Memories of Dad are many. He would provide for our family by working two jobs, planting huge gardens, hunting for food, and cutting wood for winter’s heat. Never-the-less he always found time for family fun and games.
Scenes passing before me are that of Halloween costumes, sleigh riding, ice skating, and birthday parties giving way to ball games, driving lessons, and crazy hats all mingled with fearful recollections of his possible demise while repairing the steep roof of our 3 – story high home. Dad was enthusiastic about water skiing, canoeing, camping, and bicycling. I remember many walks with him to and from his lean-to on the hill, target practice, subtle jokes/pranks, and canoe racing with the cedar strip he and his son-in-law had made. Dad’s war stories were intriguing and his profound experiences were only made clear through his violent nightmares.
After the purchase of my home Dad added to the above inventory of our time together by helping maintain the house and its surroundings. Subsequently, after the birth of my son, Dad – along with Mom – took on the responsibility of nurturing Seth and giving him a strong background in life’s many lessons.
Entering into his later years, leaving 48 years of residency and memories behind in Merrickville, Dad –and Mom- moved to Tryon’s Corners where a new and slower paced life began. Vivid views surround me here of Dad spending time with me and his two youngest grandchildren. Even though Dad had grown a little slower, he continued to cook many a pancake breakfast and roast marsh-mellows over the open fire pit. He would venture on his, daily, 6 mile bike ride down River Road (often with us), go down the creek to the “Indian Village� fishing with Seth, shoot basketball hoops with his grandchildren, swing on the patio reminiscing with neighbors of past experiences, care for stray animals, and pick pesky dandelions off the yard.
Memories of Dad show that he was dedicated to God, Country, and Family. His wealth cannot be measured as far as monetary value is considered however he was rich in sharing his priceless gift of love and time with all who knew him.
Dad, you will always be in my heart and I look forward to the day our broken circle will, once again, be whole.
