A Celebration of Life

​I just came from a wake. I must say is by far one of the happiest wakes I have ever been to, ever.

The wake was for a scooter club friend of mine's father, lets just call him Cheffy.  Cheffy's father passed on last week. He was about 74.

Why was the wake 'happy'? 

Well for one thing the atmosphere was festive. Pictures adorned the parlor. Chef's dad was in all of them-trips with his family, the many happy occasions, his adventures in life.  There were simultaneous slideshows depicting the departed's colorful life and though no words were spoken the theme was definitely one of celebration.  The casket was flanked by his riding gear and one of his bikes....a BIG BAD ASS (pardon my French) Harley Davidson. 

And then there was the music.  Being a music buff myself.  I was taken aback as the melody of the Beatles, Sergio Mendes and other artists of the period serenaded the air via a real live turntable!  If there were cocktails being served, it would have been a full blown party!  The food was tasty and flowing. I particularly enjoyed the freshly brewed coffee.

With other club members I sat and chatted sympathizing with Cheffy and his family. Though the whole time, I was in total awe of the droves of mourning guests that kept on coming.   

Clearly here lay a man, loved by many family and friends alike.

Though Chef is an acquaintance I can see the love he received from his father and his entire family.  More than the finer things in life that they enjoy, they were a loving family that is loved by many others as well.  The material things did not define them. 

I already went there a few days ago to pay my respects, I had to go again because of message from Chef was relayed to club members that he really appreciated the support of the club in his family's dark times and that he was comforted by the club members presence. 

Humbly, the Chef mentioned that he had fewer friends as time passed and that the club effort was such a boost for him. "Few" is relative.  It sure was not a few in my book.

What humility he displayed. Admirable.

It was then resolved that we go again and in full force we were there. True enough, Chef showed that appreciation again.  I was glad to be there for him at that time.

Coincidentally, (Then again I do not believe in coincidences, only co-incidents.) Four years ago today I said goodbye to a sailor that went to sail his final voyage to great ocean beyond. My own father.  As when my mother passed longer ago, the wakes were photographic to my memory. I never forgot who were there for my family and myself.  Amazing how good that felt.  Long time friends and family being with us when we really needed it.  

Let's just say I know how it feels for Cheffy.

Chef I am happy to witness how you celebrated your father's life and how you showed him all the love for his last ride to the great highway beyond. The same place we will all ride to - in God's time. Your Daddy must be so happy and proud of you all. Riding so high he will never die, in your hearts.

I can only dream that when my number is up that I have a farewell like Cheffy's dad.  A celebration of life. Something fitting for a man that lived his life, loved his family and was loved back.

Here's one for our fathers Chef: