Pasquale A. DelVecchio

Dad,
I never could have envisioned losing you and Mom in 9 months. These losses have left my heart torn apart. To think I will never hear you call me “Trish” or hear that vibrant laugh of yours again is hard for me to accept. The only way that I can ever accept this is to imagine you reunited with Mom, your family and the many friends you lost along the way. I can already hear the laughter that you are creating and picture your infamous tap dance as you greet everyone. I’m certain you are entertaining heaven right now.
When I think of you there are three words that come to mind…Generosity, Humor and Strength. These are the qualities that made you the man you were and the gifts that will forever be your legacy to our family.
There was nobody in the world more generous than you. You gave to everyone, store clerks, bank employees, doctor’s office staff, grandkids, all kids and everyone you came across at every establishment you frequented. And your gifts were all varieties. Flowers, coins, candy, perfectly pressed one-dollar bills, household supplies, folded five-dollar bills and even two-dollar bills. Yes Dad, you were always different. But your generosity was always limitless. You shared with everyone even when you had little. No matter what it took you worked hard to be sure I always had everything I needed and all the extras too. You worked hard for everything you had and depended on no one for handouts.
I think the greatest gift you gave all of us was your sense of humor. No one could captivate a crowd like you. You certainly mastered the creative talent of one-liners and practical jokes. Your personality lit up every room with laughter and smiles. When people remember you they will undoubtedly have a story about something you said or did for a laugh. Dad, you brought much joy to all of us and your smile will live in my heart forever.
You possessed an inner strength like no other. You were strong, stubborn and gritty. And you always did things your way. Your life was not always easy and you faced many difficult circumstances. But no matter what the obstacle you always managed to come out on top. Your resilience was undeniable. Even to the very end when you fought so hard to hang on before taking your last breath.
We’ve been through a lot of challenges in the last few years. It wasn’t always smooth sailing but in the end we both realized that in spite of all the life changes and outside influences our bond as father and daughter was never broken. I know you always loved me and I will always be grateful that when we needed each other the most the love between us was the strongest. Dad, your “Trish” will never forget you and my heart will forever be filled with your laughter.
I love you,
Trish