Duane Schrock Sr. was astounded to open mail and find a greetings card from his son which was written and posted in 1989, but unfortunately got lost in transit and didn't make it to its rightful owner...until now.
Duane, who was estranged from his son prior to his death, admits that the idea a post officer worker endeavoured to deliver the card after more than two decades makes him emotional, saying: "Somebody picked up the ball and carried it and after all these years they must still have forwarded it. I still kind of tear up when I think about it.”
The heartfelt message contained within the card alluded to the fractured relationship the pair had at the time of writing, reading: "Dear Dad, We haven't been in touch for quite a while, I'm doing fine and am very happy in Richmond."
Urging his father to get in touch, Duane Jr, finished by saying; "I'd like to hear from you. Have a Happy Father's Day. Love Duane."
Duane, who died of AIDS six years after sending the card, was aware his father struggled to accept his sexuality, but reached out to him in the hopes of repairing their strained relationship.
Duane Snr, who moved all over the States in the intervening years, has taken much comfort from the delivery of the card, saying: "It's like a sign from heaven that my son is doing just fine.”
What a heartwarming story.
