JOHN LESLIE WAGSCHAL

  

Born:    15 May 1940
Died:     22 October 2002

 

Dear Dad

It is hard to believe, but it has already been one year since you left us. My world has not been quite the same since I lost you my dear friend, my mentor and you my father. I cannot begin to describe how much I miss our talks and walk’s, I miss your advice, your voice, your hand on mine, I miss your gentle and soothing smile that always helped me to be calm and to smile as well. To you…. family was so important and you did everything for us. Your dedication to family and friends was so admirer able; you were such a beautiful person. Many people have told me that “the apple does not fall far from the tree” and that we are quite alike…..I can only hope to be a man like you were.

We all go through many journeys in our lifetimes each journey is so unique and special. Sometimes the journey comes to an ends and then we all wonder why?

A year ago today, after I had heard that you were finally at peace, I was thinking about you…. dad and then I wrote you a goodbye letter. You told me once “I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge, that myth is more potent than history. I believe that dreams are more powerful than facts that hope always triumphs over experience, that laughter is the only cure for grief. And I believe that love is stronger than death. “Death is a challenge; it tells us not to waste time... it tells us to tell each other right now that we love each other."  These words have stayed strong in my heart throughout this past year and will always hold a special place inside me. I just wanted you to know that I know you are with me and us all….we all miss you!

 

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Here is a small poem for you;

 

“Dad...so many images come to mind whenever I speak your name; it seems without you in my life
things have never been the same.

What happened to those lazy days when I was just a child; when my life was consumed in you
in your love, and in your smile.

What happened to all those times when I always looked to you; no matter what happened in my life
you could make my gray skies blue.

Dad, some days I hear your voice and turn to see your face; yet in my turning...it seems
the sound has been erased.

Dad, who will I turn to for answers when life does not make sense; who will be there to hold me close
when the pieces just don't fit.

Oh, Dad, if I could turn back time and once more hear your voice; I'd tell you that out of all the dads
you would still be my choice.

Please always know I love you and no one can take your place; Years may come and go
but your memory will never be erased.”

 

Your loving son Wolf (ie)