Loss of mom and dad

[sparks19]

Perhaps get him a nice card. something you can give him to let him know you are sorry for his loss but that he could look at privately if he chooses or after work if he thinks he might break down reading it

[K9karen]

IMO, I think getting a b-day card and baking a cake is a great idea. As my dad would say when I often asked how I'd function without him and mom (even at my age), "Life goes on".
Your boss's birthday will always come. I think warm feelings from his employees is a sweet idea. It's seperate from his loss.

I for one, appreciated people's sympathy. "what can I do for you" is an excellent idea. Just don't say "they're in a better place". That may be true, thank you very much, but the best place would be on earth, in physical form, with me.

My prayers go out to him. How sad.

[Taz_Zoee]

That must be so difficult. I can't imagine losing one parent, much less both so close together.
I agree, do what you normally would for his birthday. Don't assume you shouldn't just because of this. Especially since he is a private guy like you stated. If you didn't do the norm it might draw more attention to the other issue and he doesn't need that either.
And I also agree with what others said, just be there for him. However that may be.

[Karen]

Simply telling him you are sorry for his loss, and if he needs to talk, ever, you'd be there for him. I would not make a HUGE fuss over his birthday next week, but a cake and card would be nice. He may not feel like celebrating, but a quiet reminder that there are people who care about him would be appreciated, I bet.