Hello, my name is Will. Sadly, I knew this day was coming but i didn’t think it would come this fast. Just two months ago my mother had a stroke taking care of my father who was diagnosed with dementia. Within two months after she left the house, my father’s decline plummeted faster than any of us could have ever imagined. Which brings us to today where my family and i have to accept the inevitable cycle of life, no matter how hard it may be.

My dad, Angelo, had four kids, Marcella, Angel, Will and David. Two from a first marriage and then 30 years later had two more from his marriage with my mom. He wanted to feel young so he decided to have kids in his 50s i suppose lol he was a great provider and definitely had some stories to tell. He enjoyed singing opera, like he would literally break out in a belt of song mid meal at the dinner table or family party. Every in-law got initiated by him, grabbing their hand and singing to them in the middle of the room. It wasn’t that embarrassing though because he was actually really good at it. He was a character for sure, always had a joke for everything and eventually everyone knew which joke was coming.

Being from an older generation my brother and i had a very unique upbringing, especially because my dad came from a different country. He was from Lima, Peru and was a citizen for 28 years, worked here for over 50. I like to think my brother and i are old souls because our parents raised us that way. To be kind, have manners, respect your elders and to work hard.

My dad lived a very fulfilling life but that also came with struggles and hardship. Like everyone in life, events take place that cause disruption to the family dynamic. Life becomes a struggle and things become harder, my dad was diagnosed with dementia and chose not to believe it, but who really wants to? In doing so he sped up his own process, which in hindsight may have been best for him. He was tired and wanted to rest, constantly speaking about it and giving his goodbye speeches. I don’t know how many times he told me it was the last birthday he was gonna spend with me, i heard that for about 6 years. But i won’t hear it this year, none of us will. He spent the last two weeks of his life in a deep sleep, nurses said it was the most ideal way to go for someone in his condition. He peacefully passed in his sleep on Wednesday January 14th. He is now watching over us and waiting to sing to us all one more time. I’ll see you later viejito, i love you.

The purpose of this fundraiser is to hopefully send my dad off with a decent service to remember him by. Anything would help, even as little as a simple share or repost. My family would feel so blessed and grateful for it. Our dad was a very charitable man and always showed up for people when he could and would go without to make sure others got what they needed. This would mean the world to the family if his generosity could be reciprocated in this time of need. Thank you for taking the time and god bless.