Princess Mary and her family are in mourning after her father-in-law, Prince Henrik of Denmark, 83, passed away after a rollercoaster life serving the Danish people.
Woman’s Day understands Mary and her husband Prince Frederik took their four children, Prince Christian, 12, Princess Isabella, 10, and seven-year old twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine to bid an emotional goodbye to “Farfar” (Danish for grandfather) before he tragically succumbed to a lung tumour on February 13.
Henrik was hospitalised with the condition in January, and last year was diagnosed with dementia.
Mary helps her loved ones during this difficult time.
Henrik died in his sleep on February 13, at the age of 83.
“The Prince was surrounded by Her Majesty the Queen and their two sons.”
A palace spokesperson later confirmed Frederik, his brother Prince Joachim and mother Queen Margrethe were at Henrik’s bedside in Fredensborg Castle, 40km from Copenhagen, when he passed away in his sleep.
Frederik rushed back from the Winter Olympics in South Korea to be with his family.
While he and Margrethe will be consumed by organising Henrik’s funeral, Woman’s Day understands Princess Mary has stepped forward to be the family’s emotional support.
“Mary was drawn to her father-in-law when she moved to Denmark.”
Their Farfar (Danish for grandfather) was huge part of the Aussie royal’s family.
“Fred’s amazed at how well Mary is coping through this – she’s being so resilient for their kids, who are a little confused and terribly sad,” a Danish royal source shared.
“She’s a tower of strength for Fred, who’s just lost his dad. Mary remembers how painful it was when her mother died, so she’s made it her mission to be there to comfort everyone.”
That sadness is being echoed by the entire Danish community, who are rallying around to support Queen Margrethe, Fred, Mary and the rest of the family.
For the full story on Mary stepping up, be sure to pick up the latest copy of Woman’s Day on stands now.
