Thanks, Dad
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Saturday, June 21st, 2008 at 2:01 pm in Oakland Raiders.
My father is the reason I became a sports writer. It may be a worthwhile debate as to whether that’s anything to brag about, but it didn’t stop him from bragging.
He clipped, saved and mailed articles to friends and relatives everywhere, delighted to see the first and last name we share atop stories and columns. He didn’t tell me he did this, but the intended targets invariably told me all about it.
As he lay in a hospital bed Friday morning, struggling to breathe, I promised my dad I’d try to be the same sort of father to my kids that he was to me, and I told him I’d write about how I became a sports writer.
He died a short time later at age 75.
So here goes.
Funny how things come around. I watched my 11-year-old son pick up a sports page this morning, turning to the batting averages.
“Dad, Josh Hamilton of Texas leads the American League with 19 home runs,” he said. “And Chase Utley has 22 in the National League.”
Just like I did to my dad on a daily basis growing up. I’d read and memorize reams of statistics and sports facts. My dad would use me to settle bets between co-workers before I was 10 years old, calling home from work to ask me a question, with my reply being the final word.
He had this kid with an interest in sports bordering on obsession, and he fed it every day. A pack of San Francisco Giants photos were like flash cards when I was 3 years old. He’d show me pictures, mix them up, and I’d give him back the names of the players. Willie Mays. Juan Marichal. He’d get a big laugh out of having me say Jo-ey Amal-FA-tan-o.
We were driving across the San Mateo Bridge to Giants games at Candlestick Park when it was still a draw bridge, once missing the first five innings of Game 1 of a doubleheader because of a passing freighter. I knew every inch of that park by the time I was 7 years old and can still taste the hot dogs with brown Gulden’s mustard.
We had relatives in Orange County who scored us tickets to the 1967 All-Star game in Anaheim, getting great seats with Anaheim city officials. Casey Stengel was two rows in front of us, and people were shooing autograph seekers away. My dad got close enough to say, “C’mon Casey, remember the old Oakland Oaks?”
Stengel burst forward and said, “Hell, yeah!,” shook his hand and signed a ticket stub. I lost the stub, but never the memory.
It was the longest All-Star game in history, 15 innings, and we stayed until the very end. The National League lineup alone included Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente. The National League’s starting pitcher was Marichal, and others included Don Drysdale and Bob Gibson. The N.L. won 2-1 on a Tony Perez home run against a kid pitcher from the Kansas City Athletics pitcher named Catfish Hunter, who pitched the last 5 1/3 innings. Finishing the game for the National League, working a scoreless 15th, was the last pitcher on the N.L. roster, another kid pitcher named Tom Seaver of the New York Mets.
We’ve got some grainy home movies somewhere as evidence.
It wasn’t just baseball. We went to Warriors basketball games, Seals hockey games. We even watched a closed-circuit telecast of the Indy 500 one year, with my dad falling asleep watching Al Unser race around the track in black and white.
There was always reading material. I’d read every sports book and magazine I could get my hands on. He bought me every book I wanted, and brought some home unprompted, thinking it might be something I’d like.
Raiders tickets were tough to get, but he managed to get me to my first pro football game in 1968, with the Raiders beating the Broncos and quarterback Marlin Briscoe. Saw my first 49ers game the following year and was less than impressed.
At half-empty Kezar Stadium, the 49ers were booed heavily and lost to the Atlanta Falcons and Bill “Cannonball” Butler. During the game, we were listening to Bill King on the radio describing a big win by the Raiders over the Buffalo Bills with Daryle Lamonica throwing six touchdown passes.
I told my dad he really ought to get Raiders season tickets, and he eventually had an opportunity to get a pair, splitting them with someone else for half the games then taking them over for the full schedule.
I remember Lamonica being booed as Raiders fans pined for Ken Stabler. I remember being in junior high school and being accompanied by one of my former elementary school teachers, who my dad invited to the game. He brought along a flask of brandy, and he and my dad decided to celebrate every touchdown with a drink.
The Raiders won big. We stayed in the parking lot a long time after that one before going home.
The “Sea of Hands” win over Miami remains the most exciting game I ever attended. When the Raiders got the ball for the last time, my dad got up from our seats in the second deck behind the south end zone. I looked at him like he had lost his mind. Surely, we’re not leaving now.
Nope. Instead, we’d follow the Raiders all the way down the field along the concourse, and be standing in the north end zone when they scored the winning touchdown. Which is exactly what happened, with Clarence Davis clutching Stabler’s stumble-forward duck.
When I was old enough to start working, and was working weekends, my dad eventually gave up the tickets. I became less of a fan and more of an observer as my chosen profession became clear. My dad’s allegiance to the Raiders ended when they left for Los Angeles.
Instead, his interest became whatever I happened to be writing about. The year Dusty Baker and Barry Bonds came to San Francisco, I was covering the Giants in spring training. During Bonds’ first interview, we crowded around, asking him questions. Bonds was curt and surly.
Sports Illustrated ran a double-truck photo in the middle of the magazine of Bonds peering up with a sneer at the group of reporters. I was right there in the middle, looking semi-disgusted. My dad loved it. Got every copy he could get his hands on and sent them to friends and family.
My obsession having become a profession, I talked less and less about sports with my dad. All the pennants and sports items he used to get for me were instead being purchased for my son. My dad was showing up with his oxygen tank to his Little League games this season, sometimes when he probably shouldn’t have.
His damaged lungs gave up on Friday after a short hospital stay, with things really getting serious Wednesday, with me leaving straight for the hospital after filing blogs from the Raiders OTA session.
I’ll take off the next week or so before getting back at it, knowing I’ve got one less avid reader and mindful of the fact that it was the one who got me started.
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
June 21st, 2008 at 2:02 pm
First
June 21st, 2008 at 2:05 pm
My condolensces Jerry. I know your father is proud. The Raidernation appreciates all that you do.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:06 pm
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family Jerry
June 21st, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Sorry to hear about your loss. My condolences go out to you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Sorry for your loss Jerry.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Sorry for your loss Jerry. Your father must be proud to have such a successful writer as a son. My condolences go out to you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:17 pm
my condolensces jerry. its funny how parents shape and influence a childs life. yours did a great job with you. your father sounds like a great man.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Jerry-i’m truly sorry for your lose.you have my deepest sympathy and i loved your eulogy-what a great tribute.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:24 pm
I agree with Lefty - it was a great tribute. I’m sorry for your loss - he sounds like a great father.
~Asher
June 21st, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Sorry Jerry, best of wishes for you, your family, and friends.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Sorry for your loss, it was a nice story.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:29 pm
it’s never easy losing your dad, i lost mine also, my condolences to you and your whole family, Raider nation appreciates everything you do, keep doing what you doing jerry as your dad will always be proud…..
June 21st, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Jerry, he sounds a very good man and a very good parent. At the end of days, that is really all we can ever aspire to be. Your tribute is touching and powerful. He would surely be proud of you.
And now the baton passes to you. Like all fathers, we must take the best from our parents, add our own knowledge and sensitivities, and teach our children the correct balance between their rights and their responsibilities. If you leave your children in as strong a state of body, mind and soul as your father has obviously left you, then you too will be, on your passing, worthy of as gentle a tribute as you have crafted above.
Best wishes.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:40 pm
My deepest condolences Jerry.
Kman
# raiderpete Says:
June 21st, 2008 at 2:02 pm
First
What a boob
June 21st, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Best wishes to you and your family, Jerry. That was a very heartfelt eulogy.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Jerry,
You are very fortunate to have such a great Father.
Please accept my deepest sympathies for your family’s loss.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:52 pm
I doubt raiderpete even read the thread before posting that.
My condolensces.
June 21st, 2008 at 2:54 pm
In defense of Tatum and the Raiders, a little different take on that game from a former player.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=toomay/070405
June 21st, 2008 at 3:00 pm
That was a very touching article. I lost my Father when I was 8 years old. My favorite memories are of me sitting on his lap watching football on Sundays rooting for ‘our’ Raiders. For me, the Raiders will always be the bond that we share. The Silver and Black will always be close to my heart because of that. Every Sunday when I watch them play I always feel like he is right there next to me. So reading that article was very special for me….thanks Jerry, and God Bless.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:03 pm
My condolences to you and your Family Jerry. Enjoy reading your Blog. Go Raiders!
June 21st, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Jerry,
I am an avid fan of your blog, it is the first thing I read every morning before my day starts. Growing up I never knew what a father figure was and my mother just never understood my passion for the Raiders. I am sorry to read that you lost your number one fan. I bet he is somewhere in the heavens bragging about his boy as you read this. I give my mother all the credit for becoming a professional. I’ve always said that I never needed a father figure, because my mother was both my mother and father. However after reading todays blog, I would have loved to have a father like yours.
Your dad would be proud.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:22 pm
I just wrote a letter similar to this one to my dad but had the pleasure of delivering it to him while he is still alive and well. I thanked him for all the things he taught me and told him all the things I appreciated about him. It’s unfortunate how many times I hear people say that they wish they could have had one more conversation with a loved one after they are gone so they could tell them how much they really appreciated them. My dad just turned 70 and he knows that I realize how hard he tried and how much he sacrificed and how selfless a good parent must be. He loved it and I cried like a little girl while writing it. Very good feeling to have that connection.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:25 pm
I read your blogs daily but never do I reply. Today is my first. I am so very sorry for your lost.Will wait for your return. Prayers to you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:26 pm
My condolences Jerry. I know that he is in a better place still bragging to his old friends and new friends alike. Just know that you are the heartbeat of your home as you are for the RaiderNation.
You are the source for inspiration for your children as he was to you. You are the inspiration that keeps the proud nation both informed with your blogs and your thought provoking insight.
We all thank you for what you do for all of us, and we all can just imagine the impact he made on your life, just as you make the impact on all of our lives.
Thank you for what you do, and just know that as a nation that follows you, all of our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Great tribute. Such an eloquent piece that clearly showed the wonderful relationship between father and son.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Very touching remembrance, Jerry. My condolences to you and your family. Your dad was right to be proud. I have no doubt that your son is too.
Best wishes.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:46 pm
great read Jerry - wonderful to look back on the support he gave you along the way. take care.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:49 pm
It’s a shame you lost your father. My dad is 89 this year, Im grateful for every day.
June 21st, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Jerry,
I am a big fan of this blog, as it is a good source of information for the NATION. I am sorry to hear that you lost your Dad. Peace to you and the rest of your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:01 pm
I’m so sorry for your loss Jerry. It was a beautiful story. I wish u strength for u and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Jerry,
Long time reader, first time poster. Just wanted to offer my condolences, and to say an overdue and heartfelt thank-you for all you do for us fans. You are GREATLY appreciated.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Jerry: sorry to hear about your dad. thanks for reviewing some memories we share. the NATION will try to mind our manners on this blog and keep things going until you get back!
June 21st, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Long time reader, first time poster.
My condolensces Jerry. I wish you and your family the best.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:21 pm
Condolensces to you and your family Jerry.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:21 pm
Jerry, On behalf of all of us here in the Raider Nation, please accept our condolences and heartfelt wishes to you and your family on your loss.
As to the rest of you, in the immortal words of former Alabama Head Coach, Paul “Bear” Bryant, “Call your mom. I wish I could call mine.”
June 21st, 2008 at 4:34 pm
God Bless
June 21st, 2008 at 4:35 pm
My condolensces Jerry and I will include your family in my prayers. I’m not a avid poster on your blog, but I read it all the time.
Take care.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Jerry, I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad but he seemed to bring up a great person from what I can read. Thanks to your Dad for giving us a great objective sports writer. Your story reminds me that we shouldn’t take for granted how long we have with our friends and family.
Take care,
Sil
June 21st, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Eyepatch: good article on the tatum/stingley disaster
June 21st, 2008 at 4:41 pm
My heart goes out to you Jerry. All the best to you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Your Father is in my prayers, may he R.I.P.
June 21st, 2008 at 4:48 pm
Jerry,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. The tribute written above is heartwarming and poignant.
May God Bless you in this time of sorrow
June 21st, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Eyepatch: there was alot of bad publicity for tatum at the time, viz. he didn’t visit, didn’t care, etc. but after that play, he was never really “the assassin” again.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Really sorry to hear the news Jerry. What a great send off for your father. I never met the man and I am sad for you and your family. God Bless.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Beautiful story Jerry. All the best.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Jerry,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Jerry,The eulogy you just gave your Dad will touch the hearts of many people and know that he is smiling down from above as a very PROUD Father. Thanks for all your work and dedication to the only true Nation, Raider Nation! take care and may God bless.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:14 pm
My condolences Jerry.
Great tribute to your dad I am sure he is proud!
Keith S. :{)>
June 21st, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Jerry,
My condolences and sympathies to you and your family. I had a father too who died and it was the times with him that made me a sports fan and raider fan. When I root for the raiders I remember my father.
All the best.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Deepest sympathies to you and your family.What we post and say is so minute in the scope of life.You devote your life 2 this blog,so your loss will also be felt by us GOD BLESS YOU and your FAMILY
June 21st, 2008 at 5:32 pm
Sorry to hear of your loss Jerry, my dad died in 1997, and I hated that mother F`r,..wished he had died in 1977,…and hes currently in Hell right now….but as I said, sorry to hear of your loss,…maybe you should reconnect with the Raider Nation Jerry,…get back in with that family,…dont just write and blog about them, reunite with the Raider family. God bless. Go Raiders.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Jerry,
I am honored to know the stories of you and your dad going to Raider games. My first NFL game was a Raider-Charger game and Fouts had quite a game hitting Jefferson for a couple TD’s late in the game for a Charger victory. But that was only a few losses I remember for the Raiders. I remember the Raiders winning almost every important game; regular season and playoffs, especially against the Chargers!! Anyone remember Coryell on the sidelines? He probably knew the Raiders were gonna beat his team when it mattered. I think Oakland owned the Chargers back then. Unfortunately, today we have to deal with the worst record posted in 5 yrs.
Those were different times back in the early 80’s. Ever since Marcus Allen made that famous run in the
LA Coliseum, the Raiders have been owned by other teams, the officials, bad karma whatever you want to call it. It has been hard to be a fan, that’s for sure.
Jerry, this blog is a great one. Clearly the best I have ever read and/or know about. Your dad is proud of his son, and that’s really all that counts.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Damn fine tribute Jerry. Damn Fine.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Jerry
I´m truly sorry for your loss.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Sounds like you had a great dad Jerry,….mine was a bastard,..an abusive alcoholic a-hole,…if he were still alive I would kill him. Go Raiders.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:47 pm
I still think the Raiders blew it by not going after Chad Johnson. Go Raiders.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:49 pm
And another thing, I think the Raiders should go after Jason Taylor. Why not?…he must see that the Raiders are now not a laughing stock,…we are a legit contender no matter what espn says,…he would be a great fit….if he goes to San Diego he will help them alot.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Condolences to you and your family Jerry
Thanks for all the news your provide us with.
Being in Australia you are my first source of Raider info and I come in here each day to read your pieces and that of the Raider fans.
I follow a lot of sports but I believe the Raiders are the most unique in the world hence that is why I try to fly over once every two years to catch a couple of Raider games, no mattter how well they are doing.
Happy fathers days to all the Raider Dads in the US and Raider on!!!
Aussie Raider.
June 21st, 2008 at 5:55 pm
Heartfelt sympathies to you and your family Jerry.
Your tribute say’s it all.
June 21st, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Jerry, you have made your dad proud. You did become a sports writer and in my humble opinion a good one. My condolences for the loss of your father. Keep up the great work. I really enjoy your articles.
June 21st, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Jerry…
I am very sorry for your loss. Your father must be proud to have such a successful writer as a son. My condolences go out to you and your family.
Know that our Father will always be Reading your work in spirt!
God Bless…
PnP
June 21st, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Jerry Mac…
I’m so sorry for your loss, I recently was close to lose my dad, so I can obviously relate, though there are probably more than 25 years between us, the sons…
I’m glad Mac Senior was proud of your work and found joy in your success…
Best wishes here from the old country, Denmark, to you and your family!
your ‘fan’ base now must realize why you’ve been less active lately…
/LMN
June 21st, 2008 at 6:12 pm
on another note…
profootballtalk.com/2008/06/21/surveillance-tape-contradicts-javons-claims/
June 21st, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Thank you for sharing Jerry.
Although I’m very sorry for your loss (feels like I know you by now), I enjoyed every word. I hope my 10mn old son has as much respect and fondness for me when I pass, as you have shown for your pops.
Mucho respect amigo.
June 21st, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Hey Jerry, I don’t write here because there are too many with their own demented personal agendas but I check this link everyday I can to read what you have to say. You make us wish we could have met your Dad. Thanks for this story and all the others. Thanks for celebrating his life with us. Peace
June 21st, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Very sorry for your loss Jerry. The Nation sends their condolences.
June 21st, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Hey Jerry, never posted on here, but read it religiously……So sorry to hear about your father…..You and your family are in my best thoughts and wishes….Godbless….MB
June 21st, 2008 at 6:57 pm
A salute to your Dad and all the Dads like him. We were so very blessed.
June 21st, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Jerry
My condolences on your loss. I truly believe that those that pass can still see our triumphs and defeats, so hold your head up high, never forget they are watching, and never forget them period.
Bless you and yours.
JR
June 21st, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Jerry,
Thanks for sharing your memories. I am sorry for your loss.
Chris
June 21st, 2008 at 7:22 pm
God bless you & yours, Jerry. I’ll keep you all in my prayers.
June 21st, 2008 at 7:27 pm
My condolences as well. Carry on brother. My Dad gave up on the Raiders when they moved to LA too. I guess I was already infected, and continue to carry the torch.
Thanks for what you do, Jerry
To the Nation…Have some respect for Javon Walker.
I don’t like some of the crap I have been hearing from you.
Again, give the man the benefit of the doubt, and HOPE LIKE A MOTHER that he gets back to form.
and to the prognosticators…..
dispite the easy sched….
Look for JM to take some lumps and our offensive line to continue it’s struggles.
7-9 is my call
see ya
June 21st, 2008 at 7:35 pm
YOU ARE RICH MAN JERRY, WITH A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES OF A GREAT FATHER-SON RELATIONSHIP. TAKE ALL THE TIME YOU NEED SIR, AND COME BACK STRONG
June 21st, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Jerry my condolences on your loss. My father was a middling high school head football coach for small South Carolina teams but he imparted a love of sports and countless life lessons on those sweltering fields. We appreciate everything you do for us (even if we get surly between posts). I hope your bosses note the work you put in and the number of loyal readers and posters you have as I am sure your father did. You and your family will be in my prayers
Sincerely,
SCRaider
June 21st, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Jerry,
my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
June 21st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
Our thoughts are with you and yours, Jerry.
June 21st, 2008 at 7:53 pm
jerry, i lost my dad in 95 and my mom in 06. but somthing to remember is that in your dads eyes, i’am sure he thought that you were twice the man that he was. that is how all great dads think. on my dads death bed, i told him i hope that i am half the man that he is. he told me that i was twice the man that he was. your dad will be sorely missed from this world, and we should all be gratfull that he touched all are lives in one way or another. because without him we would never have this blog, and we would never have known the contribution he made in this world. so wep nation, because we have lost one of our own.
June 21st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I`m sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I bleed silver and black and am an avid reader of your column. I know your dad was very proud of you.Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Sorry for your loss Jerry.
You are a great writer. The Oakland Trib would be wise to give you a shot as a columnist, on the front page, non-sports.
June 21st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Jerry,
My condolences an best thoughts and wishes go out to you and your family. While there is no greater grief than the loss of someone as close to you as your father, you can take a little solace in the fact that you were an incredible source of pride and joy for him. Your article to his memory is a wonderful tribute to your love and admiration for your father.
Take care Jerry.
http://mvn.com/nfl-raiders
June 21st, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Jerry
You have my sympathy and prayers.
You are lucky to have had a father like yours.
I am sure he is proud of you.
HF
June 21st, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Jerry,
Fine tribute, Your father sounded like a great man and loving father. God bless.
June 21st, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Jerry,
Our condolences for your loss. After reading your articles for the past few years I can honestly say, regardless of team affinities, you’re a good, honest man. You’ve done your old man proud. I’m sure he’ll look down from above to catch what you’re doing from time to time as well as take in an occasional spring game.
Best to you.
June 21st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
ok nation, on another note, and i,am breaking my own rules here(for the past 3 seasons i only post between training camp and the end of regular season)i believe all of are hope relies on the wr that we signed fron the panthers.(cant think of his name at this time) i believe that by seasons end he will be #1 on the team in yards, and td’s, wr wise only. i also believe for us to sustain sucess that bush will be everything that we think he will be. dmac will get the glory, bush will make the plays that really matter. raiders will go anywhere from 6&10 to 11&5, lets hope our defence can at least contain the run.
raiders for life, been in since 1971
June 21st, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Jerry,
My prayers are with you and your family. I hope I can
be as good a father as yours was, and
I hope my kids remember me as fondly as you do your
father.
You are an objective and honest sports writer.
Not many of those around these days.
You’ve done your Dad proud.
CupertinoRaider
June 21st, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Jerry,
No words can erase the loss of a loved one, but having experienced it, I can tell you that your memories are a blessing & will ease the void. In time you will cherish the fact that you’ve been blessed with those memories.
Peace be with you & your family
June 21st, 2008 at 8:40 pm
Jerry,
Prayers and wishes from all parts of the globe.. The Nation is thinking of you and your family during this sad time.
Regards
The Nation!
June 21st, 2008 at 8:46 pm
Sorry Jerry. My dad (die hard Giant fan) died 12-31-2005. We were going to watch the raider/giant game (on tv.. he had Parkinsons). I spent the day in a snow storm in an airport (hartford) picking up my sister (from illinois). Airport had a power outage except for one gate. TVs were off! Only Raider game I missed in many years.
Enjoy the memories Jerry.
CT RAIDER
June 21st, 2008 at 9:05 pm
wtf?
June 21st, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Geez Jerry just because I said I hated my father you deleted my post? Thats weak.
June 21st, 2008 at 9:20 pm
So sorry for your loss Mr. McDonald.
As parents the one thing that we hope for the most is that our children grow to love, respect and eventually remember us. I’d say pops did a mighty fine job!
Remember the days forever.
June 21st, 2008 at 9:24 pm
I give you my sincerest condolences Jerry. May God bless your father and be with you and your family. I lost my father when I was 6 months old; obviously I never got to know him. Now my son and I are making the memories I didn’t get to make with my dad.
While none (that I know) of us really know you Jerry, we feel like we do because we spend so much time (way more than I’d like to admit) checking to see if you’ve got a new update yet, or just to hear what you have to say on the subject.
Whether you like it or not, you’ve been adopted into the family (Raiders of course) so I’m certain that there are a lot of prayers headed your way.
John
June 21st, 2008 at 9:35 pm
Sorry about your dad jerry…
You can be sure he is very proud of you…
Tooz…your post is #51, unless they delete some
June 21st, 2008 at 9:37 pm
RFFL,…no it was a different one,…would have been 88.
June 21st, 2008 at 9:48 pm
You have my condolences, Jerry. My father moved on last year. He raised me in Santa Rosa, so we’d go to the Raiders Family Day (what has become the gross and boring Raider Nation Celebration) at the El Ranch Tropicana hotel where the team held training camp before the move to LA. Because of my dad, I got up close to Otis Sistrunk, George Blanda, Ted Hendricks, George Atkinson, coach Madden, the Snake, etc. Never could get to an NFL game, but he hooked me up with the Giants, As, Warriors, and Cal Bears. Dads are really great. Being a conduit of love of sports is only a surface thing. What they’re really doing is passing along self-respect, discipline, and honor. I’m sorry for your loss. Sharing it brought back wonderful memories for me.
June 21st, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Tooz,
There’s a time and a place for your comments and this isn’t either one of those.
June 21st, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Thanks, Jerry. We all love your blog. May your Father’s memory be eternal!
June 21st, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Ok Howie,..but I truly hated my a-hole day,..an abusive alcoholic abuser,..glad hes dead.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Jerry,
I am deeply sympathetic for your loss. I am happy for you to have had such a great man for a father. I truly am glad to hear that there are still men like him in this world. I sure don’t see it often in my life. I thank you for sharing such a personal story to us all, and I am grateful for you doing so. I am touched and will send my prayers your direction as we all will, but mostly I hope that people here realize how tough it must have surely been for you to share such deeply personal feelings, and how cathartic it hopefully was.
God Bless…. and Thank You.
K.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Jerry, my Mom and Dad are still alive, and still married, so I’ve got it soft. Best of luck to your Dad in the next world. Your Dad sounds like mine, always bringing stuff like that home. I still get sports-related reading material from him for Christmas and otherwise. When I was a kid, I thought it was normal to have sports encyclopedias and games like APBA and Strat around - those 1967 Raider cards have left me permanently bent. For him, it’s the Lions (since the 1940s) and he has finally gotten used to me being a Raider fan, since our continual losing has made him recognize that I can hang with a team that doesn’t win all the time after all. I used to get the business from him though.
Maybe I should have been a sportswriter. Thanks for the great work, and enjoy your break.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:04 pm
There is a song I think you would find insightful
Randal knife by Guy Clark it worth the hunt.
The Raiders followed me to LA where it wasn’t hard to get a ticket.
from tuck rule land
Tj
June 21st, 2008 at 10:14 pm
Jerry,
My condolences to you and your family. I lost my father back in 06, he used to save all my paintings. When you mentioned how your father used to save your articles and send them, it brought tears to my eyes. It reminded me of my dad, and how proud he was with my accomplishment no matter how small they were. I’m sorry for your loss, and best wishes for you and your family.
God bless.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Jerry,
My prayers to you and your family. I enjoy reading your blogs about the Raiders. Your father sounded like a really cool guy. Sorry for your loss Jerry. Have a blessed day.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Jerry, my condolences, love and prayers from new york.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Sorry for your loss. Lost my mom 2 years ago and it still burns. Hang a fav photo and know he is still watching you and cheering you on and that he remains your biggest fan.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Much love Jerry. Thoughts+Prayers+Best Wishes.
Take your time homie. We’ll be here when you get back.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Wonderful article, I’m sure he’d be proud how you handled that. So sorry for your loss, take your time, we’ll be waiting for ya.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:37 pm
I too have all those sports memories but I never knew my Dad. keep those memories and always remember how lucky you were.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:40 pm
Jerry,
I have been a long time reader of your blog and enjoy every word and insight. My heart is heavy for you and your family. Thank you for sharing the special relationship you share with your father. The warmth and depth reminded me of my own childhood and the loss of my father as well. PLEASE take some time for yourself, be kind to your wounded spirit and give it space to grieve, to cry and even to smile. I will be praying for you and your family.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:43 pm
I enjoyed reading this article. Your love for your father is clear. May he rest in peace.
June 21st, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Jerry,
Thank you for reminding me why I should call my dad this week end…
Your article reminded me why fathers appreciate their sons…
and why sons need their fathers….
Your dad clearly knew this…
Thank you for your support of the Nation… (and Thanks to your dad…)
May the thoughts and hopes of the nation travel with you…
The Preacher…
June 21st, 2008 at 11:12 pm
Jerry,
I’m very sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family. Thanks for sharing these memories.
June 21st, 2008 at 11:17 pm
My father gave me my first hip flask…
Thanks and condolences.
tk
June 21st, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Our hearts are with you, Jerry. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful tribute to your Dad.
June 21st, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Sorry to hear about your father, Jerry.
RaiderPete, glad to know you’re “first” on this blog. I’ll bet you’re also the guy who races ahead of the cars in front of you when they’re pulled over to make way for an ambulance.
June 21st, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Jerry, Thank you for sharing with us on one what must be one of the hardest and saddest days of your life. Your Dad sounds like a he was truly a ‘Jerry’ fan before anything else. Lucky for us that he indulged your passion. Your memories ring close to home. Allot of my fondest childhood memories happened at the Colosseum with my father and grandfather. I too was there at the ‘Sea of Hands’ and can honestly say it was the greatest sporting moment of my life. I can’t think of 2 people i would rather share that with.
June 21st, 2008 at 11:55 pm
# The Tooz Says:
June 21st, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Ok Howie,..but I truly hated my a-hole day,..an abusive alcoholic abuser,..glad hes dead.
…………
A.I., your dad was an abusive alcoholic? No way….
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:17 am
Our thoughts go out to you JMac. I am very sorry for your loss.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:29 am
Sorry for your loss Jerry. We, The Nation, appreciates all that you have done for us by keeping us updated on everything Raiders!!! May your dad rest in peace!!!
Aloha,
Dwayne
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:01 am
Jerry,
To begin I wake up everyday looking for the article that you posted on my favorite team. I say wake up b/c though it hard to feel as close a relationship with the team so far away (currently in Qatar) your analysis of the team makes me feel like I am right in the Bay area.
We all should thank your dad, for if it was not for him sharing his love of sports and the game with you we probably wouldn’t be able to enjoy our love of our favorite sports with you.
I know how it is to lose a parent I lost my father at a young age and my mother a little more than a year ago. When she passed I was reminded of a quote from Cicero which said, “Our span of life is brief, but is long enough for us to live well and honestly” and that I can say that your father did
Tex
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:14 am
Keep yer head up, Tex. We’re just going to have you there a hundred more years, and then you’re coming home.
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:22 am
please delete 121…thts just wrong…..
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:41 am
Jerry, this is a great article that may have been hard to write. Please accept my condolences for the loss of your father. Your dad sounds like a great guy and was obviously a huge success as a father. The Raider nation can be grateful for your relationship with your dad because without it we wouldn’t get all of these great articles.
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:41 am
Jerry, I am an avid reader but rare poster on your blog. My heart goes out to you and your family for your loss. Your father seems to have been a great man and you are a lucky son to have had him. Thanks for all your reporting on my passion, Raiders Football since Frank Ewell field days.
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:45 am
sorry to hear that jerry. I love your articles, keep up the great work
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:32 am
You should ban MR Jerry for throwing around insults every time he posts. Shows you he has no character and just wants to piss people off in his pathetic, child like ways.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:04 am
Jerry– May your Dad rest in peace today, proud that anything written below the “By JERRY MCDONALD” will be the very best in sportswriting. He knew the next best thing to having a son play left field for the Giants was to write stories about Barry Bonds. Sounds like he was a major league Dad!
Demas Lamas / Frisco, TX
P.S. My Dad at 87 still revels over the sports stories I wrote for The Daily Review back in the late 60s and 70s…
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:11 am
Sorry for your loss, Jerry. Blogs have their strengths and weaknesses (compared to old-time, anonymous newspaper journalism), but it’s meaningful to know what they guy we depend on for information is going through. Take your time coming back. The Raiders will wait.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:15 am
I lost my dad in February. I have similiar fond memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:51 am
My prayers go out to you and your family Jerry. He sounds like a great guy and an even better dad.
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:57 am
Jerry, I lost my dad, 4/6/03. For me,…a day that will live in infamy,…as he was my idol. Five years later, and I still fondly ,daily treasure his memory. He was an avid football fan. He had Ram season tickets since ‘46, and later brought my mother,brother and myself to the games as well. When the Raiders moved to L.A., we quickly adopted them.(Unlike the Rams, they didn’t choke in the playoffs)…. My father and I watched or attended every single L.A./Oakland Raider game untill his passing. I lacked the talent or disipline to follow in his footsteps,(he was one of the original “golden age” Hollywood screenwriters), but he had some friends that were journalists.(Bob Oates,L.A.Times, was one).I wanted to pass on to you and your readers that he jokingly told me that it is common for your colleagues to refer to the sport’s section in a newspaper as the “toy department”.Take care….
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:00 am
Jevon Kearse got a DUI last night.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:08 am
Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Thank you for sharing your memories.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:23 am
http://thebiglead.com/?p=6357
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:41 am
Your father is right now, printing this article out and handing to friends up there.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:51 am
Jerry,
Sorry about your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Your loss is our loss.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:54 am
Hi Jerry,
I feel your pain. You have my warmest sympathies. It is always tough losing a loved one.
Keep up the good work ‘cuz you’re still making him proud
Your fan,
David from Clearwater, Fl
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:58 am
I lost mine in January, please accept my deepest sympathies - You obviously made your dad proud and I’m sure he’s enjoying reading this article right now in a much better place.
Best Wishes,
Justin
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:10 am
post 84;Lompoc Raider his name is drew carter and imho,he allready IS our #1 reciever.JLH is our#2,curry in the slot.Partyboy as far as im concerned allready lost out.With the WHOLE NATION looking on partyboy let us down,and training-camp hasnt started.Everybody was so excited about upcomming season and that DONKEY ,instead of working hard like Burgess,Fargas,JMAC,DMAC,JLH,SCOTT,everyone else,flipped us off,Fukk HIM.GO RAIDERS
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:18 am
Jerry,
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. My heart goes out to you and your family for such a great loss, but knowing you’ll find comfort in all your memories of the great relationship you built with him. Thanks for all your hard work reporting on the Raiders, your objectivity (even if it’s not always what people might want to hear), your unique perspective, and your expertise. We as fans truly appreciate you.
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:21 am
Well crafted Jerry. I’ve always enjoyed your coverage of The Raiders, knowing where it’s coming from will make it even more enjoyable. Deepest condolences.
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:50 am
The absolute best story I’ve read in a long time. Thank you Jerry for sharing priceless memories. I did’nt end up with the career my dad talked about,but his work ethic is forever with me. It is still sometimes difficult being without my father. But remembering what they teach you, keeps you strong with love. wiith great sincerity chris
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:57 am
Get back to work soon Jerry…best way to get past your loss.
In the mean time I will try to keep your comment count high.
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:01 am
Jerry,
Over the last few years, “Inside The Oakland Raiders” has been, religiously, the first site I log into when I turn on my computer. Not only have your contributions been thoroughly appreciated, but the forums which spring from every piece also glean opinion, entertainment, incite, and, inherently, appreciation for every word you write. I thank you and, moreover, thank your father for giving me something to look forward to each and every day. Our deepest condolences for you and yours, Jerry. Take care and time.
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:06 am
Jerry,
Read your blog religously cheking in sometimes 10+ times a day for the last 3 or so years. You are clearly the best when it comes to RAIDERS blogs. Never commented before, but in case youre reading these today, wanted to say you do your old man proud. As well as the rest of us here in RAIDER NATION…Hang in there.
Raider Rick
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:13 am
Jerry,
I’m sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing your father’s memories with us and all that you do for us Raider fans!!
Craig Miner
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:20 am
Sorry for your loss Jerry
Your dad sounds a lot like mine.
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:23 am
An East Coast Raider fan says: “God Bless you, and God Bless your Father.” May he rest with the satisfaction of knowing his son is doing something he loves and lo and behold he had something to do with setting his son on that path.” Take care Jerry’s”
Claud
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:23 am
Thank you for editing MR out. On a day of condolences,
there is no place for him.
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:31 am
Sorry for your loss Jerry. My sympathies to you and your family.
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:35 am
Jerry my heart goes out to you. God Bless you and your family. When someone in the nation goes down we all feel it. Dad will always be reading your articles, so keep on doing what you were breaded to do….peace
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:43 am
Jerry -
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Your father will always live on in your heart and your strength.
As a father myself I can only imagine how proud your father is of you. He is still beaming.
One Nation
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:44 am
Beautiful story, Sorry for your loss, your Dad, sounds like a great person.
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:02 am
Jerry, a very fitting tribute to man who loved and respected his son, and a son who loved his dad. Doesn’t get better than that!
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:04 am
My heart and prayers go out to you and your family Jerry. I understand greatly how you feel. I lost my mother 4 weeks ago today. Stay strong, keep your head up, and think of all the good times you and your father had together everyday. That helps the pain subside.
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:09 am
My sincere condolence4s Jerry, I’m glad you have so many vivid and memorable experiences with you father to remember him by.
You’re the best (and most fair) Raider beat writer in the bay, i’m sure your dad was really proud of you…
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:22 am
Jerry,
Know that there are those of us out here who are feeling your pain. When a member of the “Family” is hurting, we are all hurting. Reading your story was very emotional as it brought back some of the same memories I had with my Dad. Right down to the Golden’s mustard at Candlestick (that place will never be called by anything else in my mind). My Dad is still alive and I cherish that fact daily. He is a great man and it sounds like your Dad was too. My condolences to you and your family for your loss. It sounds like it was a big one. I know one thing, your Dad, and everyone here, will be thrilled when you are back writing. Come back when you are ready my friend. Best wishes.
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:24 am
Jerry: My prayers go out to you in your time of need. Your Dad sounds a lot like my Dad, I lost hime a few years ago, but still remember going to a game with him. He was a great guy. I lost my Mom this last year, and I miss not being able to talk sports or watch a game with her. You can still talk to your Dad, I do it’s just a little different. Enjoy your time with your Son, they grow up too fast. God Bless!
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:25 am
Beautiful article, Jerry. My sincere condolences.
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:39 am
My heart goes out to you and your family Jerry. Your memories with your dad sound a lot like mine, and you have reminded me to cherish them and never forget. Thank you for sharing them with us. I have always appreciated your honest and open writing about the Raiders and now about your family. Thanks again for what you do.
June 22nd, 2008 at 10:43 am
Jerry, I read your articles every day but rarely comment. Your dad sounds like the type of guy that everyone should’ve had the honor to meet.
Hey good luck with you and yours Jerry. Thanks for everything bud!
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:00 am
Best wishes to you and your family Jerry……Thanx for being a pro and getting to OTA’s for us on wednsday the NATION feels your pain….
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:12 am
Jerry,
My heartfelt, thoughts and prayers, go out to you and your family.
Godspeed to your father, and deepest sympathies to you and yours.
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:18 am
Just read all the comments VEARY CLASSY NATION!!! Makes me proud to be part of the only NATION
RAIDER NATION
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:37 am
Raider O….
I’m starting to worry, you might be right =)
Lets see, enjoy the game =)
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:41 am
Eyepatch, it’s good to see that even in a time of mourning you can play your usual game of invoking my name into the conversation. You’ve got your mind on me like a teenage girl with a crush. All I can do is just sit back and laugh at you.
Jerry, go ahead and ban me. Eyepatch says it’s me posting all of the bad stuff, without a shred of proof, so it must be. Oh, what am I talking about? Jerry obviously ignores you, eyepatch. I have no worries.
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:45 am
Same goes to you, exraiderticketholderr. Since I know now that you and eyepatch are women, how about an email, ladies? Let’s hook up. I know it’d be a tall order to assume you girls look good, but I can tell you’re both fired up and need it bad, so I imagine I can throw on the beer goggles and get through the night. Shoot me your emails, baby girls.
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:46 am
My condolences Jerry.
I am very for your loss and wish you and your family lots of strength in dealing with your dad’s passing.
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:47 am
Never thought I’d nail a girl named eyepatch, but you only live once.
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:48 am
Jerry, Sorry for you’re loss. Take some time you deserve it. Keep up the good work!…
June 22nd, 2008 at 11:51 am
Long time reader, 1st time to reply.
Condolences and continue in your father’s
footsteps.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:08 pm
LMN,
Don’t worry too much, I assumed wrong with Turkey and Russia, I hope I’m right on this one, I really do.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:18 pm
LMN,
Russia really surprised me. They played a solid, all-around game.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Sorry for your loss Jerry, keep up the good work.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:23 pm
LMN,
I’m starting to worry now, Spain is striking with ease. Italia’s counter attack and passing is weak.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Jerry,
Just as many of the others who have posted here, I check this blog several times a day to get my Raiders fix during the offseason. When football finally begins, the notes and obvservations you provide us are BY FAR the best and most balanced on the web. As someone who has also dreamed of being a sportswriter and knows how difficult the field can be, I commend you for following your dream and making your father so proud. What an awesome tribute; thank you for sharing such incredible memories with us.
K. Johnson
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Cuzin V and Raider O
I was sure Holland would win =) But as I mentioned before
Russia’s Coach, the Dutch, Guus Hiddink is the best Coach in the world…. Both teams played the same kinda ball. I hope they’ll go all the way now…
If italy wins tonight, I guess the final will be Germany-Italy, but I hope it will be spain or russia in stead of Italy
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Jerry it is true Memories are PRICELESS. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take your time we’ll hold down the fort.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:44 pm
The only way this game gets going is if Spain scores… Italy just stands back and awaits spain to attack..
If spain scores the game will open up…
if Italy scores - Game over!
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Ey Kev, I was going to vote for you, until I read the phone transcript from the Phoenix PD between you and the underaged girl. Voted for Padilla instead, pervert. You’re a shame to Sac High.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:45 pm
My Condolences to You & Your Family Jerry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
raider pete, you are a first class a$$hole.
first?
couldn’t let that go for once?
NO CLASS.
June 22nd, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Wow, really moving, very sad. I’ve really enjoyed your postings and just want to say sorry for your loss. Awesome work and sorry for your loss.
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:07 pm
“Spock I have never seen anyone come into an online wake and crap and piss all over themselves like this MR guy.”
“Fascinating Captain.”
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:14 pm
My condolences to You and Your family Jerry. I know he was proud of you. You’ve my deepest sympathy and I loved your eulogy - what a great tribute.
I have disliked several so called Raiders Beat Writers but I’ve always enjoyed reading your stories.Keep up the good work!
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Jerry: My sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to you. Losing your father is a hard thing to endure, especially a good father that had an awesome relationship with you. Be thankful you had such a great man as your father for 75 years. Best to you and your family.
June 22nd, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Thank you Jerry for sharing that tribute with us. Your father was proud of you and I’m sure he cherished every moment he spent with you as much as you did.
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Great post Jerry. I have similar memories with my dad. Yourtribute to your pops resonates with all of us. Take your time. We are fiends for info and we will be back on the blog when you are ready.
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Hi Coach On Wheels and Dick V…
Long time no posts… I guess I know why =)
June 22nd, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Hey Jerry,
I am sorry for your loss. I couldn’t help thinking of my dad after reading your post. He died over two years ago and I put him to rest a day before my birthday. My dad was always my hero and I was lucky enough to be able to tell him that many times before he died. The Sea of Hands Game was the one that hooked me on this team too, as it was the first pro game I saw. Best wishes to you and your family.
June 22nd, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Sorry for your loss Jerry.
June 22nd, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Jerry….May the good lord be with you and comfort you and your familly in your time of loss and sorrow. AMEN. Thats good that u can remember and cherish all of those good times together. My dad is a charger fan….godspeed…
June 22nd, 2008 at 3:29 pm
That was not an eyepatch MR, it was a brown patch on the bottom of your buddy.
June 22nd, 2008 at 3:37 pm
sorry to hear this …regards from uk…..very sad article, deep and emotional….bless to you and your family jerry
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Jerry there are no words to express the way I feel for you right now. Your loss is just too great but as I clumsily try to say I’m sorry, let me add that you are indeed one of the best they have to offer and we’re all better for that.
Take the time to reminisce and weep about the good times you and your Dad shared.
I think this brings us a lot closer to you due to the fact that you shared this with us in the manner that you did. I for one wont soon forget this blog.
Thanks again. Priest
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Sorry to hear of your loss, I only started reading after the season had ended and was looking for more news on the Raiders, you by far have met those needs and much much more, I am sure your dad is proud of every effort you have made to provide us with the information only raiders fans could cherish.
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:13 pm
RIP Mr McDonald.
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Guy’s can’t you go one day without the negative banter, to and fro? It’s just ridiculous that you can’t act like adults for more than 5 minutes.
Adios! be back when the games get close
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Ok, now that all you wonderful people have said kind words for the mans dad,..enough already,….and another thing, my old man was a rotten bastard,…ya thats right,..a full blown alcoholic,..rage-aholic,…did all kinds of drugs with bikers in the early days of the Hells Angels of San Jose,…probably he cooked up crank with them in our garage….ya I hated my dad,..is that so bad?….hey hes dead, hes in Hell but thats ok because thats where he always said he wanted to go,…so Jerry you had a nice pop,..good,…I didnt,…but Im ok with that,..I am happy hes dead though,…I hated him,..hey, he hated me too,…so there. Go Raiders.
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:34 pm
By the way, I have booked two trips,..one to Miami in November, and just booked today a trip to Baltimore,…hitting 2 road games this year,….and of course we are at every home game,…you losers who get the shakes when you walk out the front door keep watching from your couch. Go Raiders.
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:49 pm
The Tooz.
It sounds like you have some issues you need closure of, you might consider a therapist or something like it… or perhaps a priest could help, it sounds like you still carry a lot history on you present shoulders….
June 22nd, 2008 at 4:53 pm
It might be better for you Tooz to eventually forgive your father. You can’t change what happened but you can change how you feel about it.
That would at least allow you the freedom to move forward.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:02 pm
BHP…
I second that… good advise =)
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:09 pm
Well I wish my dear old dad was still alive,..so I could kill him. Go Raiders.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:09 pm
It’s all Al Davis’s fault.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Jerry’s dad never died when Ron Wolf was still here.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:23 pm
Ron Wolf is a bum,..an old man that never did a thing,..only was an old man in the war room who lobbed in a few ideas,..never was man enough to be the man,..the worlds best second fiddle wherever he is. But some in here idolize Wolf because they are also second fiddles, like Ron. Go Raiders.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
My condolences to you and your family. It sounds like he was a great man. The best tribute to him is to be the same type of father to your children as he was to you. Best wishes.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:52 pm
man jerry, sorry to hear about that. he sounds like he was a great man. my condolences to you and your family.
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:59 pm
I’ll raise another glass for Jerry’s father and wish him all the best.
I can tell you guys are itching to start abusing each other again.
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:14 pm
cheers to that SaintK
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:26 pm
I say we all raise a glass for JMAC and his family.
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Great read Jerry, sorry for your loss.
June 22nd, 2008 at 6:37 pm
sorry for your loss Jerry,
my prayers and wishes go out to you.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:03 pm
My deepest condolences go out to you Jerry. I’m glad your Dad influenced you into being a writer. You truly do good work.
Again, sorry for you loss.
An Avid reader
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Rob and I at http://mvn.com/nfl-raoders/ both extend our condolences.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Jerry,
My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your entire family!
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Wow Jerry. Thanks for telling us your story. I feel your loss but it sounds like you had alot of great memories with your dad and its good that you appreciate all of it. Thats all you can ask for. Stay strong and take care.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:41 pm
To go off of what BHP said…
I got into a fight with my mother when I was 18 and I moved out. I did not talk to her for a year and a half. I went through the military and decided that it was time to put the anger to rest and move on with our lives so I contacted her and our relationship was better than ever. I started talking to her again in 2001. She died 2 years ago, 2006. She only lived for 5 more years. In other words, you just never know whats going to happen and its important to take steps forward and not backward.
In this particular case, the longer I took in holding my grudge, I was losing time with my mother. I am lucky enough to have made my decision to make peace, right or wrong because in the end…I got to be by her side when she passed away without the guilt or the regrets.
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Dear JM,
May our prayers and condolences reach you as you and your family heal from this difficult time.
All I can say is thank you for doing what you do, in the distinguishably professional manner you do it. For me, the blog and commentary has become my flavour du choix and wait excited for the next take every day.
May your dad R.I.P. and may his legacy run down for many generations to come.
MEXRAIDER
June 22nd, 2008 at 7:49 pm
My condolances to you and your family, what a great dad
Keep up your great work
You the best Jerry
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Thanks Jerry for reminding us of your (our) humanity amidst all the insubstantial drama that is the Raiders.
Sometimes I think I am a Raiders fan because Al makes it so easy to channel my anxiety into a sporting event, when we all know that the truly important wins and losses of life don’t always happen as scheduled on Sunday afternoons.
God bless.
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Sorry to hear of the loss of your father, Jerry.
As Whitman said in Song of Myself:
You shall no longer take things at second or third hand, nor look through the eyes of the dead, nor feed on the spectres in books, You shall not look through my eyes either, nor take things from me, You shall listen to all sides and filter them from your self.
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Jerry,
Thank you for sharing and reminding us what is truly important. Raiders football is just a game. Family is what counts.
We should work to be a good father and a good son. This is more important than going over the middle on a slant.
Raidermot
June 22nd, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Post 205:
MR Says:
June 22nd, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Jerry’s dad never died when Ron Wolf was still here.
You are a pathetic soul. As a human being, it is inevitable that you will experience pain, suffering and death. I don’t wish for anything more than what you will have to endure. However, I do hope that you receive no compassion or support during your times of need and that you can make light of your suffering like you do anomynously at the expense of others.
When you are forced to mourn a departed loved one, MR, why don’t you post a blog entry under your real name and let us all have a good laugh while talking about “nailing girls?” I wouldn’t normally respond to you, but such personal disrespect towards Jerry, his family and the deceased is uncalled for and it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t at least make it known how I feel.
R.I.P. Mr. McDonald and may the memories live on forever.
Jarrod Curtis
San Jose