From the family of Dan Lakly:

On Oct. 29, 2007, very suddenly, I lost my best friend, husband, father of my children, and grandfather of our grandchildren when he suffered a totally unexpected massive coronary after breaking his arm while working the yard. The response from the EMTs was phenomenal. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to us, Dan had a weak heart.

You always hear about how people rally around you during difficult times, but what my family and I witnessed during the last week went over and above the normal.

I can never thank you all enough for the kindness and generosity you have shown to our family during this past week. Whether it was a card, a phone call, or just stopping by to see how we were, it was so very much appreciated.

Friends, family, government officials, groups like the VFW and the American Legion and others offered support with gifts of food, donations, flowers, Catholic Bibles, and many things — the list would be too long to give them all justice.

Representatives of the Georgia Legislature, Peachtree City Fire Department, Peachtree City Police, the city of Peachtree City, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, The Circle of Friends, Father Kingery, Judy Gannon, Clair Stroud and Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home staff, made Dan’s final goodbye to his friends and family exactly what Dan would have wanted and what his family needed.

We have learned wonderful and inspiring things about Dan that we never knew — thanks to all of you who shared your stories. We knew him as a wonderful and loving husband, father and grandfather, and you all showed us how much he meant to this community he so loved. We will be forever grateful.

Dan helped to raise three wonderful sons, and I could not have survived this last week without their love, help, and support. It is a true testimony to how Dan lived his life: honestly and full of love.

Thank you all and please forgive me if I left someone out. I am trying to establish what will be a different “normal” for the life I have ahead of me.

With much love and thanks,

Donna Lee, Dan, David, and Donald Lakly

Peachtree City, Ga.