A letter to my Dad

I lost my wonderful Dad on New Year's Day at age 95! He was ready to go, but I'm missing him. There doesn't seem to be any way I could possibly thank him for all he's done but I'd like to just write this list to him, to thank him for just a few things he's given me over the years.

Though you really didn't expressly give us much advice,Dad, you taught us so much I just wanted to remember a few of my special thoughts about you . . .

1- When I came home one day and found you crying over the loss of your closest friend I learned that friendships are dear and to be cherished

2- When we made our annual trips to Colorado to see your mother, and when Mom's mother came to live with us I learned that family is precious and our parents are to be cherished and respected

3- When you came home from work and you always complimented Mom on the dinner and thanked her, I learned you should be kind and appreciative to your partner

4- When you chose never to gossip, I learned it was to be avoided

5- When you never rose your voice in anger, I learned to discuss things in even tones

6- When you took Grandma to china painting classes at age 90, I learned that it is never to late to learn something new.

7- When you built the beautiful home we lived in, fixed the cars, worked in the yard, reupholstered chairs, etc., I learned that it's good to work hard and accomplish things.

8- When you took us on a special vacation every year, I learned it's good to learn how to relax and when you sat with me in the first row of "the comet" rollercoaster when I was 6 and whooped the whole way down, I learned to really love the fun of it.

9- When you taught me how to drive a tractor, use a chainsaw, change my car tires and oil, I learned that being a female doesn't mean being weak

10- When you went to work and came home at the same time every day, and won many awards as an engineer, I learned responsibility and pride in a professional career

11- When you put John Phillip Sousa on loud on a Saturday morning, I learned that the morning is not to be wasted!

12- When you attended all of my musical performances, I learned that you supported me in my interests.

13- When you put all of your daughters through college without complaint, I learned to do the same.

14- When you and Mom retired early and took up square dancing, tennis, bike riding, etc., I learned that it's good to have hobbies and interests

15- When you helped neighbors by fixing sprinkler pumps, giving them rides, fixing cars, preparing taxes, etc., and never heard it from you (but from Mom), I learned that it's good to help others without expecting anything in return.

16- When you took the time to be a wonderful Grandpa to my children -- and to always be patient when explaining things to them, I learned the same (though I never did it as well as you, Pop)

17- When you would gently help our old golden retriever up, when she was hurting, I learned it's good to treat animals with kindness.

18- When you sold your tractor and the buyer's check bounced and you went and took the tractor back, I learned we can be kind without being a pushover

19- When you drank only one glass of wine, exercised regularly and ate in moderation, I learned that taking care of health is important.

20- When you lay in your hospital bed, confused, aching and exhausted, and smiled at everyone who came into your room and never complained, and thanked everyone who helped you in any way, I learned that your true nature is so very good, and kind and unselfish --

You have left me with so many memories and I am so thankful to have had these 56 years with you, that I can't begin to express my gratitude.

I think the best way to thank you, is to try and be more like you, and I will truly try.