A tribute to my father in law

In our hearts you hold a place no one else will ever fill.

My father in law was a warm and chatty person, if you were attending a party or any other occasion, I’m sure you will remember him. It was inevitable to miss him besides his characteristics, a beard and a moustache, he was quite tall and known for his stories. He spoke with everyone about everything, young, old and could always find a topic that was of your interest. I loved talking with him because we had one particular topic in common, Belgian politics, and especially how things are structured in Belgium, to summarize in one word, complicated.

I remembered that I lived in Belgium for more than 5 years and I needed a new identity card which was just after the attacks in Brussels. It was extremely hard to extend my card and the process was long, complicated and non-transparent. I discussed this with my father in law, he got frustrated that his daughter in law didn’t receive her new identity card, and said that he would join me to go to the community. He had straight forward (more Dutch) comments and supported me in the process. So sweet of him. An unforgettable moment! He was not afraid of sharing his opinion, another thing we had in common.

Next, if you couldn’t see Willy, you could definitely hear him, he was always whistling, on the notes of his favorite music jazz. And yes, he enjoyed a good life and loved his Belgian beers especially Duvel was one of his favorites.

Christophe and his fahter Willy, picture taken at our wedding 25th October 2013

Willy was born and raised in Ghent, a city he loved. Christophe and his father enjoyed walking through the city. During these walks he shared stories about his youth in Ghent.

My father in law was already in the hospital at the ‘palliative care’ and we heard on Saturday that it won't take much longer. On the day that spring starts, the 21st of March, you left us and moved to the next level. On one hand we are very sad, on the other hand, you were in pain the last days and you didn’t deserve this. You reached the respectable age of 87 years.

Saying goodbye to your loved one is already difficult, but in these times, it’s even more emotional. You can’t hug anyone, or a simple handshake is not done. That makes this pandemic so heavy and very emotional.

It was a beautiful ceremony and I decided to give a small speech in the name of your son Christophe. Also my niece shared a beautiful story. After the ceremony, the sun came out, like a sign you were with us.

Willy, we miss you! Next time we will walk through the city of Ghent, we will join you and we will toast with a Duvel. Cheers Willy