In Loving Memory **Update on this post 2/10/06**

[jekjones1558]

In case there are any DVCers out there who have not yet used points with parents, don't wait too long. And if there are any potential DVC owners wondering about whether DVC is worth the money, please see my signature photo.
In loving memory of my dad, Donald G. Polander, March 31, 1921 - Feb. 7, 2006. U.S. Navy veteran who served on the USS Texas and survived the battles of Normandy, Okinawa and Iwo Jima. Proud family man, gifted wood carver and champion bass fisherman. But, best of all, just my dad. Rest in peace. I love you.
Jean

Added on Feb. 10: My dad's funeral was today. You have no idea how much all of your kind posts mean to me as I read them tonight. My dad had many talents, all of them self-taught, and he sought no recognition. Even family and friends were amazed at some of his creations, which I displayed at the mortuary. (Here is a link Carvings that shows just a few of about 30 birds he did, each with almost microscopic details in carving and painting. People had no idea he had done so many because he was so humble.) I guess that, when a loved one dies, the worst fear is that their life will have not been valued. You have helped me to believe that my dad really is someone special. Thanks to all for taking the time to comfort a fellow DISer.
Jean

 

[Inkmahm]

I'm sorry for your loss, and I know exactly what you're saying.

I took my mom and dad to Disney in 2001 and 2002. One of my favorite pictures of them is at the Crystal Palace for lunch with Pooh behind them at our table. My dad was diagnosed with cancer in 2003 and died in 2004. I'm so glad I was able to take my parents to Disney when I did.

 

[Beca]

Jean,

I am SOOOO sorry...

That is a wonderful picture...I'm so glad you got to share those experiences with him...you make such a beautiful family.

You are in my prayers tonight.



Beca

 

[jmatias]

Jean,

Thank you for reminding us that family is what it is all about.

We are so sorry for your loss and will be sending our prayers your way.

 

[mrsminniemouse]

Jean
So sorry to hear of your loss. I have tears in my eyes now.

My parents will have been married 40 years this September. We intended to take them to BCV to celebrate. All of our family and friends stayed at BC in 2001 when DH and I married at The Wedding Pavilion so it holds special memories for us and seemed perfect to celebrate my parents marriage. I am now happily pregnant with number 2, due July 14 so we are hoping to delay the trip until next May.

Thanks for reminding me how lucky I am to have happy, healthy, loving parents. I cannot wait to share our DVC with them, after all now I am a parent (DD is 2) I realise how much they have shared with me over the years.

Your Dad sounds like a man to be proud of. Your picture is precious. So glad you got to spend quality time with him at WDW.

Thinking of you
Mandy

 

[DawnaJean]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. What a joy to have experienced Disney with your Dad!! May your memories of all the wonderful times you have enjoyed together help ease your sorrow.
My prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time.
Dawna

 

[bobbiwoz]

Thank you for your very poignant note about your dad, and memories of life with him and family.

Bobbi

 

[lovinthemouse]

I too am sorry for the loss of your dad. May God bless and keep in this time of grief.

 

[WDWLVR]

I'm sorry for the loss of your Dad. Sounds like you have many happy memories which I'm sure will help you get through the worst days.

My Mom loved Disney and I have many happy memories of spending time with her there. We were finally able to afford DVC after we inherited some money when she died. I know she would approve.

 

[DisneyFreaks]

A moving tribute to your Dad. Please except my deepest condolences.

 

[Purrrrfecta]

Sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your familly.

 

[jimmytammy]

Jean

I am sorry for your loss. We will pray for you and your family in the coming days.

I remember your picture from several posts through the years. Its wonderful that you could share your DVC with your Dad. Those memories will live on forever.

 

[WDWJWEB1]

Jean

Sorry for your loss. Great picture, You, Dad and Disney it does not get much better than that! Plus.... a Veteran, loved working with wood and enjoyed fishing ohhhh if the World could live half of that life it would be a better place to live.

Remember the good days, treasure the memories, and enjoy life now. Tomorrow is promised to no one!

 

[jonestavern]

Our heartfelt condolences on your great loss.
this really touches me, particularly. My Dad is also a vet & survivor of Okinawa & Iwo Jima. Dad just suffered a serious fall a few weeks ago. We have not taken him to WDW & don't know if that will ever be. fortunately, we have had the pleasure of being at WDW with DH's Dad~
Our hearts go out to you & you & will be in our prayers.

Jean, Christopher & Patrick

 

[Doctor P]

My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. Thanks for sharing your beautiful message.

 

[conciergekelly]

MY deepest sympathies. He must have been a special man. I agree, nothing brings a family together like dvc!

 

[dianeschlicht]

What a wonderful memorial, Jean! Please accept our condolences.

 

[jarestel]

Very sorry to hear of your loss.

Sincere regards and condolences,
Joe

 

[Bexx]

I'm so sorry for your loss Jean.

 

[KelNottAt]

Your dad sounds like a great man. I'm so sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences.