Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Dad, you had a long, healthy, and productive life. I feel very fortunate to have had you in my life for 70 years. You were there for all the major events of my life, and I really appreciate that. Not only were you a great dad, you have been a great father-in-law and grandfather for my family as well.
You provided me with support and love in my formative years and throughout my life. I have countless memories. Here are some that come to mind.
-Fishing trips in the summer
-Taking me to hockey and cub scouts after long days of work
-Teaching me home repair skills and gardening strategies
-Attending my basketball games in St. Catharines
-Sending me off to my first year at University
-Being a part of our wedding
-Helping us build our recreation room in Milton
-Sharing our joy on the birth of Paul and David
-Attending my retirement dinners at North York and Markham
-Providing advice and support on our purchase of a cottage
-Sharing time with me in my retirement
You were also a great father-in-law. You were an important part of Nancy’s life. Your great big welcoming hugs show that she was an important part of your life as well. She particularly admired your creativity, your sense of humour, your appreciation of beauty, and your “joie de vivre”.
Paul and David have been fortunate to have had you as their grandfather. Although you had a large number of grandchildren, you found time to treat each as an individual. You were excellent with them as babies and small children. You played with them and even acted as a human trampoline! As they grew older, you attended their parties, games and ceremonies. You have maintained your interest in their life as adults. Paul and Dave have many fond memories of their time with you. You warmly welcomed our daughter-in-laws, Veronica and Bessie, into the family. We are really happy you had the chance to meet our granddaughter Emily.
Lastly, although you were struggling with memory loss and health problems in the final chapter of your life at Amica, you always conducted yourself with dignity, and good humor. You made new friends with the residents and staff at Amica. As I pushed you through the halls, there were many smiles and greetings of “Hi Frank!”. We will always remember the warmth and love you showed us when we visited.
Dad, you showed many positive characteristics that I have strived to emulate throughout my life. Your actions over the years have provided a great role model.
The greatest inspiration to us has been your determination to get the most life has to offer. Your passion for your garden, your loyalty to friends, your attention to world affairs and the environment, your work on house repairs, your enjoyment of sports and bridge, and your dedication to family all demonstrate a positive attitude to life that serves as a fine example to us all.
Dad, thank you very much for everything you have done for us. We are all very proud of you and we all love you very much. We miss you and will never forget you.
Alan & Nancy, Paul & Veronica, David & Bessie
P.S. We also loved your jokes and your songs!
