Thanks for this, I really enjoyed it. Along with the comments so far. Especially,
he said he'd like it read at his funeral
To which, I responded, "As do I!"
Yet as I read it aloud, I couldn't help but agree with @holoz0r's sense of awkwardness. So I asked Google for something similar. And on the second attempt I found "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep"...
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow;
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Not as poignant. But definitely an easier read.
RE: Afterwards