randomly snarky

I rarely get too personal on my blog but I've officially become an open book. I've been doing verbal overshares all weekend.

Here's a link to my Dad's obit and the text. Even in my grief I must fix the typos. Ugh. But the printed paper did include a nice flag graphic which was so Dad. Very cool.

Ocala Star Banner - Des Austin
Desmond G. Austin, 67, beloved husband and father, passed away at home November 28, 2007 of natural causes. Desmond was a former Marion County Republican chairman, a retired paper industry executive, and U.S. Army veteran. He was a lifelong volunteer for educational causes.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Desmond is survived by his wife, Mary Eleanor; daughter Lucy Suzanne Austin of Ashburn, VA; brothers William and Joseph, both of New Jersey; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Desmond was predeceased by both parents, a sister Maureen, and brothers Patrick and Peter.

It's like the world's shortest hightlight reel: Dad in 10 seconds.

If you're wondering, Dad had not been ill. He was home here in Ocala readying their house for the holidays and planning to be a volunteer tutor in the new year. He has been very active and happy and seemingly all was well. We are grateful he passed peacefully in his sleep. 

The suddenness is shocking and we had no time to plan for the grief. And while we have a very large extended family and networks of friends, it really comes down to just mom and me.