Ruth (Mansfield) Donovan
At the request of others I offer the eulogy I gave at my father's funeral.
__________________ Dad, You provided our family with so many memories: Christmas trees, train gardens, your attempt at ice skating. How proud you were of my high school graduation and the continuance of my education; our vacations to Baltimore, Washington, NYC, and Philadelphia with the kids sleeping in your homemade bed in the back seat of the car. I'll remember you fishing at the Artichoke River, fireworks in cans and sparklers, finding coins on the sidewalk. You taught us family values, the virtue of perseverance and patriotism. I knew I carried with me not only my ambitions but yours as well. I was blessed with great role models. You and Mom taught me marriage is a partnership that brings a lifetime of rewards. Thank your for teaching me how to make my way in the world. Memories of you will be happy ones. Anchors aweigh, Dad, and as Masefield the poet said" "May you have that tall ship and a star to steer her by." It is smooth sailing from here on in. I am sure God will hold you in the palm of his hand until we meet again. You were a great shipmate to us all! Yes, Dad is gone but he will never be forgotten by us.