Today at 1:30am EST my dad died with me at his bedside. He died peacefully. His breathing had been labored and irregular for the past day. He exhaled his last breath and did not inhale again. He swallowed a couple of times, and then was motionless. I kissed him on the cheek and said goodbye, and then alerted the nurses. I’m home now, and I’m going to try to sleep.

Rest in peace, Perry Harding, you were a truly great, respected, and beloved man. Someday I will try to record your many great qualities and accomplishments.