You're NOT Having a Funeral? Really???

Ralph and I have talked about funerals, celebrations of life, memorials, ash spreading ceremonies, cremation, etc. for many years.  We don't want any of that.  Maybe in the past these ceremonies were necessary for closure or for notifying distant acquaintances and family.  I'm not sure.  But just like being buried in the ground is becoming less popular, maybe the parties are also.

Anyway, I respected his wishes.  But I'm still getting called on it.  Despite the fact my sister wrote a fabulous obituary, I did not place it in any newspapers.  Only on Facebook, his favorite news outlet.  Also in emails that I sent to those who are not using Facebook.  

"The sun has set on the man who adored sunsets all around the world. And all around the world are people whose lives he touched and who touched his. Ralph was an amazing man, husband, father, Poppa, uncle, colleague, friend. His contagious smile lit up any room and ensured he never knew a stranger, from neighborhood children to restaurant servers to CEOs. He made you feel as if just seeing you made his day!  Ralph shared his "useless knowledge" and "Ralph-isms" with so many who were eager to be part of his world. 

He will be missed deeply by his best friend and wife, JB, his children Janet, Mike and Kate, and the light of his life, grandson Braeden.

There won't be one of us who will see a sunset without feeling Ralph in its warmth and beauty. Aloha, dear friend!"