As for animals, well, we had them all;

     it seemed so, at least at the time.

Some were grown to give us food,

     others we played with,… sublime!

At Christmas you managed to fool us;

     year after year, “Santa” would come,

with music, toys and clothing,

     and games for much family fun.

Dear Dad, how did you do it? Working, building and more;

Few could ever have done what you did,

     I even remember the store.

The gas station and store, there in Hopewell,

     was small but took so much time;

The day you got scalded was frightening,

     I prayed you’d survive and be fine.

As always, you suffered in silence,

     continuing each task you must do,

an example of bravery and courage,

     I thank God for a Dad like you!

In fall we’d go to some orchard,

     apples and peaches to pick,

we all pitched in and earned money,

     then make ice cream, to lick!

Your life seemed full of work on work,

     with precious few moments for fun;

and Mom was there beside you,

     ‘til she left to see Jesus, the Son. 

Then in His infinite mercy, Nancy came as your bride;

 Your face took on a new image,

     full of confidence, good humor and pride.

She’s helped you attain a new outlook,

     that life can be joyful and fun,

You’ve tackled new things and succeeded,

     in taking on life at a run!

You’ve fought letting pain destroy you,

     you’re determined to continue to live;

You give of your strength and your mercy,

     each week to the homeless you give.

God bless you, Dear Dad, you’re my idol,

     I wish I’d been better, for you;

My life’s been compiled of misjudgment, 

     if I could, my adult life, I’d redo.

Thank you, Dad, for all you’ve done,

     you’re a man and father, so true ,

As I look back, I’m filled with awe,

    and I pray for God’s blessings on you.

I wish I could visit, but finances just don’t permit,

So I send you my love and best wishes,

     if there’s a winner of Dad’s

                                 Then You’re IT!