Wisconsin Man's Dying Wish: Having A Beer With His Kids

WAUWATOSA, WI — At the end of his life, and facing death at the hands of stage four colon cancer, 87-year-old Norbert Schemm wanted just one thing: one last beer with his sons.

His grandson, Adam Schemm of Wauwatosa, was there for the touching moment and took a photo while at the hospital. Norbert was pictured in his hospital bed surrounded by his three sons Bob, Tom and John Schemm. They were sharing a couple bottles of Bud Light.

"I can tell my grandfather's smiling, at least trying to. They all are accepting what's going to happen but they really cherish this last moment that meant a lot to them," Schemm told the Post-Crescent.

Schemm posted the photo on Twitter on Nov. 20, and the world was waiting. Schemm's tweet was shared more than 32,000 times and liked by more than 329,000 people.

People who could related to Schemm's family came out of the woodwork to share their own stories:

On Nov. 25, Kathy Wise wrote, "I remember this scene with my father also. Thank you for sharing! I did my best to help the people I knew and loved the best, take a little easier trip on to what’s next.... seeing this photo reminds me of all the preciousness of true love and greatest respect."

Robert Dorsch on Nov. 21 said much the same, "Did the same thing with my Dad in May. Cold beer and a Yankee game. My condolences."

Brittany Bowyer's response perhaps summed it up the best, saying, "So sorry for your loss. This picture is truly touching, and one that shows how happy he is in that moment. I'm glad you shared this even though you're more than likely dealing with an unbearable amount of pain. Great reminder not to take anything for granted."