Life’s journeyfor a very special man sadly came to an end today. He left a legacy which is difficult to describe in words. Perhaps, suffice to say, he had a fervent desire to be a good husband and father. He was not a great scientist nor a famous doctor, lawyer, or entertainer. Yet, to me during my growing years, he was all of them.

Oh, he had some funny little quirks like paying his bills on time and never obtaining a credit card. He bought and paid for a modest home and got along with his neighbors. He took his family to church on Sunday and to picnics in the park. He tried to help kids with their homework but found it difficult to understand the new teaching methods. He was not a sports fan but watched college football.

Opera was not exactly his thing. He enjoyed country music, even liking it better when they left their guitars at home. He actually wore a tuxedo once, and his card playing consisted of a game of “500” around the kitchen table with his family.

For many years, he was up early and off to work while I was still in bed. We were not affluent. Perhaps the highest recognition of my father’s financial ability was when the bank president started addressing him as “Mister.” But we always had the basic necessities of home, heat, food, and adequate clothing. Of course, there were good times and bad. But he always made it to the top of the hill.

When I visited him last, I noticed a little smile of contentment, reflecting the feeling of success in his heart at being a good husband and father -- a smile of love, patience, and affection that made him a very special person. This morning, his tired heart came to rest.

Tonight I am without him for the first time. I feel lost, sad, and lonely. I miss you, Dad.