In Loving Memory

It was my first job as a secretary/assistant to anyone before. It didn't matter; you patiently helped me when I needed it. You thanked me for every letter I typed, for every task I completed for you. You praised me after a hard week, you even talked of putting me in a position of more responsibility beyond the secretary realm: You believed in me in a business world I had never ventured into before.

You took the time to get to know me, you joked and smiled when a situation could've been stressful. You took me out for a weekly drink each Friday after work. You confided in me. You were more than a boss; you were a friend.

Your four young children loved you. I had never met them, but felt like I had from all the stories you told. You were a loving father and it was evident with the smile on your face as you described their individual talents and personalities. Your heart was big; you loved to give.
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I don't know if I can go into the office tomorrow sort through files, answer the phone of yet unknowing clients, and try to organize what seems insurmountable. My heart already aches because of your absence. It will still seem surreal and I will forget, thinking you will walk in the door any second. It will truly be one of the hardest things I have ever done, but I will do the work and sit in your office with honor, missing you, thinking of you, only God giving me courage and strength to get through it.

In my eyes and the eyes of your friends, your family, your business colleagues and clients, this is a tragedy. But our time on earth is short; our earthly bodies are temporary. I know God will do good work and show his love even in this hard situation, which he has already begun to do. He will protect and guide your children. You were their earthly father, but he is their heavenly father and he loves them.

Thank you for our five weeks together. It was too short, but I will never forget you. Today at the concert, I played for you.
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In loving memory of my boss, Jeff, who tragically died yesterday after losing control of his car. All four children were in the car. One was hurt, but will survive with the others.