My dad’s very close friend, Bert Rettner, passed away today
some 15 minutes after my mother visited with him. Bert often visited my dad in the hospital and was a
source of support for my dad during his battle with MCC.
Bert and my dad played great bridge together. They made an excellent team, and I find
comfort in imagining that my dad is right now welcoming Bert and sitting down
with him for some hands of bridge. My
dad was a Life Master in bridge. With
Bert’s arrival, I imagine they are now both working toward becoming After-Life
Masters in bridge.
Five months out and I still miss my dad every day. Bert’s passing reminds me that we all end up
in the same place – it is not a matter of whether we go there, but when. Dad loved Johnny Cash, and this passage is particularly poignant:
Daddy sang bass,
Mama sang tenor.
Me and little brother would join right in there.
Cause singing seems to help a troubled soul.
One of these days and it won't be long,I'll rejoin them in a song.
I'm gonna join the family circle at the Throne.
Oh, no the circle won't be broken.
By and by, Lord, by and by.
