Heat Star Kevin Love Announces Death of Father and Absence From Team

Miami Heat forward Kevin Love has announced the passing of his father, Stan. Love took to social media to announce the passing in a very heartfelt message.

"Dad, you fought for a long time," Love posted on Instagram on Sunday. "The hardest stretch being these past 6 months. The most painful to witness being these last few weeks. And even at the end as you continued to deteriorate - I still saw you as a Giant. My Protector. My first Hero."

"The words we continuously heard from you in your last chapter were how blessed you've been to have such a loving family. And in return how much you've loved your wife and kids. Your only wish was to be at home surrounded by your family when you took your dying breath."

"That breath came. And now it's time to rest. You have undoubtedly been my greatest teacher. A role often served by a Father figure. You taught me admirable qualities like respect & kindness. Humor & wit. Ambition & work ethic. Grit & aggressive will. The insight that failure brings. And that time is our most precious commodity."

"Over the years my Dad and I had our differences. I mourn the times I felt angry and isolated - my heart weighs heavy knowing we lost that time and can't get it back. But our division led to me finding myself. I was running from something but that time away provided the wisdoms of forgiveness and reconciliation. And an unwavering sense that he loved me through it all, in every moment. "The best last lesson one generation can teach the next: how to die with peace about how you've lived." This may be my Dad's greatest gift. Teaching me that healing happens in your soul and that healing is there for the taking, even in the face of imminent death. Dad loved his family unconditionally and left his children with one of life's great lessons."

"As the memories stream down my face I feel as if I can see it all so clearly now. It's a fucked up fact of life that towards the end, your own life or someone else's, things that once seemed so complicated and confusing now seem transparent."

"Like all of us, my Dad was imperfect. But despite his flaws, and my own, we are a successful story of father and son. A never ending bond, rooted in love, that will forever remain eternal. Dad, I'm so proud to be your son. My only hope is that you're proud of me. It was all I ever wanted. Thank you for everything. I love you. Your son, Kevin"

Love has been away from the team lately for personal reasons. The veteran hasn't played in the postseason and has already been ruled out for Game 4 of the playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Miami allowed Love to step away from that team to deal with this. Love missed the final 22 games of the regular season as well.

The Heat haven't had much luck in the postseason, falling down 0-3 in the first round against the Cavaliers. Miami hasn't been able to do very much against the top-seeded Cavaliers, and the offseason could be coming soon for them.

Love has taken on more of a leadership role with the Heat this season, playing in only 23 games for Miami. The veteran has averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game this season.

Being in his 17th NBA season, there is a chance that Love will retire after the conclusion of the year. If he does, he will have had a great career, winning one NBA title during his time in the league.

This is certainly a tough period for Love all around. We wish him and his entire family our thoughts during this time.

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