A Letter to Dad

Dear Dad,

I can’t believe it has been 16 years since your passing. It was Father’s Day 1997 when Mom called to relay the news that you breathed your last breath. Uncle Jim G. was so mad because he had to leave his vacation in Yellowstone Park! Ha! But I knew the aunts and uncles would never miss your funeral. Vacation or not, they would be there….

I was not upset that you passed on Father’s Day. It actually caused me to smile because I could imagine you saying from heaven, “NOW you’ll never forget me!”. But truly Dad it would be impossible to do so.

Dad and I
Dad and I

Because you, like me, were an oldest child and it was you who stepped up, was responsible and felt the pressure. You made your presence known in a big way and I learned from your example to be a person who honors their word.

Jim and I mentioned the auto auction the other day, the one you used to take me to occasionally. For a few brief moments I could smell the sauerkraut on the hotdogs that you would buy us in the cafeteria. Mom would NEVER make anything like that at home but you introduced me to sauerkraut and I have loved it ever since!

I am grateful that you and I got to work together at the car dealership for those few precious years. You trusted me enough to leave me in charge when you and mom went away on vacations. That meant much to me and taught me great leadership skills.

Someone I was with last night mentioned Kennywood Park and I was again taken back to the times when you and mom would accompany Jim and I and the kids for a day at the amusement park. You and mom would walk around, eat all the great carnival food with us (their cotton candy was fabulous!) and watch the kids ride the roller coasters. I didn’t know then but I do know now what precious times those were.

I am trying to pay attention to those things I do lately which at first glance may seem insignificant, but could become life long good memories for Michelene, John and Gavin. The day will come when they will remember this and that about me and I want those moments to be fond remembrances, like the ones I have of you.

I am more and more aware of how short life really is. I try to remember how precious each day is and to have gratitude for all my blessings.

Happy Father’s Day Dad!!

One of my favorite pictures!
One of my favorite pictures!
It's nice to share. Thank you.

25 Replies to “A Letter to Dad”

  1. Both photos are lovely Joanne. Precious moments with a very proud father. Maybe with time we manage the ‘missing’ better but I don’t know that it lessens greatly. I expect you catch a glimpse of him in your children sometimes and wish you could tell him. Have a day of happy memories.

    1. That is a beautiful way to put it my dear. I do catch a glimpse of him in my children and also in the way I handle/do certain situations. May you have a wonderful day and thank you so much for stopping by! xo

  2. What a wonderful tribute and great pictures! I am lucky enough to still have my dad and to also have him here in Texas with me! He is just 2 short miles down the road!
    Happy fathers day to Jim also!

  3. What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man! Loved the pics Jo! I have fond memories of your dad as well. Our dad’s were strict but had big hearts that would melt in a minute for their little girls. We were truly blessed!!!! – Kathy

  4. wonderful tribute Joanne. Your father sure was a handsome man and it looks like he loved his little girl an awful lot. You look soo sweet in your wedding dress and happy with your dad on your wedding day. I always think I will write my memories down but havent as of yet. You are soo right, life is soo precious and fleeting. I also do try to pay attention to the making of memories, especially now with my grandchildren.

  5. Joanne, such a sweet tribute to your father. He sounds like a loving father giving you precious memories to hold for the rest of your life and beyond. The photos are a lovely glimpse into your life with him…a handsome, strong looking man. Father’s Day will always be a little more special to you.

    Yes, my mom passed away on Memorial Day (night), and then a few days later I came across a video with her playing with my son when he was a baby, and she said, “Will you remember your grandma, Robert, I’ll remember you.”…it struck me how fitting she would go on Memorial Day.

    May your father’s love surround you always,
    Marianne xo

    1. Hi Marianne, your words are so eloquent and it is good to hear from you. I love that you found the video of your mom and son- that is so precious! I have thought of you often and your loss and wonder how I will ever deal with the same issue when the day comes. Ah…one day at a time and everything is possible with the Grace of God. xo Joanne

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