David Thibault managed to bring a smile to my face at his funeral today. Dressed in his immaculate Boston Red Sox jersey, Thibault was showered with praise from his pastor, his boss and his three children. The funeral service was a beautiful tribute to a wonderful and caring man who passed away last Friday at 49 after a battle with cancer.

As someone who worked under Thibault at Cybercast News Service for more than two years, it was difficult losing a mentor. He taught me valuable lessons in journalism and in life, and for that I’ll always be thankful. But mine wasn’t the only life he touched. Everyone who was at his funeral today seemed to have a favorite memory about David’s positive influence on their life.

The most touching moment came when David’s three children each shared stories about their father. While it wasn’t easy for any of them, they did admirably. I’m sure David’s looking down from heaven with a big smile on his face. He would so proud of Alex, Kate and Daria, as I’m sure their mother Lisa is right now.

Those three kids had a tough act to follow. Brent Bozell, president of the Media Research Center and David’s boss, gave one of the best eulogies I’ve ever heard. Not only did he manage to capture the great times in David’s life, but he also told the touching story of David’s illness and his upbeat spirit about life despite the difficult times.

I don’t know what it is that gives cancer patients such drive and motivation, but it’s that kind of attitude that inspires me to live my life to the fullest. May David Thibault rest in peace.