If you’ve ever read an obituary, you know that laughter may be the last thing you can expect. We speak of those we’ve lost with hushed, reverent tones – even if they left behind a mountain of debt, enemies, and a trail of empty Jack Daniel’s bottles.
One family took the opposite tact when it came to their father, New Orleans firefighter William Ziegler, who passed away at the age of 69.
We grabbed this from The Times-Picayune, where it was published on August 12th. TheTimes reports that it has gone viral.
Here’s the obituary:
"He assures us he is gone.
William Ziegler escaped this mortal realm on Friday, July 29, 2016 at the age of 69. We think he did it on purpose to avoid having to make a decision in the pending presidential election.
He leaves behind four children, five grandchildren, and the potted meat industry, for which he was an unofficial spokesman until dietary restrictions forced him to eat real food.
William volunteered for service in the United States Navy at the ripe old age of 17 and immediately realized he didn’t much enjoy being bossed around. He only stuck it out for one war.
Before his discharge, however, the government exchanged numerous ribbons and medals for various honorable acts.
Upon his return to the City of New Orleans in 1971, thinking it best to keep an eye on him, government officials hired William as a fireman.
After twenty-five years, he suddenly realized that running away from burning buildings made more sense than running toward them. He promptly retired.
Looking back, William stated that there was no better group of morons and mental patients than those he had the privilege of serving with (except Bob, he never liked you, Bob).
Following his wishes, there will not be a service, but wellwishers are encouraged to write a note of farewell on a Schaefer Light beer can and drink it in his honor.
He was never one for sentiment or religiosity, but he wanted you to know that if he owes you a beer, and if you can find him in Heaven, he will gladly allow you to buy him another.
He can likely be found forwarding tasteless internet jokes (check your spam folder, but don’t open these at work). Expect to find an alcoholic dog named Judge passed out at his feet. Unlike previous times, this is not a ploy to avoid creditors or old girlfriends. He assures us that he is gone. He will be greatly missed.”
This obituary deserves a place in the Hall of Fame – if such a thing exists. And with the obituary, we remind you to make sure your will and estate planning documents are in place or updated. These documents include your Last Will & Testament, Health Care Power of Attorney, Durable Power of Attorney, and Directive to Physicians.
Our attorneys can help create a Will package that meets your needs and provides the care, protection and peace of mind for your family that you desire.
Please give us a call and make an appointment – whether you need to create your first Will package – or if you have existing will and estate planning documents, we can provide assistance in updating those documents to reflect your new desires.
