One less democratic vote in Ohio
With 91 years in the bank, my dad passed away Saturday.
Born in NJ, raised from infancy in the Scottish Highlands, he was a democrat's democrat from the day he reclaimed his citizenship by birthright and moved to Chicago. We always knew his political claim to fame - driving for Adlai Stevenson at the '56 Democratic convention in Chicago. He loved nothing more that telling the story of Stevenson and several other top Dems talking in the back of the car about how important it was to keep Kennedy out of the '56 VP slot because if he's VP..."that S.O.B will be sitting in the Oval in '60". For those who don't remember, VP candidates were elected by the delegates in a floor vote, not chosen by the candidate.
One of my daughters expressed surprise since "he wasn't that old". When I reminded her he was 91 she said "so what, he never watched that FOX chit or got caught listening to Rush". He helped me raise 5 democrats and I'll never be able to thank him for that.
It's been a tough couple days but there have been a few events that have brought a big smile to my face. Most notable - going though his box of important papers, citations, certificates, and keepsakes. There with his honorable discharge papers, newspaper clippings about his military service (both British and US), his first teachers certificate...there in this box was single political button...
"Recall Walker".
Damn if he wasn't a dem to the end. How fun to learn that Recall Walker ranked up there with his form letter from Harry Truman thanking him for his service. The last political comment he made to me was last weekend as we speculated on Walker's running...dad's opinion: "Of that asshole will run, because he's convinced he's not an asshole. Such an asshole".
I'm still processing. He and mom have lived with us for 10 great years. I knew he was winding down but still, I wasn't ready yet and I miss him already.
So...apologies for the ramble (along with future rambles that'll probably happen) and thanks for the tolerance. I just don't know a lot of folks who would appreciate the Recall Walker story as much as some of you guys.
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Sounds like he was quite a pistol. Sorry for your loss.
May all of the good memories you have stay in your heart and bring you comfort. Discussing politics with my Dad is something I miss every day (gone since Nov. 2004).
It sounds as if your dad did more than his share to keep our numbers up. 
He sounds like someone who lived his life fully, with zest and wit right to the end. Love the 'recall Walker' story.
My condolences for your loss.
Thank you for sharing your reminiscences. We know they're aging. We know their days are numbered. We know they won't live forever. We know all those things, especially when a family elder is on a long slow decline from disease or adversely advancing age. Or even when they're still pretty fit, but you count another BIG-number birthday and grit your teeth a little, wondering how long you'll still have them around to hug before they're taken from you.
We know ALL those things. But that doesn't make it ANY easier. Not EVER.
My sympathies, CincyDem. It's no fun being where you are at this moment. And it'll take as long as it takes. Nobody can tell you when the grieving period is supposed to end, or when you've finally mourned enough. That's not for ANYONE to say. It's different for everyone. And it just takes as long as it takes. It's just one of those things.
Just know you don't mourn alone.
You have my heartfelt sympathy.
He sounds like a great man and a wonderful father. I don't think we're ever ready for such a devastating loss, and I wish you and yours strength at this very difficult time.
and watch out for things there.
And our collective loss
Please do share your future rambles.
I tend to be too long winded myself, so I don't see even a hint of a ramble in your loving memories.
While I'm deeply sorry for your loss, I envy you the wonderful person you had for a father. You had a great one. Be proud about it and spread the word from the mountaintops! He earned your love, respect and praise.
Take time and deal with this tragic change in your life, but don't ever apologize for eulogizing your beloved father. If people don't understand, that's their problem, not yours!
Losing a parent is always so damn hard.
You'll carry on his good Dem work and ideals. And of course he'll always live in your heart!
And left you with a lot of cherished memories. I just lost someone dear to me too, and going through my boxes of photos was quite a trip of mixed melancholy and love and joy.
I wish you peace and comfort in this time of grief. Yes, there will be tears, but I'm glad you also have the good memories to bring a smile to your heart.
Now go listen to some music he loved.