What a great story, Tom, and what a blessing! And what a witness your dad was until the very end.
My dad and I were extremely close. In fact, I stopped by and chatted with him on my way home the night he passed away. Being close to him--in some ways--makes it easier. I know where he is and I know how much we both loved each other.
We will both see our dads again someday...what a day of rejoicing that will be!