Today my first love, hero, advice giver, and advocate turns 60! He's a son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandpa, team mate, dog owner, boss, salesman, and friend to many. Lots of people have worn similar hats in their life but a fewer number have done it with the integrity and loyalty that my Dad has. Driven in his early years by a strict father, later becoming a strict father, and ultimately pushing himself even still to do the right thing even when it's hard, he's a man surrounded by success. He is kind and gentle yet firm and fierce. He is friendly to everyone but has no problem standing up for something when you are out of line. He loves his family and his dog. He has run marathons, traveled around the world, played instruments, given more blood to the blood bank than any person I know, recycles religiously, gives generously, loves music, cars, and swimming in the ocean. He will talk to a stranger, friend the friendless, and be family to those who have none. He takes care of the elderly and has impressed the importance of doing so on others too. His cholesterol is ridiculously low yet he is an ice cream king. He never missed a dance recital or competition...even when the other Dads were playing golf. He loves my Mom and modeled romance well. He was tough on my boyfriends, until I met the right one. When he holds my daughters....I remember what it was like to be his little girl. The first 60 years have been more than admirable and I can't wait to see what the next decades look like for my beloved Daddy!
Happy Birthday....we love you Dad, Father-in-law, and Papa.
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