Robert.Crist.Oh
I Lived - Eulogy for A Father
The song we just played is from the BYU Vocal Point Men’s Choir… it is titled “I Lived.” My father did live, and he loved music as well. So much so that each of us boys growing up was encouraged to learn how to play an instrument. Jerry and Michael took up the violin. My brother Billy settled into the clarinet, and my principal instrument was the French horn. That got me curious one day, and I asked my father, “What instrument do you play pops?” Not that I had ever seen him with one. His reply to anyone that would ask him this question was the same. “The only instrument I play is the radio!”
Hello, my name is Robert Crist; many of you know me as Bobby. I, my brother Billy and our families thank you all for being here. I know my father would be displeased if I did not welcome everyone as he taught us better.
[Bogner’s/Simon-Coleman - I would also like to extend a thank you to the (NAME) Funeral Home and their staff for sharing such a beautiful place for us to gather in and taking such great care of my father for his final journey - Thank you.]
We have gathered to remember my father and to celebrate his life he lived. To support one another at this transition. The last few days have been a whirlwind of emotions and memories for me, and I also confess a sigh of relief. There is no right way or time to say goodbye.
One of the last things my mom asked of me on her death bed was to “look after your father…” It was an order, a challenge, and a task I am sure she knew I could handle. I, on the other hand, was not so sure. Even though dad, or “pops” as I called him, was up there in age already. He was not a senior citizen in his own mind. I heard it said once, “that men should die young… as late as possible.” Pops was definitely in touch with his inner child. He was always playing practical jokes or telling them. He could never resist the opportunity to laugh with friends or loved ones.
