Well, I reckon, I have pushed this posting off long enough...I am still in disbelief that Dad is no longer here with us, physically. I can still feel the numbness when I got the news...My work shift could not end soon enough, so I could get there to say, my Good Bye. I prayed that I could make it to his bedside before the time came, but, this time, I was the one too late.
I've known Ray, since getting hired in at Herman Miller in January 2000. From February 2000, he was just a Security Guy at work....by August 2000, we were co-workers, Friends, and now Family.
Ray took me under his wing and adopted me as his Son. From our Weekend Men's Ministry Weekends in Ludington, to our trips to Menards, and to our many, many Breakfasts at Perkins, Bob Evans, Getty Street Grill, Steak 'n Egger, and Cozy Corner Cafe in Cloverville...eating was something we had in common.
No matter what trials and tribulations I was going through in my life, he was always there for me...regardless. His infamous quotes, "If It was me, this is what I would do..." will always make me smile...and "Thats What She Said"...too...always seemed to come in right on cue.
As I reminisce with the many photos and memories of years gone by, I have tears in my eyes knowing that his end of life was coming sooner than any of us wanted. I cannot recollect 1 time that Dad ever complained about how rapidly his life was ending, yet we were all still living. His advice, encouragement, and knowledge...is what has helped me become who I am today...
I couldn't have been Prouder to call him, Dad.
I have been Blessed to be welcomed into the Doan Family: Mom Doan, Uncle Bobby, Aunt Dot, Aunt Rosie, Aunt Lou, and Uncle Jesse...extended Family I can Thank enough for being so AWESOME!
I look forward to the day that we meet again...we'll have alot to talk about...
I Love You Dad...I'll see you when I get there...
Your Adopted Boy,
Kevin Hartman Jr.