How do you put a guy like Jody into words?! Not an easy task, and yet I can see him now: sitting back with his arms crossed, that bright smile on his face, so amused by the stories.
He was always up for a good time. His answer was YES! Live music? yes! Cubs game? yes! One (or many) more cocktails on the deck? Yes! But…in all of his fun, he ALWAYS put his family first. He showed up everyday for you two and Sally and loved all of you so so much. I was always in awe, wondering how he could be the life of the party the night before then wake up the next day and scoot you guys all over town. And little did I know that apparently he was a clean freak and an organizational fanatic?!? While it commonly looks like a bomb went off in our house…your’s was always pristine. Who knew that Jody had a part in that?!
One specific story that I absolutely love. We went to see Elton John with your parents. It was at Soldier Field which is an absolute nightmare when the show ends…tens of thousands of people trying to get out and find a way home. Jody orders an Uber. As we’re standing under Lake Shore Drive, we realize our Uber is right above us. So…the reasonable next step (either Jody’s idea…more likely Chris and Jody) is to climb the hill leading to lake shore drive, jump over the guardrail and get into our Uber as cars fly by. And remember, we’re old…we had no business doing this, but Jody was a solutions guy and he got us home. This strait laced rule-follower loved this silly adventure.
Without a doubt you each have, and will continue to hear the thousands of amazing stories about your dad. That said, over time, details will fade. It sucks. There is one thing that will never leave you though…and that’s the way that Jody made you feel. As you well know, he made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. What an incredible gift to make other people feel that way.
Thank you for sharing your dad with us. He made the world a lighter place and was such a good human. He is so missed. Thankful that you will all carry this goodness forward.
Love you! Gwen
Ahhh, Gwen. Not sure how we got so lucky to be your neighbors. Each time with you all was very special ( and is still very special) to us. Just clicked from the moment we met. Love you and our Elton John ornament will forever be our favorite ❤️