It's with intense sorrow that I share that my dad has suddenly passed away. His genuine enthusiasm and interest for the world and anyone who crossed his path deeply inspire me and I'm incredibly grateful to be his son. Ik hou zielsveel van je, papa. Van hart tot hart, altijd. 
The “now” photos above were taken 1.5 years ago. It was the last time we saw each other in person. On returning to New York, I got stuck in immigration limbo and wasn't allowed to leave the United States. Painful, but the ocean between us made our already deep bond even stronger.
Following a “question of life” I had, we started the Papa Talks: weekly phone calls on a topic one (or both) of us wanted to discuss. Love, spirituality, work, music, history — you name it. (Of course we talked about his youth, too. I mean, look at this! Second pic w/ my mom <3)
We discussed anything we wanted, or felt the need to, in these Papa Talks. He'd usually send me a single-page “reader” ahead of a call. On his desk, I found notes of the conversation we the night before his heart attack, as well as a readily prepared “reader” for our next one. 💖
I'm very thankful for the support family and friends during this time. As someone that follows the news closely, I know the world keeps on turning. But the death of a loved one is a stark reminder that only one thing really matters in the end: the kindness we give one another.
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