coworker losing his father

[ijack]

A coworker's father passed away this weekend. I've only been in this group for 2 months and don't know the coworker very well and obviously didn't know his dad. I'd like to send an email, but struggle with stuff like this. Should I just say
"Coworker, I am so sorry about the passing of your father, you and your family will be in my thoughts." Or is there something that is better?
Thanks!

[mbcdefg]

I appreciated people telling me they were sorry for my loss. Luckily they didn't dwell on it ... I honestly just wanted to get back to work and focus on something else for a while. I was tired of feeling sad and having to talk about it with people.

I think what you've written is fine.

[Susie]

Jan 7, 2013 10:43:33 GMT -5 ijack said:

A coworker's father passed away this weekend. I've only been in this group for 2 months and don't know the coworker very well and obviously didn't know his dad. I'd like to send an email, but struggle with stuff like this. Should I just say
"Coworker, I am so sorry about the passing of your father, you and your family will be in my thoughts." Or is there something that is better?
Thanks!

Under the circumstances (you being pretty new), that sounds fine. You acknowledge the loss, and express your condolences. If there's anything you can offer to help with at work, that might be nice, but otherwise you are good.

[ijack]

He's not back at work yet (hence the email), and our group did send some flowers for the funeral.

[raangoli]

I think what you've written is fine.

[countthestars]

I like what you have.

[morningmania]

I would do a card whether that is from yourself or from a group. I would feel very weird about an impersonal email from someone I barely knew. I would be fine with a card.

[6fsn]

I'd do a card instead of email.

[ellipses84]

I would say send a card, because if it were me and I were back at work and email like that might make me cry and I would want to focus on work. However, since he's not back yet and the group already sent a gift, I think an email is ok. Just tell him to let you know if he needs anything during this tough time, work or otherwise.

[ohbirdie]

I was in the same situation. I had just started working there and a co-workers father passed. The company sent flowers, etc. I couldn't make it to the funeral. It was awkward. I just stopped by his office and offered my sympathy. That was all I felt I could do. I think you will be just fine.