The family, circa 1961, Dad, me, Steve, Mom, Lynnel, Sue, and Lori. Cropped off is the feet. Dad’s shoes were about size seventy-five.
My dad died last night. It had been coming . . . really ever since Mom died in November. This seems like Part 2 of a two-part event.
Of course, I’m grateful for the sympathy of friends, but grief is not the sensation of the moment. It’s more of a reflection, a look at a life well lived, a perspective of my own from here out.
Dad hadn’t been talking much in these last months, toward the end not at all. On our last visit all he did was hold out his hand—to me, and then to Anne. At 97, I was impressed with the strength of his grip.
There’s much I could say of this man I not only loved but deeply respected. From him I learned many things. Not that his teaching was so overt, but there was a solid modeling . . . of what a man is and does.
For one thing, he wasn’t afraid to take things on. He could fix things, or make things. He had an expressed attitude that said, “These things (whatever they were) are man made; I am a man, I too can make them / fix them / do them.
It was far into my adulthood before I realized I could call a repair man or take my car to a shop. Dad always did these things himself. And very often for others.
He got a lot done but was never in a hurry.
He introduced me to fishing. In his great patience and “thinking about it” he could catch even when nobody else was. That wasn’t the same with me, so it didn’t stick.
He taught me to ride a motorcycle, out in the wilds of Wyoming, something he probably lamented as, at 14, I got caught doing it in Southern California traffic.
He taught me the value of friendliness, again by modeling. Same with family leadership. And of working two jobs if necessary to support his family, as well as explore a new interest.
He tried teaching me the facts of life, but shy about these things, waited too long. (The world teaches early.)
It was him that influenced me to read a certain book that in the end, brought me to God. For this I have him to thank for both of my lives, the earthly and the eternal.
On that note I’ll stop. It’s another reason that any grief we have is of a different sort than that of those without hope. I know I’ll see him again.
We’ll talk.
And I know his grip will be strong.
Our Lives Together
Its About Life
3:28 pm
Thank you for sharing the wonderful traits of your father. What you shared reminded me so much of my own father. We were truly gifted with such men. I pray your memories will continue to enrich your life and that his influence will continue to affect all those you richly touch in turn.
3:57 pm
Such beautiful words… plain and heart-felt without a trace of artifice. I think he’s still holding your hand.
6:53 pm
A beautiful tribute….I believe you were blessed to have such a Dad
4:09 pm
We are truly truly sorry for your “part 2” loss of your father. Thank you for sharing him with us in your blog. He was an amazing Man. May God be with you and your family. Love, Rob and Adriana Santini
4:09 pm
Hyatt, you’re one of the best at honoring your father and mother… whether they are in this life or the next. When I lost my Mom I lost my chaplain, when I lost my dad I lost my General. Hyatt, keep creating wonderful things that never existed until you created them, colors on canvas, words on paper, and new things to think and wonder about.
4:12 pm
I thank God for fathers who give us,”solid modeling.” Blessings to you my friend.
4:17 pm
Yes, thanks for sharing Hyatt. I have a feeling that I would have loved knowing him. Our condolences to you, Anne and the family.
4:22 pm
So beautifully said, dear brother. I may do a week of daddy blogs. See here for the first: http://www.welcomeheart.com Looking forward to recalling fun and fond memories w/ you all this week.
4:23 pm
That was beautiful Hyatt. You and Anne are often in my thoughts! Miss you…
You were blessed to have such an awesome example!
Sending love and hugs…
4:25 pm
What a beautiful, loving tribute about your dad. Thank you for sharing this. So sorry for your loss <3
4:29 pm
So sorry to hear the news. So beautiful, true and helpful to hear these words through your pen. Blessings and talk soon…
4:34 pm
God’s abundant and marvelous grace to have such a wonderful man in your life for so many years. My dad left at 55 unexpectedly. I still wish we had more time together, but I take comfort in knowing I will see him and many others very soon! Many more rich blessings to you and yours my friend!
4:39 pm
Dear Hyatt (and all you Moore “kids”),
How could you have said it any better? What a legacy your parents have left you all….and what a legacy he left us all in his children.
Our hearts rejoice that your dad is in Glory, but to be honest, we have a sense of sadness – knowing that we’re minus those two lives of your parents here on earth. Yes…how close we are to joining them, none of us know…but so comforting and actually, a joy to know that we will join them in our Forever Family…whenever that is!
Love & prayers for you all
Ed & Mabel
4:46 pm
Once again, Hyatt, you’ve painted. This time a beautiful and noble portrait of a dad who was unique, hand-picked for you. My father was 97 when he passed, too, as you know, and clearly left his fingerprint on my life. Heaven isn’t that far, and the two souls, yours and your dad’s, are much closer now than we might think. Take your time with the season ahead of you, reflecting deeply with a grateful heart.
4:53 pm
Thank you, Hyatt. Beautiful tribute. I remember meeting him when you brought him to the office one morning.
Regardless of how old you are or whether or not it is expected, something significant changes when your Dad dies. It may be that you are now officially the older generation.
4:54 pm
Hyatt, I went to church this morning at Heritage, and looked for a glimpse of you. Although, not in person, you were there in all of your wonderful paintings. What they do, is take a person on a journey through the beautiful faces and heritages you have painted, and into an inkling of your experiences, and you.
Upon opening my email to find your blog, I see what you and your family have been experiencing these past few days. You are able to give a rich tribute to your Dad, as you were able to do with your Mom. I’m so glad you were so blessed and enriched by your parents. You will find great comfort in that. Prayers for love to abound deeply and surround you and Anne, and your family.
Kathleen
5:04 pm
Kathleen. Thanks. And about church, I was there. Sorry to have missed you.
5:01 pm
Hyatt, what a rich tapestry of living your Dad has woven for you, and others he touched throughout his life. What a blessing to have his legacy, and character to cherish into eternity. Our love and blessings for you Anne, and family.
5:07 pm
Thanks for sharing Hyatt. I can only hope my children will have some of the same sentiments when I pass. I’m inspired to try even harder to live a good life and set a good example. The world needs more men like your father.
5:29 pm
Your honor of whose family God birthed you into and all that you’ve learned through your Mom and Dad is so beautiful. You have loved and honored them well. Big love to you and your family!
5:30 pm
Such beautiful words. I am gong to strive for my kids to think of me the way you do your dad. Thank you
5:46 pm
I’m praying for you and your family as you grieve, but also feeling thankful for all the great memories you have of your dad. Take some time to marinate in them. Thank you for sharing some with all of us.
6:04 pm
So beautiful, and KNOWING you will see both parents is very comforting … I agree with you that grief is different for us all…different circumstances…different ages…etc., but you will miss your mom & dad…and now you and Anne are the matriarchs/patriarchs of a wonderful family. Your family is a testimony of generations and generations and generations!!!!! Ps. 71…so surprised to see you this morning, but glad to!!!!! Much love to you, Anne & family!!!!!!!
6:49 pm
OH Hyatt, God bless you all!!!! This is another milestone. I am at peace for you that it was them at their wonderful old ages! and not any of you first, like my brother, who passed this year, Jan 1, 2014. I am so glad to hear about him and all that he meant to you and to your family and friends.. He sounds like such a wise man, a wonderful loving man. I am so glad you got to hold his hand one more time… you and Anne. God bless you all during this time! Grateful that he is now with his bride for all time and His true Father in heaven. AMEN! Love love Lisa
7:02 pm
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men’s hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.
I know that there is nothing better for them than to be glad and to get and do good as long as they live; And also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God.
I know that whatever God does, it endures forever; nothing can be added to it nor anything taken from it. And God does it so that men will [reverently] fear Him [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is].
– Ecclesiastes 3:11-14 (AMP)
Hyatt–God be with you and your family during this time of reflection and adjusting to life without. Love from all the China Macs.
7:09 pm
Thank you for sharing with us. Beautiful words of the legacy he left behind. Brought me to tears. I am so sorry for you loss. I know he led a full, wonderful life living almost to 100! And I pray that you and your family especially sense God’s presence right now and that He surround you all with great comfort and peace as you grieve your loss and heal.
7:33 pm
Thanks. for your reflections. Brought back good thoughts of my father. Maybe your dad and mine could have tea some day together…
7:51 pm
Hyatt, so thankful that the Lord/Holy Spirit is your comforter at this time. It is such a blessing to know that you will see your loved ones again in Glory. It makes all the difference to know where they are going once they take their last breath. Even though you have a heavy heart because you miss them (I (Julia) still cry myself to sleep over Nathan), but I know that we will get to see him again, and that you will be reunited with your Father one day. That is something only the Lord can give us, and for that we are ever grateful. That gives us the peace that passes all understanding, even in our grief. God is good…
8:05 pm
Dearest Hyatt,
So much to handle in such a short time. I know God’s Grace is sufficient & that you are rejoicing that they are together. Graduating so close together from this life says a lot about the wonderful marriage they had with each other.
I loved the family photo & could pick you out immediately.
Blessings to you & ALL your family as you grieve in joy knowing where they are for eternity.
Dan & I will be in town this Sunday & hope to see you & Anne.
Hugs, Lexie & Dan
8:50 pm
Dear Hyatt,
I normally would have said that I’m sorry for your loss–but after reading about your father, I would rather say, “I’m sorry for the temporary pain of missing your loved ones, but I rejoice with you that you have had so much richness and strength that you have inherited from your parents. They have helped make you the wonderful man you are–Blessings, generation upon generation; and a true blessing you are!
Aida
8:59 pm
Thanks you for telling us. My heart is with your heart.
The strong grip on your hand is something you will always remember. In fact, the entire journey into old age, for both your mom and dad, and their passing on to receive their eternal reward… beautiful in its own way. Unforgettable. I’m so glad you were there in the final days. You have been there your whole life. Beautiful tribute. Great people your mom and your dad. Thank you. My feelings go out to Anne as well, who loved your parents with a unique intensity.
5:30 am
Thank you for this tribute, Hyatt. May God’s peace be yours at this time.
6:21 am
Thanks, Hyatt. My dad died 10 years ago, another resilient and self-reliant man of God. May the knowledge of the resurrection give you peace.
6:26 am
Thanks for sharing these reflections…you painted a great picture of your father in words. A “life well lived” is something to strive for … a time of self reflection one can hope for … thanks for keeping us thinking!
8:23 am
What a lovely and inspiring tribute to your dad. I know you love him dearly. Kelly and I have just moved my parents in with us. They will be 82 this year and I will count this time together as a privilege and a gift. Blessings to you.
8:55 am
Dear Hyatt & Anne,
You are blessed to have had a family like yours!
They are together now, maybe holding hands….
You look a lot like your dad, Hyatt. Thank you
for sharing your love & respect for such a dad
as he was!
Barbara Mitchiner
9:25 am
We know you will miss your dad for a time, but right now I am cheering a life well lived and crossing the finish line with honor. Keep running the race with the same grace as your dad and know that he is proud.
10:00 am
Hyatt, What I love most about your reflection is that it causes me to pause and reflect on the kind of father I’ve been…and to think how I can be better. Thank you for sharing and thank your dad for inspiring me toward excellence.
10:19 am
Beautifully written. He sounds like a terrific man who taught you valuable life lessons…and you appreciate that. Wonderful.
11:59 am
Thank you for sharing the sermon of your Father’s life. Obviously he was a man of integrity and great love. Leading by example is always more penetrating than words.
God bless you and your family,
Linda
1:44 pm
You were blessed to have such a great man as father and an example.
All these good memories are your blessings.
3:43 pm
Hyatt, please know you and the family are close in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I was deeply moved to learn of your Dad’s passing but it is so uplifting to read your words and learn something of this special man and his signficiance in your life, not least of all in his contribution towards ‘shaping’ Hyatt Moore! Sending warm greetings from Scotland and praying that you will continue to know the peace that passes all understanding.
Karen
3:45 pm
LOVE the pic! My sympathies on your loss but also rejoicing he is with the Lord and you will see him again someday!
4:25 pm
Hyatt, Your earthly father introduced you to your Heavenly Father and what a gift eternal for you both. For this world is not our true home and the hope of Heaven will one day unite us all. Know of my prayers for you and your family. May Our Lord draw you close to Him this Lent and strengthen and comfort your faith and give you real Hope and Joy in the coming promised Resurrection this Easter! We will meet again at the Festival of Friends:) Ann Phillips
8:04 pm
John Donne: Death, thou shalt die!
4:52 pm
Beautiful thoughts. Thanks for sharing them. Praying for you and yours, Hyatt.
7:52 pm
Hyatt and Anne,
Heard about your Dad on Sunday and were a little taken back. But I know that we will see him again in Heaven. He has the good side and we just have to struggle on. My family loved your Mom and Dad and the way they lived their lives. We saw them in 2009 and your Dad was using a walker and your Mom was down on the couch. They were still concerned about my family. We have visited them over the years and they have come to our house in CA and in TN to visit. They were loved by all in my house and people everywhere. Our hearts go with you as you tell him good-bye for a while.
Our thoughts and prayers go with you.
We love you.
Love,
Becky and Bill Jones
12:01 pm
Grace and blessings to you and Anne. Thirteen years now since dad is gone, and every year I respect him more. Mom is 92 and in a home. Alzheimer’s. The last time I visited I had the nurse take a picture of us, and then showed it to Mom. Her comment, “I don’t know those people.” But I have the memories. Good ones.
3:00 pm
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. You were blessed to have such a dad.
3:17 pm
So sad to hear about your father’s passing. You obviously have a rich heritage. May God’s presence soothe your pain and bring you joyful memories. God bless you.
9:40 am
Your dad sounds like a work of art in himself, a testament to the Artist, a blessing on his family.
7:54 pm
I am so sorry to hear of Uncle Hyatt’s passing, as my father last February 2013, it is so difficult for us to let them go from this life. They were our strength and wisdom and will be sorely missed from this life, but not forgotten. My heartfelt condolences from my family to yours.
9:33 am
Hyatt,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your father (and your mother last year)
I am thinking of you and Anne and will be sending up a prayer for peace in this difficult time.
Love to you and Anne,
Rhonda
10:05 am
Hyatt this is when we usually say I’m sorry for your loss. After reading it doesn’t sound like you lost but gained so much having this man as your father. Of course he will be missed but what he left behind, you, an amazing man of God, which his fathering fostered. If we as parents have half of this said of us by our children when we transfer into eternity. We will have lived well too.
7:51 pm
Greetings Hyatt and Anne,
Oh the words that are deep inside me, but so hard to get out without emotion. First the Bible says that God is the father of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. HE is the God of the LIVING and not the died. Your parents are now living with the rest of the saints in Heaven. Second it is neat to hear about the great role model your dad was. All your amazing stories about your parents will always be a treasure! The really cool thing is everyone who knows you, also knows that you are an amazing role model also! You’re a chip off the old block and I praise The Lord for it!
Your VICTORIES will be great and like your parents there will be shouts of JOY when you arrive at the shores of Heaven!
Blessing to you!
6:17 pm
I’m sad that you are separated from your dad, even if it’s only temporary. You’ve had a weighty year. May God’s presence be extra evident right now.
12:45 pm
Beautiful picture of a father and son who were well loved. Janice
10:33 pm
Hyatt…this past year sure has been full of heavy changes for you. You’re a kind man, and I hope things get easier soon for you and Anne. Your loving tributes were beautiful! Your parents were lucky to have a son like you, and it sounds like you were lucky to have them, too.
8:13 pm
Hyatt, thank you for sharing your memories and how you were influenced by your dad. I appreciate your description of grief as a “reflection…of a life, a perspective of my own from here out..” Once again, I am learning of grief, as my sister met her sweet Savior on March 27th. Taking time to reflect and gain new perspective for my journey.