06/17/2024
In loving memory of my departed Dad
I fondly remember you, “Pappy” as the pillar of strength and secure source of love in our family. As a father to me and my four brothers and four sisters, you exemplified kindness and exhibited confident leadership in everything you did.
Not a day goes by that I don't miss you deeply. Dad I yearn for the opportunity to relive cherished moments with you, whether it was playing doubles tennis with you and your buddies, devouring your famous Wimpie's burgers, engaging in intense games of chess, checkers or Pinochle, or seeking your wise counsel on how to navigate stressful situations. You were always there for me, and your unwavering availability to me remains a testament to your selflessness.
Despite the challenges of raising nine kids, alongside Mom and Grandma, you provided us with a shelter under the security of your roof.
You worked your way through night school on the GI Bill (WWII Navy Vet) to earn your degree - over 9 years-even though you were bone tired from earning a living working all day in a very smelly hazardous environment at a local Monsanto chemical plant.
You bought our family large station wagons instead of secretly desired Corvette convertibles, and you sat without yawning through endless school plays that took precedence over attending the symphony that you loved.
You drove us all to the St Louis Zoo on hot humid summer days, spending a great dea of time pushing baby strollers up hills and running us boys on hurried trips to the bathroom.
Your baritone singing voice was hypnotizing, and the memory of your solos performed during Sunday Mass still gloriously lingers in my mind.
You always greeted each of us kids with a warm welcoming smile and offered up the most comforting hugs whenever needed -or just because!
I consider myself truly blessed to have been given a father like you. I am still in awe of how you managed to ensure that each of your nine children had their own special moments to share with you every single day.
On this Father's Day, I honor you, Dad, and express my gratitude for the profound impact you have had on my life. I continue to learn from your example Continually striving to be a better man with your expert spiritual guidance and example serving as my moral compass.
Thank you for everything you did for me. I love you, always, and your memory will never fade and forever live in my heart. ❤️ 💪 🙏