Can you imagine planning your own funeral?

That’s a duty United States presidents typically perform early in their terms in office.

President George H.W. Bush died on Friday, and funeral services are going to be held today in Houston, Texas.

Prior to the funeral, Bush’s body lied in state at the U.S. Capital Rotunda in Washington, D.C. from Monday through today.

The state funeral will be held at the National Cathedral; a private funeral is slated for today at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston, and he will be buried in a family plot behind the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum at Texas A&M University, according to reports.

After hearing of his passing, I couldn’t help but think back over the life of the 41st president.

Bush dedicated more than 40 years of his life to public service. He served as the vice president, in congress, as an ambassador, director of the Central Intelligence Agency and more.

He served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1942-1945 in the fast carrier task force. He was a lieutenant and was awarded the distinguished flying cross medal, the air medal and the presidential unit citation.

According to my research, the whole funeral timeline lasts about five days.

Typically, a funeral for a citizen is encompassed in two days with a visitation and service.

As the nation mourns Bush, we’re also celebrating the former president’s life. I guess that’s why it takes five days.

I’m interested in seeing how the military will handle the arrangements during his full military honors funeral.

I know that sounds kind of morbid, but the whole process fascinates me.

While I’m going to pay close attention to all of the details involved, I’ll be thinking about a man who sacrificed so much for the country.

Thanks Mr. President.