This past December, I said goodbye to my Dad, who passed away at 79 from Parkinson’s disease. Losing him has left an irreplaceable void in my life, yet during this challenging time, I found solace in honoring his memory with a unique, handcrafted tribute—a keepsake box that encapsulates the love, humor, and cherished moments we shared.
I asked my husband, our talented box maker, to create a special piece that would hold not only mementos but also all the emotions tied to my Dad. Crafted from oak wood with a graceful graywash stain on the box’s surround and corner splines, the design was complemented by a hard maple lid. Together, the graywash and hard maple give the box a gentle beachy vibe reminiscent of Fort Myers Beach, Florida—a place where my Dad found his deepest peace and serenity. Its aesthetic even mirrors the guest room he stayed in when he visited us here in Georgia.
On the top of the lid, we engraved a greeting my Dad had written in a birthday card years ago. I’ve always treasured his words in cards, and having his handwriting forever etched on the box brings me a sense of closeness to him. On the inside of the lid, we captured his favorite memory—a cherished photo of a dinner he lovingly prepared for us, a meal he humorously dubbed “Old Steve.” Though the dinner was far from gourmet, it became a moment of pure, unbridled joy. My mom snapped a picture of all four of us kids, gathered around a pie plate with mixed feelings of laughter and playful disdain. That snapshot, vibrant with our shared humor and bond, perfectly reflects Dad’s enduring love for life and the lighthearted spirit he carried.
Adding an extra layer of sentiment, my husband crafted a mini tray inside the box to hold the small urn containing my portion of his remains—a sacred piece of our enduring connection. Alongside this, the box holds a curated collection of letters, birthday, anniversary, and Christmas cards he sent over the years, along with favorite photos and other keepsake items that remind me of his warmth and guidance.
This keepsake box is more than just a storage space; it’s a tangible journey through memories. Every engraved detail, every carefully selected item tucked inside, tells a part of Dad’s story and the legacy of love he left behind. In crafting and cherishing this box, I am reminded that while he may no longer be with us, his spirit continues to fill our hearts and home.
Thank you for sharing in this personal journey. I hope it inspires you to find your own creative ways to hold onto the memories of those who have shaped your life.
– Christy