Another father and son moment for David & Tom Giffels in their touring in final months

David Giffels’ father passes away

Bath resident Tom Giffels, father of former BJ columnist and author David Giffels, passed away Friday, January 5.

Tom was featured prominently in Dave’s latest book, “Furnishing Eternity,” published January 2.

David and Tom worked on dad’s coffin for several years. And had an ad hoc philosophy discussion.

David wrote:

“I've been overwhelmed, in the good way, by all the kind wishes and condolences expressed here. My dad had a magical final year. We walked across the Brooklyn Bridge together on his 85th birthday in March. He enjoyed a wonderful family vacation on Lake Michigan in July. He cooked a turkey for our family's Thanksgiving dinner.

“He passed peacefully on Friday, right around happy hour. I think he wanted to spend the weekend in heaven. Near the end, he said he wasn't sad about dying, only about the fact that other people will be sad. So I choose to mourn him with joy.”

Dave and five centuries of BJ experience left at the same time in 2008.

Tom’s funeral arrangements are pending.