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Times Remembered

Glad that he was here

When Don Slough Sr. expressed satisfaction, he'd often say, "I'm glad I'm here." His son, Don Jr., proudly says he's glad this loving, gentle man was his father.

By DON SLOUGH Jr.
Published July 26, 2005

My dad never won many official, fancy ribbons or plaques during his lifetime. Well, maybe some bowling trophies and honorable mentions for fisherman of the year. His education was limited to the ninth grade because he had to help with finances at home, and he believed those needs were important.

My dad, however, had many degrees. He had a doctorate in human kindness. He also had an innate ability to read people extremely well, and his predictions were uncanny when it came to the actions people would take.

He had a simple belief and attitude in his treatment of people: "Just do what is right."

Somehow he always knew exactly what "right" meant, and passed that lesson down to his children. He had a great saying that summed up how he was enjoying himself: "I'm glad I'm here." Aside from the literal meaning, what he also wanted to convey was that he thoroughly enjoyed the company of others.

His bachelor's degree was in love. Not a bone in his body was capable of hate. He would like certain people more than others and he would enjoy the company of some more than others, but he always saw the good in everyone.

His children were not perfect, but he never once struck any of us. It's important in today's world to demonstrate that respect and patience can play an important part in the life of a child.

My dad worked many jobs during my childhood, including truck driver, custodian, milkman and restaurant owner. He was a busy man who still took time to attend my many sporting activities. I would deliberately look into the crowd to make eye contact with my dad, only to see him standing, cheering and being a proud father. That was the only acknowledgement I ever needed: my dad being there and being proud.

My mom and I were sitting with him in a Dunedin hospital room watching as he tried to breathe while hooked up to oxygen and various intravenous lines. He was not coherent and could not acknowledge our conversation.

I said goodbye to my mother when my dad suddenly asked if I was leaving. It was as if he somehow felt my presence abandoning him. I bent over him to say goodbye when he said, "I Iove you, son." I said, "I love you too, Dad" and kissed his forehead.

That was the last day I saw my dad alive; on July 25, 2002, he died. While I knew his death was imminent, I still felt such immense comfort knowing that over the years we did not leave anything unsaid, or leave room for any remorse about omitting the things that a father and son deem special. That is one of the important lessons I have learned from him. Make sure to let those you love know that you care and are there for them always.

I will always miss my dad, but I will cherish my wonderful visions of his great smile and tenderness.

There doesn't exist a trophy, plaque or monument that is large enough to match his unique gift of love and faith in his friends and family.

- Don Slough is a golf enthusiast who enjoys the many courses in Citrus County. He spends his remaining leisure time spoiling his two granddaughters when he gets a chance.

Ben Corey's exciting story about climbing the Matterhorn; Marsha Quattlebaum's heartwarming story about the life and death of a beloved son; and Larry Bowman's loving family tribute in "A Father, a Son and Two Special Ladies."

[Last modified July 22, 2005, 11:20:06]