I have waited longer than I should have to post my memorial for my father. I really did think if I waited a little bit, it would be easier. Guess I was wrong. Right now, I don't think it will ever get easier, but I know in my heart it will. I want to thank my wife, Beth, not only for setting up this website, but for being the rock that holds us all together in this time of loss with her selfless love and caring. For myself, I couldn't have gotten through it without her. Dad would be proud of you.
My father was a very important influence in my life, whether he realized it fully or not. I loved him for who and what he was, no exceptions. He was loved by all who knew him, and that is no small feat. He taught me so many things growing up that I carry with me to this day. He taught me a love for fishing that has never left me. He taught me how to love boating safely and how to water ski, and I hope my family appreciates Jack's contribution to my development in this. He taught me how to be a leader, deep down inside, that I feel is one of the most important things he passed to me growing up. He taught me it wasn't a good idea to try and catch alligators with bacon on a fishing pole, and I am relieved to say I have never tried that one. He taught me to shoot his rifle in case we ever had issues with the snakes while fishing off the levy in Louisiana. Sorry Mom, you might not have known about that one. He taught me his love of story-telling, though I may have cut a corner or two with my own kids on that one. Sorry guys.
I am proud you were my father, and eternally grateful I had more time with you these past few years than life afforded me while raising my own family. While I was always your #2 son my entire life (which was never meant the way it sounded), you were always my #1 Dad.