My Dad

Robert David Wieder

April 21, 1945-2011

         The end of last November Angela and I received devastating news that my dad was in the hospital, the cancer returned.   We first learned of the disease seventeen months prior, it was supposedly the worst you could get, but he took it all in stride.  During chemo he was still able to make laps around the neighborhood.  July 2010 we stopped everything and took time to enjoy our family.  There was a trip to the coast, meal after meal, and just days together with time for fun. The following year was great, nothing was too bad, it was a miracle and we felt he was in the clear. It's a wonderful thing, my dad is an encourager, an eternal optimist. 

       We continued to have hope during the beginning of October 2011 when my mom told us he was taking on radiation for a few tumors in his head. We prayed often and had a restlessness while we continued to work abroad two months until the next unforgettable phone call.  That call put us on a long overdue journey home and just in time.  When we arrived in the hospital Dad was laid up in bed from the cells that spread to his spine. But he smiled and only talked about the future possibilities.  No complaints.
       The next week everyone stayed close and fought alongside my dad.  The doctors worked hard to keep the aggressive cells at bay.  My dad continued to fight until his body refused. December 8th he passed.  But he didn't die, he just left. The faith we received through it all was astounding,  a lesson learned while we remember what it is we're here for.  Of all the blessings we can find hidden in the wake we always have optimism, the faith that the Jesus we know is the Jesus we'll continue to know.  Just as my dad has already discovered.
       The night we arrived in the hospital room, Dad had planned a toast, complete with wine Mom snuck in with a thermos and syrofoam cups, courtesy of the break room.  He was encouraging with the little bit of energy he couldn't afford, we all smiled and really lived.  That was the last memory I hold.  My dad was pleasantly waiting for us, just like the heavenly One.  Before long we'll be there again.