone so deeply, their memory stays with you forever, and their sayings often come out of your mouth and many times during the day or week you have a problem and you say what would dad do in this situation and then you feel comfort that he imparted so much in you growing up that you never will truly be without him.

I also lost my sister and brother young in my life to a car accident and my brother was run over in the street and died 12 hours later in the hospital. He was my only brother. These tragic losses were hard for me for many years but I have wonderful memories of my sister and my brother that I cherish.

Its so comforting when you suffer such a great loss to have the memories and the times you had together in your heart forever and ,of course, there were times maybe not so great, but you really don't remember those too much, you just try to remember the good stuff. To have a good parent is a treasure far beyond measure. It makes all the difference in your life as you end up being a part of them when its all said and done, because a good role model and example is what you will retain, the bad parent will leave a mark too, but maybe not the kind of influence you really want. I'm thankful I had a good dad, I think for a girl that is so important especially since as a woman now, its formed who I am.

Learn more about this author, Jeanne Sones.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about How does the death of a loved one affect you??
We want to hear your view. Write now!