My dad passed away last Friday, 26 May. After several days of accelerating physical decline, Eric took his last breath at 9.17 a.m. He had reached the ripe old age of 95 years and 4 months.
Having looked after him for over three years, I still don’t quite know what to do with myself. There is an absence in the house. A hollow feeling. But also a real sense of relief that his suffering has come to an end. Dementia is a cruel disease, one which reduced my father to a shell of his former self.
May you rest in peace, Eric Thomas Godier.
The Biscuit Factory 
Rest in peace Eric
You both did an amazing job of looking after Eric for such a long time. I’m sure he would agree that it’s now time for you both to have the best life you can. Love and hugs to you all. Xx
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Thanks Bridget/Mags xx
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Such sad news preying for you all. Please keep us informed of details.
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Thanks for your kind thoughts Ed
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Sorry to hear this Kev, but relieved as well, for your dad, and for you all. Dementia really is an awful disease, it takes away the person before it takes the body. Despite all that, it doesn’t change the immense feeling of loss. Huge hugs to you all.
Fly like the birds Eric, your spirit has finally been set free. ❤️
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If he is anything like his human self in the afterlife, he’ll be flying high Moisie. Thanks ❤️
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Ahhhh, and so begins the 0 mark of a new anniversary. May you and yours fondly recall the love you freely gave (and I imagine he returned) on this date in future years. He’s ceased life as most know it, and like rising ether blowing out to sea, has become a connoisseur of stars. There is love and release, and perhaps a tightened fist or giddy relief. And words, those clumsy pebbles–intrude on reveries—try to fill the hole he leaves, an empty space we want to fill, full knowing another hole may open at will, though it might also return that twinkling star—and the soul refill. Kind regards Kevin, I raise the parting glass to your dad.
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We’ll raise a few glasses and then more Jo. We’re in limbo time here, chronological no-man’s land. Your references to the stars are very welcome perspective and contrast to the old, frail body left behind.
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Hollow time. It really says it all, Kevin. The words are beautiful and empty simultaneously. I was thinking of you yesterday and today. I sh** you not. Then you sent this post out. My thoughts are with you and yours.
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Thanks Stace. We’ve a month until the funeral, which gives plenty of time to straighten ourselves out and set a new course.
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I’m sorry for your loss, Kevin. I know how you feel, I know how hollow times like this are.
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Thanks Mark. It’s sad. It’s also part of life’s incredible cycle.
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Sorry for your loss, Kev. No doubt there is a space now in your household, and indeed in your life, in place of your father.
As you say, part of life’s cycle.
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Thanks Greg. Yes, a big space has appeared. Summer is poking its head through, which makes the space easier to fill.
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Very sorry to hear of your father’s death. Something that’s been an ever present
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Appreciate your thoughts Shaun. Good to hear from you. It’s an odd time, where I almost feel like I shouldn’t be feeling so happily free. Hope you and Fran are in good nick and enjoying the time of year.
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This heartbreaking beautiful, and such a deep love shared through your memory of him. RIP Eric. I’m glad you and your wife now have some time back though, big hugs to you xx
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Thanks Catnip – it’s been a long time coming. xx
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