I want to use this post to tell you about my son. Scott passed away on August 2nd after a fifteen-month battle with cancer. He was our firstborn, and from the time he was a little boy, he was always invincible. That is, until he wasn’t.
Not a Fan of Bourbon
Scott and I enjoyed similar things, but bourbon was not one of them. He did not enjoy the taste and therefore did not see what all the excitement was about. We both enjoyed our time at our favorite bourbon bar, Charlie’s Still on Main in Milford, Michigan, but he would drink his signature LaBatts Blue and would leave the bourbon sampling to me. We both enjoyed military history, trips to the gun range, and, for a long time, both golf and hockey. He was an above-average athlete who excelled at both golf and hockey.
Michigan State Police
Scott wanted to serve from the time he was in high school. He asked about joining the military, and we encouraged him to graduate from college first and then decide after that. Once he graduated from Grand Valley State University, he pursued law enforcement. He told me that he wanted to be the very best he could be and chose to join the Michigan State Police. The MSP recruit schools choose from the very best candidates and then, once chosen, there is a rigorous 19-week training. Scott had to attend two recruit schools because he was injured deep into the first one and could not complete it do to the severity of the injury. He completed his second recruit school and became a Michigan State Trooper almost 15 years ago. He served in West Branch, Flint, Metro North, and his final post was Brighton.
There Are No Words
I cannot explain the pain of losing my son except that there is a void and numbness that I feel every day. It sounds like a cliche, but it is truly like a bad dream that will not end. Finding the energy to write this short piece is difficult. My son Scott touched a lot of lives during his short time on earth. He and I did not always agree, but in hindsight, he was and is one of my heroes. I could not be prouder as a father than to hear from so many people about how Scott touched their lives in a positive manner. I would like to write hundreds of words about my son. However, this short post is dedicated to him, and we are so proud of the man he became.
Thank You For Reading This
For those of you who knew Scott, this short story will be very meaningful. For those of you who didn’t, please reach out to a loved one and tell them how much you appreciate them. Life can be so very short, and sometimes, you run out of precious time. Right now, I would give anything to have one more day with my son. God bless you, Scott. You will be forever missed.
May Scott rest in paradise
Dan, his pain was so severe at the end that I hope he is finally at rest. Thank you
So very sorry for your lost Don. I have a son also & can’t imagine the pain you’re going through.
Trust in God and keep moving forward. You’ll meet him again in much greater times.
Thomas, Thank you for checking in and thank you for your thoughts.
Don,
Very sorry to learn of your son’s passing. Cancer is a cruel master that does not discriminate. At one of the bourbon tastings, you had briefly mentioned that you were dealing with some medical issues with your family. I thought that when Charlie mentioned that there would be no bourbon review for the past few weeks, I thought that there might be some bad news. Loosing family is tough time and lasts a long while. Hang in there buddy. I am sure Scott had to deal with great pain. now that is over. May he rest is peace.
Keith, Thank you. I appreciate your very kind comments.
Don,
So very sorry to hear this incredibly sad news. You will be in my prayers.
Don … what beautiful words to honor your son! Over time fond memories will be front and center … but for now it is just plain sad, very sad! Please know that you, Denise and your family are on our minds and in our prayers!
Peace & Love,
Ken and Emily
PS ‘just bought some Blue and will be sure to toast Scott with our first pour!
Thank you Ken, I truly appreciate your kind words.
Don,
I haven’t the words to express how sorry I am to hear this tragic news about Scott. My heart and prayers go out to you and your whole family. Scott was a wonderful young man. I had the good fortune to play a round of golf with you and Scott years ago. I still remember how I had to play my very best not to lose to a 13 yr old boy. Scott was not only an excellent golfer, but more importantly, he was a polite and well mannered young man.
Ed,
Thank you. He could really play back in the day. And you obviously know he got his politeness and manners from his mother. Many thanks my friend.