Remembering My Dad This Father's Day

Fathers Day, for me, is a look into the past. Sure, Ill honor my husband who I think is one of the best Dads God created. And I will give thanks for my father-in-law, a man we have the opportunity to honor at a family reunion next month. And, I will celebrate my son-in-law on his second Fathers Day. But, for me, Fathers Day is a time of remembering.

My Dad left this world September 16, 1980, one year and three days after Mom. That doesnt seem like it would be so important, except for two things. One, my Dad took his role of family breadwinner and caretaker very seriously. He wouldnt dare die first. And two, Dad had emphysema for a few years before my moms cancer was diagnosed. After Mom died, Dad was in and out of the hospital often. In the hospital, when not coughing, Dad was usually sleeping, whether worn out from his illness (your heart overworks when you have trouble breathing) or residual of the medications. Someone visiting him and seeing him sleeping said " He wont last a year without Laura. " I think my Dad, competitive and cantankerous, heard that comment and was determined to stay alive a year+ - just to prove him wrong. I realize God is in control of life and death, but, I can hear my Dad asking God for that one last thing. Why that should be important isnt comprehended by most, but I think those of Dads generation would understand it.

My Dad was born in 1912 - hed be 98 years old if still alive. Dad taught me much about living life well.

Dad desired knowledge. He had to drop out of school after 8th grade to work because his father died. Back then, you did what you had to do to help your family. Lack of traditional schooling did not slow him down. He was an athlete, a runner, and that talent and the gumption that accompanies it served him well throughout his life. Everything he did, he gave it his all. I learned to do my best from him.

I remember Dad reading encyclopedias as most would read newspapers or a novel. He read them cover to cover. Each day, he would complete the newspaper crossword puzzle. He loved words and hated when they were misused. I imagine him in Heaven, thrilled to see that words are my job! His penmanship was perfect - if he was alive today, hed have his own font!

Dad was a patriotic man, though he never served in the Armed Forces. I believe he worked with the CCC program, but Im not sure. Early in the morning each 4th of July Dad woke me up, we put the flag on the flagpole and went to breakfast. Dad had a very heavy duty flagpole in the front yard and he used it, not just on holidays. He taught me flag etiquette.

In his life, Dad owned a Phillips 66 service station, made tents and awnings, was a roofer and an audiologist. I know there were other things in there, but I dont know what they were. There is only one time in my life I remember times being rough. Dad was starting an insulation company and his partner ran off with everything leaving my dad to make restitution. He handled the experience honorably. I think that was the year I learned to like green beans with potatoes and ham hocks, an inexpensive meal when you have a garden.

My Dad had a knack for landscaping and growing things. His garden and yard were always beautiful. I seriously believe there is a " yard " gene in my family. My brothers yards are near perfect and I love working outside.

Dad could fix anything: cars, build a house, antique clocks, anything you brought to him. He often had his current repair project spread out on the dining room table.

Dad enjoyed cooking, especially if it was breakfast in the Colorado mountains. We lived most of my growing up years in a city at the foot of Pikes Peak. Several times a year wed pack up food and utensils and head to Cheyenne Mountain. If we lingered, it might warm up enough to take off our coats. I can still smell the food and feel the very icy water from the stream.

Dad had some musical talents. He could sing, but I didnt hear him often. He taught himself how to play the violin and played (sort of) as Mom accompanied him on piano.

Dad was an artist. He could take a piece of wood and work it into a piece of art. I still have a wooden valentine he made for my mom in 1931. Everyone was broke, so he used a piece of wood and fashioned an heirloom. He made toys with working parts. I have furniture in my home today that he made.

My Dad had a love of photography and an great eye for it. He took pictures of everything from food cooking to lightning. Now, my kids know where I get it! He didnt have a tripod, so he would set his camera on a ladder. I can picture him, still.

The technology of his day fascinated him and I believe if he was still alive hed have a facebook account and a smart phone.

Dad was protective, conservative and liberal all at the same time. These beliefs did not clash, as you might think. He believed his country was the greatest on earth, but did not believe everything his government wanted him to believe. He thought for himself and came to his own conclusions. As I was growing up I remember Dads fears about our country. He believed if America fell, it would be without a war. From within. He believed guns wouldnt be involved. Ive heard this as an adult from other sources. Sometimes I wonder if our law-suit happy, overly politically correct leanings are what he meant? That extremes: greed and laziness would topple our nation to the point we have nothing to offer others or ourselves. Time will tell.

At least once a week someone came over for the evening or we visited someone. Sometimes neighbors, sometimes relatives. If he liked you he teased you….mercilessly. He amazed my friends as he would stand up from being seated, cross-legged on the floor with no effort. My friends would have him do it over and over. He was almost 60 and was in great physical condition, but the smoking eventually caught up with him.

Dad taught me many things in the 25 years I was blessed to spend with him. He taught me to work hard, do my best, own up to my mistakes, love, serve and the most important thing of all: God. Dad taught me to always take it to God. Happy Fathers Day, Dad. I wish my kids could have known you. I was blessed that you were my Dad; you prepared me well. I am glad I will see you again!