The Example Funeral Tribute For a Father provides an illustrative guide to assist in crafting a tribute that honors your loved one.
Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, we are gathered here today to remember and celebrate the life of a man who made an indelible impact on all of us; a man who shaped our lives and our hearts in a way that can only be described as exceptional: Len Geatge.
Len was a loving husband to Kay for 32 cherished years. Together, they built a beautiful family, where he was the proud father to Shelly and Carina, and dedicated stepfather to Shane, Rechelle, Marlene and myself. His love for his family was boundless, and he rejoiced in the role of grandfather to Jason, Sophie, Jack, Bowen, Tarsh, Brock, Jamie-Lee, Emily, Jemma, and Jesse. The joy that Len experienced as a great-grandfather to Imigin, Kayla, Zavia, and Elysia was immeasurable, and his adoration for them was unequivocally reciprocated.
He lived his life as a true example of the words in the poem "My Way": So let these words not only be a reminder but an inspiration to us all, as we continue to carry on Len's legacy.
"And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing to think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way, "Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way"
For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught
To say the things he truly feels and not the words of one who kneels
The record shows Len took the blows and did it his way!"
Len was a man of determination, never backing down from a challenge, even if it meant being a pain in the ‘you-know-what’ at times. He embraced every aspect of life head-on, never hesitating to attempt something new. From working as a mechanic on cars, motorbikes and mowers, to working on electrical installations such as dishwashers and light switches. Len's love for life propelled him to explore the realms of painting, landscaping, gardening, and all-around handyman work. And indeed, sometimes his adventurousness allowed him to succeed without the need for an expert to ‘make it safe.‘
Until his very last day, Len's selfless nature shone through. He never wanted to put anyone out or be a burden; he was always there for others in their times of need. He truly believed that the best way to show love was through these acts of selflessness. And today, as we remember him, it's clear to see that his humble and generous spirit lives on in all of us who were blessed enough to have known him.
We must continue to honor Len and his enthusiasm for life by embracing each day with passion, selflessness, and determination, just as he did. As we look to the future, let us hold the moments we shared with Len in our hearts. Let us remember his unwavering love, his laughter, and his unyielding spirit. For in the end, Len did it 'his' way, and it's up to us now to make sure we do it 'our' way.
In the words of the great poet, once more, "Yes, it was his way."
Rest in peace, Len Geatge. Your legacy will live on, and you will be forever remembered and cherished.