This past Wednesday evening, my father Ira died at the age of 88 in his own bed, with his family nearby. He asked us not to be too sad, because he had “a wonderful life and an amazing family.” We all had a chance to tell him we loved him, and to thank him. His was certainly a life well lived.
He had absolutely everything to do with this blog, and with my love of nourishing food and good health.
He and my mom were the original hipsters. They each grew up in a tiny Brooklyn apartment, where they dreamt of farming, gardening, animals, and open air. And so, three children later, they found themselves on a small farm in West Central New Jersey where they lived for the next 44 years with their menagerie of sheep, steer, chickens, French guinea hens, peacocks, geese, cats, and generations of Belgian Sheepdogs.
The guiding principle of Ira’s life was food: growing, raising, cooking, sharing, and eating it. Meals at my parents’ home were abundant and legendary, their table a haven of generosity. When guests dropped by unexpectedly, as they did all the time, my parents simply leaned forward, pulled an endleaf from the table, and invited guests to “Pull up a chair!” Later in life, Ira shared that if he had it all to do over again, he would have become a chef. Chef Ira.
In their home, my parents embodied the imperative to let all who are hungry come and eat. In New Jersey, over the years, my father drove hundreds of pounds of grass-fed beef to the local food bank, where it was gratefully accepted and distributed. His generosity was felt far and wide, and he will be missed by so very many.
Thank you, Dad. We will miss you.
This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing. I am sorry for your loss, but clearly “loss” is not the right word. A blessing to read about such an abundant life.
Your dad sounds like a truly special human being. We need more Iras in the world. May his memories keep you.
Dr. Sukol,
What a beautiful tribute to a remarkable man. It is difficult to lose a parent, but what beautiful memories you have to remind you of his legacy. May God hold you close and may you and your family sense His peace and presence.
God’s blessings on you and your family at this time of grief. Dee S.
Sending you and your family condolences. You were truly blessed to have grown up in such a warm and caring family as well as to find a way to pass this on to others with your choice of a profession.I am sure that his story will become more than “legend” in your family and may his memory will be a blessing to you all.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your sweet dad:(! May his memory be a blessing!
My condolences, Dr.Sukol. I’m glad you have so many wonderful memories of a wonderful man.
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. I have some of my best childhood memories of “Ike”, my dad’s nickname for him. From meals in your home in Wantagh as a young child to learning how puppies are born. He was always warm and generous. May he rest in peace and the great memories you all have keep you warm at night.
What a wonderful and living tribute to your father! I am sorry for your loss.
I met Ira some 55 years ago and it was always an adventure. Remembering the two of us in Wantagh going on a tandem bike ride, me yelling from the rear seat I can’t see anything, and Ira saying “never mind, just peddle!” And then they moved to N.J. We spent many weekends with Ira, always cooking and entertaining. Watching his children grow. Me marrying his childhood friend. Roxanne at my wedding at just 10 years old. So many great memories of that wonderful man and his family. It is indeed such a loss. I will miss him always.
How wonderful that your parents fulfilled their dream and that your future sprang from that very dream. Blessings on your father and all of your family. Beth
Dear Dr Sukol,
A beautiful tribute to your beloved father. May the Lord bless your dear father and fill your hearts with everlasting memories.
I read your “memorial sayings” on celebrating your dad’s passing! What a wonderful and warm feeling I have while reading your letter with tears in my eyes…
Thank you very much, Dr. Roxanne Sukol! Wishing you & your family a healthy & happy new year! LaShana Tova!
Love, Belinda & Jim