High-strung, grumpy, and temperamental: that was my dad, or so people claimed. But to me, his only daughter, Daddy was the sweetest man on earth. He did not express his love verbally, but by giving me little presents. The most precious gift Daddy gave was the gift of his time. Daddy and I often sat together and played “poesia.” He would name a subject, and I would compose a poem about it. Naturally, Daddy would always proclaim my poetry to be in a class with Dante’s! It’s all because of Daddy’s encouragement that I’m now a freelance writer.

Although my dad's nickname was "Grump," I never met a person who did so much for his wife and his kids without ever actually talking about it or discussing its cost. His recent death after a battle with cancer has shed more light on my views of him when he was in the Vietnam War, and I now realize where I get all of my organizational skills and my humbleness. My undying love for all sports teams Philadelphia and my passion of constantly working hard and contributing as much as I can to my family all comes from him and makes me a better person. - Newtown, PA

My dad, John, who will be 88 this August, is a World War II veteran, and because he was injured in battle, was presented a Purple Heart. After the war, he went to college and became an accountant, and retired in 2006 at the ripe old age of 81. He was a great dad-supportive of his 2 children in their ventures through life and loyal to his family, friends, organizations, and now takes care of his wife, my mother, after 60 years of marriage. She has been showing signs of dementia and Alzheimer's for a few years, and I give him credit-it's not an easy job-but he said "that's what I signed up for"! Love ya, Dad! Middletown, NY/now in Catasauqua PA

My father, Frank, was a blue-collar bartender. He epitomized South Philadelphia and dressed like someone out of Goodfellas. He was not perfect, but he gave me street smarts and taught me to do what I love and love what I do. He was my mother’s best friend and a shining example of fatherhood. He passed away in 2003. He never got the chance to see me get married or buy a house in Abington. But he still lives on in my heart and in my actions as I attempt to be the sort of man he was… flaws and all.

My Father passed when I was 16 years old. I am 60 years old myself now, but I still feel like he is always with me. I am a Father and grand-Father now. I see my Father in different ways in my sons and Grand-kids. So that makes me fell so warm inside. I love you Dad, I know you are with me in heart and sole.

My father is a true gift. I could go on about military service, going to college while working full time and raising four children with the most amazing woman ever, my mother. But, over the years, this incredible man has taught me what love and family truly mean. In 2002 when my brother died, he was overwhelmed with grief yet held us together. Nine years later we buried his grandson, my son. If not for him, mom, and my sisters, I would have fallen apart. He gives me strength to continue to live. I am Blessed! Love you more Dad!

My Dad at 91 is still the person I would most like to emulate. He is a WWll Veteran,a loving husband of over 60 years and a business man that employed hundreds of people over his career.The world is a safer and better place because of him. I hope that I can measure up to the love and support he gives to so many. David Cutler

How do you get to know a father who "left the family" when you were 6, as he struggled with mental illness? No easy answers. Our grandmother, aunts and mother made sure we spent time with Dad. Where ever he was, we visited. Sometimes, we picnicked on the mental hospital grounds or brought in food. Now, my sister and I stay connected, taking Dad to dinner, ball games or on weekend visits. We drive several hours, bringing our children and his grandchildren. Living apart from Dad our entire lives, we have come to know this amazing man. What a gift!

[I posted a picture and something longer I wrote about my dad in the pictures section, but I have condensed it to 100 words to meet the rules of this competition. This is my entry]

Speaking of his father, the author Clarence Budington Kelland said, "He didn't tell me how to live; he lived and let me watch him do it." This too, described my dad, Alan G. Miller. Though he spent a lifetime in the classroom teaching his students through lectures and examinations, the best lessons he taught me were through his own example.

My dad was a wonderful man who touched a great many lives, but to his children and grandchildren, he will always be remembered as the hero we saw when we looked up at him through the eyes of a child.

i never really got to know my dad ..1st lt willim a brady jr was an army air corps pilot who few 65 missions in ww11..he didnt have to but he volunteered to reenlist in the us air force when the korean war started and was killed in a mid-air collision on 8/23/50.he left behind his wife and 3 small children with 1 on the way...mom says he told her he reenlisted so that someday his sons wouldnt have to go to war...my hero.

proud

My Dad was an awesome fellow who was involved with so many things, from singing baritone in the Langhorne P. Church's choir as well as the US Steel Chorus (now called Men of Harmony), even did some time as a volunteer Middletown police officer, to being an EMT and a volunteer fireman of Parkland long long time ago ( that was from a member of the second alarmer's in Philly long before that). He worked as an accountant at U. S. Steel for many years and did other jobs like delivering fruit baskets. He did many more things just as important, especially worked around the house doing all sorts or repairs with my mom, brothers, and me. The two of us would go to a small tower near where we lived to watch for unknown aircraft early on sat mornings even though I was afraid of heights, I knew that with him there I was ok. His life was filled with all sorts of interesting things to do even just going on a Sunday drive through upper Bucks Co.& some times we'd get lost but was great to see how quick he'd find a way home. The best thing he taught us all was that love and kindness were all important. I cherish those times even the parts that were hard because they taught me deeper growth and even with his physical body no longer here I know he's around checking up to see how we are all doing. I love ya Dad!! <3 <3 <3

I lost my father at three and didn’t get a chance to “replace” him until I met my father in law. Gerry is an incredible man, who has filled a void in my own childhood with his oversized heart and love for family. When people meet him I typically hear: “No wonder Andrew is such a wonderful man, look at his parents.” My father in law raised four wonderful boys each from cub to Eagle Scout; providing many opportunities for them to become strong well mannered citizens. He exemplifies the definition of fatherhood. I’m proud to call him Dad

My father, Bill, grew up in an abusive home and decided that his family would be different. He has always served others. As a teenager, my dad worked to feed and clothe his 6 bro. & sis. He stepped in to protect his mother from being beat by his father on day. After bailing his dad out of prison, he was told to leave his home. He enlisted in the Army and went on to serve our country for 35+ yrs. My dad was soccer coach, Girl Scout leader, Sunday School teacher, volunteer fireman, homeroom parent and still went to every activity we had. There was a time that my father held three jobs at once and took college courses on the weekend. My brother had been critically ill and insurance did not foot the bill.
My dad has been the greatest role model for his children. He frequently would be ' the dad' for a lot of kids in our circles or the neighborhood, who did not have a father or a good dad in their lives. There was always a game of football, wireball or soccer in front of our house and my dad and his goofy songs were at the center of it. He taught us how to build rockets, transitor radios, camp out in the woods,, widdle acorn- cob pipes, find clay in river beds, fish, and tell the trees apart.

Dad, for everything you have done for others in the world around you, I thank you for being the best example of how a life should be lived. You have omy deepest love and respect. Shellie

My parents divorced when I was 5 and unfortunately we were kept away from my Dad. We did see our Dad once when I was 7 and then we moved to CA as my step father was in the navy. When I was 16, things got so bad, that I had to leave. By some miracle, I found him still living in ME and my step mother and him wired me a ticket that morning so I could fly to ME and live with them. I left 3 days later.
When I needed him, he was there and always has been for all three of us.
It has'nt been easy, but I am so grateful for what he, (and my step-mom) did for us.
My Daddy has the biggest heart and loves us soo much as we do him, He does know it too.
I am 50 years old now and am still Daddy's little girl. I love you, Dad, with all my heart and am so happy and grateful to be able to call you my Daddy.
Cindy S.

My father grew up poor in a foreign country. He began working at a young age and flew to America to attend college and medical school. While his math SAT scores were almost perfect, he completely failed the English/verbal section because he didn't know the language. His dreams of becoming a doctor after serving as a medic and spending tireless hours at an after school laboratory, he graduated to become a hard-working contractor. With tremendous physical exertion, hard work and persistence, he built up a business and worked 6 days a week. But all of that only helps to highlight the greatness of his generosity. For my entire 32 years, I have seen my father slip money under people's tablecloths, hide envelopes in people's homes and pay for things anonymously, not because he was rich, but because he could give, and so he did. He continues to be an extremely generous man always helping, with or without being asked, in his washed out jeans and old, faded tshirts. For himself, the simple life has been sufficient, but for his children and community, he has gone above and beyond any citizen's call of duty. Happy Fathers Day!

Words cannot describe the amazing, dedicated, hard-working man I call "Dad," but I will try. My dad is a plumber by trade. His work ethic makes the work of 100 men look worthless. He is loyal, trustworthy, and the best man I know. He deserves nothing but the best that life has to offer. I love him so much, and I am so grateful that God gave me to him. He is the best dad in the world!

My father grew up poor in another country. He flew to America to attend college and medical school. His math SAT scores were perfect, but he (understandably) failed the verbal section. His dreams of becoming a doctor, after serving as a medic and working in a laboratory, dwindled. He became a contractor. With tremendous physical exertion and persistence, he built up a business that allowed him to give. I have seen my father hide money in people's homes and pay for things anonymously, not because he was rich, but because he could. My father helps anyone who cannot help himself.

My dad is the one of the nicest people I know. He doesn't always know how to express his feelings through words, but through actions instead. When I was struggling financially he began making my monthly car payments. When he receives free coupons, etc he usually gives them to me. Recently, he was given a free coupon for a car wash from his work. He has a car, but took my car to get it washed instead. I am so thankful for my dad and blessed that he cares for me so much. I would love the $500 to give to him to thank him for those couple of years that he made my monthly car payments.

BOYCE BRANDON HARRIS - ( in prime of his life, impressed Matthew Harris)

April 9th 1929, my father gasped his first breath of air
Head populated with black curly locks
No pediatrician at his home birth, when he uttered that initial blare
Nor preschool instructors extant to teach him building blocks
Inherent in double helix strand, his father designed many a fancy chair
Passed along blueprint to this youngest of three offspring and second heir
Whose inquisitiveness found him roam Manhattan far and near
Plus or minus penchant with science & mathematics I.Q. in the stratosphere
Those mental cogs, wheels and gear
Found those piercing black eyes to peer
Way beyond the New York City skyline, where he pined to tear
Him, which “Big Apple”, he loathed and thus latent smarts did create career
Path, which whipsawed him thru multitudinous exotic places that he, did dare
Himself to traverse – from the Korean front to General Electric where
He secured employment as a mechanical engineer
Within aerospace, industry, and completed my academic projects with flair
Who essentially earned me a passing grade just by the chin whisker hair
And by physical might, I wished he served as bodyguard when kids did jeer
This quiet skinny boy, who felt intimidated when bullies spewed names with a leer
Yet I never expressed to my 83 year-old widower father
Cuz we never got emotionally near
How much his 53-year-old son does love him and genuinely care.

I have to say I had the best dad in the world. When he was a young man he got laid off from his job and that was it, he decided to have his own company. My father started off with a small truck picking up trash and then he made his own company.
(He wasn't the biggest company but certainly the best). He gave his children everythting we needed. Love, support, a wonderful home, with help from his wife of course. My dad had passed away 2 years ago now but I have to say daddy thanks for all you have given us and I love and miss you more than you know. Love your very proud daughter. xoxo Happy Father's Day!!

I love my story because its the truth. My father gave his heart to all of us and I appreciate his love he gave us. Thanks dad!!! Your the best. I miss you with all my heart but I know in my heart I can say I am so proud to say you we my dad. Love Donna

My "dad" is actually my uncle. He has raised me since I was 7 years old due to my mothers drug and alcohol addiction. I do not know who my birth father is. My uncle, who I have considered my Dad for 15 years has sacrificed so much for me which I have appreciated so much. He was happily married before I moved in with him. Shortly after he became my guardian, his marriage started to fall apart which left him with the decision to choose between me or his wife.. he chose me. I watched him fall apart because it was such a huge responsibility to suddenly have to raise his sister's child. He worked so hard to give me the average life, and for a single "father" he did an amazing job. He would always take me to amusement parks, sports games, wrestling shows, camping, fishing and never put anyone else before me. If it wasnt for him, I would have ended up doing drugs and drinking just like everybody else in my family who is suffering. He is an amazing man and even though he is not my biological father, I will always consider him my dad :)

Arizona golfers who slice a shot deep into the rough or hook one into the desert probably figure their golf balls will never be seen again. But not all of those errant balls are gone forever. For more than a decade, my dad, Jim Handrigan, has collected lost golf balls, cleaned, seperated, boxed and sold them, and donated 100 percent of the proceeds to charity. To date, he and other volunteers have collected more than 1 million golf balls and raised more than $120,000. The proceeds have bought clothes for more than 900 children in association with Kid's Closet, a SaddleBrooke Community Outreach program that was founded in 1997 in Arizona.
I am so proud of my dad as his efforts have boosted public awareness of the group, which has resulted in greater participation by others. It's safe to say that helping children is one of my dad's passions. Before his retirement, he worked as a school counselor in his native Rhode Island, helping kids with personal, educational and career issues. He is a great dad and Grampa too!
But after three hernias and 72 years of life, it's becoming harder and harder for dad to continue his work. He doesn't go out and collect the golf balls anymore, and he has difficulty picking them up and transporting them. Luckily, others have stepped in to take his place and continue his mission. For now, he continues to sort and distribute the golf balls in any capacity he can. While his body might not always be willing, his spirit remains strong. Love ya pop!

My dad was a dreamer and an entrepreneur. He taught me the value of family and keeping an open heart even if you didn't agree with those pesky, annoying family members. To always forgive, because life can take a turn in a twinkling. My dad passed away in 1995, I know he would love my grandchildren and enjoy watching another generation struggle, accomplish, argue, forgive, stretch and reach their potential.

My father is the greatest. The best memory he gave me was my first deep sea fishing trip. Anyone who goes out on a party fishing boat all day knows it can be tedious at times. He showed me how to fish, took time to show me how to operate the rod (which is different than lake fishing), and how to real the fish in. He even had to hold me down while I realed in this enormous fish which took me about 20 minutes and my feet nearly leaving the ground (Blue fish are strong swimmers).

My Dad taught me how to throw a baseball, mow the lawn, tease my sisters, cut meat and tie a butchers knot, love my family, and expecially love my Wife. Dad adored Mom and I was lucky to learn from it. Because of Dad, I now have a beautiful family with three kids, one grandkid, and a wife that I adore and have been married for 39 years.

Imagine a combination of Cliff Clavin, Chevy Chase, and Tom Selleck. Thats my dad! The Cliff in him loves to learn and to impart his knowledge. If I don't know the answer to a question, my daughter says "I'll ask Grandpa!" Always one for an adventure the Chevy in my dad loves to travel and explore. Whenever we go to the beach he wakes up early and sets up the umbrellas and beach chairs so its all ready for us. He makes his famous waffles for the kids and without fail gets his kite stuck in the one tree near the beach or on someones roof! Growing up he took me out to a fancy dinner and see my first Opera (which was the one in the popular movie at that time - Pretty Woman) and he even went shopping with me for my first prom dress. Very thoughtful for a physicist! Now he'll call up just to talk to his grandchildren and often asks to take them out to a play or to see the orchestra. As far as the Tom Selleck in him... I've never seen him without his mustache! And my mom says the older ladies at church always ask for my father since he is such a charmer. When my sisters husband suddenly passed away he was on the first flight overseas to see her and he often went over to help her until she moved back home. He is the best man I know. I won the dad lottery!

My father has always been an important force in my life and always will. He taught me the meaning of determination, strength, and integrity, commitment, and reliability. He showed me the world! I grew up overseas thanks to this wonderful man. He showed me places no one probably ever could. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February of 2011 and it destroyed my world! He lost his battle in July, just 20 short weeks later. This is my first father's day without him. He is with me in spirit all the time and I feel his presence all around. I fight for him everyday using those amazing qualities that he taught me to spread awareness for pancreatic cancer. We started a golf tournament for him and it gives us a positive way to think about him and give back for all he did for our family. Although he is not here on earth with us, he is proud of what his family is doing for him!

Richard Powers is known to some people as a friend, a boss, a confidant, a brother... But to me, he's just Dad. As a teenager and through most of college, I didn't understand my father. He worked too much, and when he was home, he was still buried in paperwork. The only real quality alone time I had with him was when I pretended to care about the stock market, would curl up on his lap and read the prices to him from the paper. He complained the print was too small, but I'm fairly certain that wasn't true.

My father is a Vietnam veteran, but that's only a small aspect of what defines him. His actions do. He doesn't tell people this, but he received a purple heart in combat, and left it in his locker because "he didn't deserve it."

He lost his second of five children to spina bifida at a very young age.

I didn't know it until I was older, but there were so many medical bills from my brother's sickness, that my father was working to pay them off and start college funds for me and my surviving siblings. He put the four of us through college, and stipulated only one thing: Do what's right.

He supports everything we do, from my sister attending art school, to one of us becoming a volunteer EMT and Fire Fighter to my brother refusing to ever get married. A far cry from my perception of him in college, I can call him crying in the middle of the night and he's the first person I want to tell when something wonderful happens.

He's an amazing human being.

I'm one of five children, the youngest, and the only girl. I remember when I was little, my dad used to tell me the most amazing bedtime stories about Peter Rabbit. Each story was an adventure, and looking back, each story had a lesson to be learned. My dad has the biggest heart of anyone I know (even though he doesn't always show it). I remember one summer when I was 6 we went to Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster and I didn't want to ride the little kids roller coaster by myself so my dad went with me. It's probably one of the funniest things we've ever done together. My dad's my movie buddy, my advice giver, my provider, and one of my best friends. I don't know where I'd be without him, he's taught me so much about life and love and how to be the kind of person I want to be. I could never wish for a better father because I know I have the best one ever!

My dad and I shared a common dream - that someday I would be a major league baseball pitcher. While it never happened, it was not for lack of time spent practicing together. For years, my dad played catcher as I worked on my skills. Inevitably he took his fair share of hits. On one occasion, my curve ball had some extra curve on it causing my dad to catch the ball with his face instead of the glove. After cleaning up and fixing his glasses, we were back at it. Nothing would keep him of spending time with me.

My dad is an amazing man, he is also my best friend. I grew up as an only child and girl, but my dad still made time to do everything with me. He taught me how to fish, play ball, ride a bike. Took me to the mall, and came to every dance recital, and show I did with flowers and pride. Took care of me when I was sick, which was alot, I was in the hospital allot growing up. He always made time for me and let me know that I am loved and a great person. As I grew up, he was my rock for advice, he would hold no punches. As a mom now, I look back at how great he is and am in awe. He is also a Vietnam Vet who was one of the main vets in the trial against the US for Agent Orange. This was a hard thing to do, to stand up for all of his fellow vets. For fighting for what is right, and what he believed in. For teaching me to be a good person, and do the right thing, he is my hero.

My father was exceptionally cheap and a sour person in general; the lesson I learned from him is to make sure I don't become those things.

Dad is 86 years old. He is the most talented man I will ever know. There is nothing he can't fix, and he never says "no"! 27 years ago, he put his life aside for 14 months, and built my home for me in Collegeville, which I still live in today. He still takes care of the house he built for my mom and him, over 58 years ago. We lost mom over 8 years ago, and he still maintains the house like she was still there. He was given last rights when I was quite young, in a very serious plane accident. He has had throat cancer, and recently had a major stroke on the operating table. When the doctor came out to talk to me, he was shaking his head, and said he didn't have much of a chance to survive. He didn't know my dad. The state pulled his driver's license, but after therapy, and his will to survive, he passed his driving test with flying colors and drove himself to Florida with his beautiful girlfriend a few months afterward to do his one joy, fishing. I would step in front of a train for my dad, and that's the truth. LOVE YOU DAD. Diane

My father had very unique methods of interrogation. He once suspected my friends and I of enjoying adult beverages while camping behind the house. He didn’t just ask me if this was true. He asked me while trying to teach me how to drive stick . . . and this wasn't just any standard "standard" vehicle. It was a 40-year old dump truck used for farming. Needless to say, Dad got the truth that day. If only the clutch was as forgiving as he was.

Growing up, I would watch those movies where a daughter gets married and Daddy doesn't wanna let go and I remember thinking "eh, that's just in the movies", well on my wedding day 5 yrs ago, my Daddy walked me down the isle to the love of my life with all our family watching us. On that walk, which seemed like forever, down the isle, my Daddy gave me many words of wisdom along the lines of growing up, becoming a wife, etc. As we approached my VERY soon to be husband, it was time for my Daddy to give his oldest daughter away. I can honestly tell you, I felt like that daughter in the movies. My Daddy held onto me as long as he could. I could feel his arms trembling. The strongest man I have ever known, was holding me with all his might. The teary eyes of this unbreakable man was enough proof to me that I was his whole world. Never in my life have I ever felt so loved, never have I ever seen so much emotion in this man whom has even LITERALLY saved my life as a little girl. No picture could ever capture the emotions felt at that moment in our lives. Watching the video after my wedding, my Daddy's attempt to let me go only took a few seconds, but at that moment in time, it felt like a lifetime. My goal in the lives of my children is to hopefully make the same impact on them as my Daddy made on me that warm summer afternoon 5 yrs ago... I love you Daddy.... you are my hero :-)

My daddy stalked me to all the parties I snuck out to in Southern California and dragged me home if I wasn't where i said I was going. His stalking kept me off the stripper pole. Thanks Daddy!

Mydad"andre is the greatest of them all.he. gives me what every kid needs; love.

I’m Kristen Smith from Lafayette Hill and my dad is a 49 year old boy. He’s crazy, immature, and annoying, but whether I let him know it or not, he's one of my biggest role models. Being a mason and a volunteer firefighter, he's always helping other people, which inspires me. I admit, he had a weird set of parenting skills, and did things his own way, but it definitely made me the super awesome person I am today. While Cameron Smith is a crazy, childish, cheap, and somewhat tough dad, he’s my dad and I love him :)

Ingrid Auerbach doylestown pa. My dad is special person going up he always did things that mom could not figure out. He was always involved in sport with us and many other things. How could I forget the many times he fixed my car or changed the oil. He is my hero in more ways then one. I few year back he suffered a massive head injury and we almost lost him but he proved to everyone he was a fighter and not going to give up he made a full recovery. He has inspired in more ways then one. One of the major things is don't give up without a fight. He use to run and walk but since his head injury he can't do much of that anymore. That's where I picked up did my first mile run this past March next one I am going to do is Jan 1 2013. This will the best present I can give him. Love yea always dad <3. I Auerbach doylestown pa

I think I'd prefer to see the money go to victims of Dead Beats, as in a certain blog entitled, "Dead Beets".

My Dad my hero. Loving all 7 of us and showing us the meaning of father. Nurturing, teaching, showing us by example the morals and values he wants us to learn. Opening our home and our hearts to 2 great cousins who needed us when their Mom died. Dad isn’t always biological…Dad is found in one’s heart. Showing us we needed them as much as they needed us and helping us see the heart always has room for one more. Never too busy for just one more hug or pat on the back. His door is always open.

My Dad was old school. Men didn’t cry and didn’t have emotion. Growing up I never heard the words I love you. He worked 7 days a week. Not until my son was born did I hear him say I love you to anyone. Oh how proud of him I was for learning to say those words. Now that I’m older I realize my sweet Dad said I love you each day I just didn’t hear it. I should have been listening when he told me the only way he knew how. His actions were his words.

My dad is the most loving man I know. He is dedicated to his family and has been going on 40 years the 14th of this month. My dad has worked 3 jobs to support his family which included a wife, 4 kids and however many cats or dogs we would bring home to him. My dad is a strong, loving, hard working man that would do anything and everything for his family. He has taught me what a real man is and although I gave him a hard way to go for most of my life, he never gave up on me, he has done nothing but love me and show me what a real man is. They say children are the best judge in character and I believe this, just ask my 7 year old nephew and he will tell you Grandpop!!!

As I am driving in the car with my children in the backseat we drive past a cemetary and I say to the kids, "Do you know why they put gates around cemeteries?" I don't even bother waiting for them to respond before I blurt out "because people are dying to get in them!" The kids are not amused as they have heard this too many times before. I proceed to laugh for the next five minutes. I clearly remember being in the backseat of the old Caddy rolling my eyes every time I heard the joke. I don't even look in the rearview now but I know there are two sets of eyes rolling behind me. Thanks Dad for teaching me to appreciate the little things in life.

I still miss my father almost every day. He died in November, 2005. He was an amazing man who shared with me his love for life, and many other things including the importance of being involved in one's community. He taught me how to garden, and to an extent how to cook. He also had a deep love and appreciation of the arts. Growing up, he always had time for his girls. He wasn't superhuman, was just a man, but he was my father.

My dad taught me generosity and kindness. We never had very much, but my Dad went out of his way to collect toys and clothes for the homeless in our garage. Every Christmas he would ask a friend to dress as Santa, and a huge group of us would go around to shelters where the kids would sit on Santa's lap and pick a toy. Seeing those children with a smile on their face made me understand to never take for granted what I have in life, big or small. He has continued to do this every year since 1994. -Glen Mills, PA

n Wednesday, June 13, 2012 What can I say about my dad. He's everyone's best friend. He is the guy you want at every party. He is a cancer survivor. He is a heart attack survivor. He is an ambassador of fun. He lives for his family. He sings to my mother. He rolls around on the floor with my dogs. He makes an amazing bloody mary. He once shot a shark with a shotgun. His college nickname is Oscar?? He danced with me and my friends till 3am at my wedding reception. He has the biggest heart and an even bigger personality. He is constantly laughing and making others laugh. He's allergic to honey, turkey, celery and strawberries...but he'll still eat turkey and suffer through it. He works to live but does not live to work. He loves my mother more than anything. He is my sister's best friend. He was always hard on me, but I respect that and am glad he was. I am just like him. He is my best friend. I love you dad. I'm so happy that you survived your bypass last month and walked me down the aisle. You are amazing and wonderful and to my friends you are the "world's most interesting man." We all love you so much. Happy Father's day. Jess Lucente, Newtown Square PA

A nerdy engineer type, I liken my father to Kermit the Frog. He is kind, patient, a reluctant leader with a good sense of humor, strong, and supportive. If not for his guidance and example, I can’t imagine the person I would have become.

Frustrated with my post-college job hunt, I took a job that was far beneath my ability, and Dad softly told me that he was disappointed.

I resigned before I ever started that job.

That day, I learned not to sell myself short.

For that lesson and many, many others,

Thank you, Dad.

The phrase "they broke the mold after they made him" is corny, but perfectly describes my dad. There's just nobody i've met that comes close to him. He was the hardest working person i've known; tough, smart, kind, selfless, humble, and confident. I lost him when i was 26, and not a single day goes by that i don't wish i still had him around.

Chelsea Bucsek

My father is an honest, hard working man. Coming from a rough childhood, he learned that no one can do anything better than he could if he wanted to make himself as successful as possible. And that's exactly what he did: He pulled himself together, working harder than anyone around him. Eventually he ended up with 5 wonderful children, all incredibly different and talented. After finding great success within himself, he's taught all of us that no one can be better than us at the things we're best at. To be the best, you must believe you are. I don't necessarily believe that I'm the best at what I do, but I do believe in myself because of him. And I truly believe that I came from the best dad around.

My dad was my hero! He was strong and kind and noble and fair. He worked hard all of his life to provide and care for his family. He was the "TRUNK" of our tree and he sowed good branches which sprouted great leaves. He taught is the value of a good education, and that a person's good word was worth more than money. He taught us to serve and also to reap. Because of him I am self sufficient, proud, confident, and able. On this the second anniversary of his passing I reflect on his life and his impact on others and I humbly say, WELL DONE.

A Dad in a daughter's eyes is a man whom she can depend on. A man who played silly games with her while growing up. A man who was at the sidelines cheering her on at every soccer game. A man who taught her right from wrong. My Dad is all of these things and more. He is the strength and core of my family. He guided us when my sister, Sarah, his first born daughter, was murdered six years ago. That is something for which I will be forever grateful. Today my Dad is still the rock of our family and supports us in everything we do. Thank you Daddy!

Broomall, Pa

You may say that I am a traditional "Daddy's Girl". My two brothers and I have always looked up to my father with great respect,admiration & love. Beneath his tough loud exterior, there was always a teddy bear. We were never denied however we weren't deprived of all the things a child could need in a parent. He was always the one where Mom says "No" and Dad says "yes". At least in my case. My father's charisma with people is what I love so much about him. The way he is with people there has never been a person that didn't like him. I always watched in awe that he could just carry on a conversation with anyone and make a friend. That is one of the many qualities I thank him for giving me. Always showing us that the truly important things in life are all there is that matters. Those being each of us, a lovely wife, family, a roof over our heads and the bond between all. We were taught to be the riches in life and not the material things. Which we all know are great to have, but nothing can ever replace family.

My father, Robert Fenstermaker, was the most patient person I've ever known. I'll never forget the time I jumped in my Rambler, put it in gear and stepped on the gas only to fly backward instead of forward -- into the aluminum shed he had just erected! I was lucky I didn't run into him and all he did was shake his head. He was one of 12 kids who grew up on a farm and seldom raised his voice. In spite of working several jobs and serving in the great war, he found time to watch cartoons with his two girls and play with his only grandson. Wonderful man I'm glad/lucky to have had for a Dad

I was blessed to have one of the greatest dads in the world, but I lost him when I was just 21 years old. I knew I’d never be able to share some of life’s greatest moments with him because my adult life was just beginning. However, when I married my husband, I also gained a whole new family… including Denny, my father-in-law. No one will ever be able to replace my dad, but Denny is the next best thing. He walked me down the aisle when I got married, and he helps me with whatever I need. Everyone who knows him, loves him. I’m just lucky enough to be able to call him my father-in-law. I wish him the Happiest Father’s Day possible because I am so happy to have a “dad” in my life again.

Patricia Fulton Lynn
An all American, curly redhead, burly football player who later became a Vietnam Vet, an employee of a local school, then a self employed businessman, my Dad has worn many hats in his life. He was an avid outdoorsman who taught me how to fish, hunt, shoot, build, apprieciate nature and how to have a good time out in it. He taught me responsiblity, however tough it was to get through the head of a strong willed teenage girl. He is the ultimate fighter,as he was struck with every physical ailment you can think of. It would have killed most people. Liver failure requiring not one but two transplants, diabetes, heart attacks, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and most recently, kidney failure requiring dialysis. For all that he has been through, he continues to fight, the rest of us keep going and growing. He still teaches me to this day as I have been a dialysis worker for 15 years, and am now more totally understanding what my patients go through by listening to him. He will always teach us, my two young boys, and everyone who knows him how to just keep on going. Love ya Dad!

My husband and I joke that as soon as you become a dad, you gain instant "dad" knowledge. We used to say this because my dad is the smartest man I know. He came here from another country when he was 21, yet has accomplished more than I can hope to accomplish someday. Happy Father's Day to all the amazing fathers out there!

My dad, Peter Carpenter's mantra (which I've adopted) is "Carpenters never quit." I love and admire this man who taught high school for over 40 years, taught me everything I know about home renovation, encouraged a love of all Philadelphia sports teams (frustrating though they are), Broadway and big band jazz, and demonstrated the importance of living a life of generosity, kindness, compassion, and humor.

My father is the best! Besides doing a fantastic job raising 3 children, he continues to be hands on with 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He babysits, plays with them, chaperones field trips and attends sporting and school events. He is always in a happy and silly mood. He recently had to endure the most difficult experience any parent could go through-caring for his sick child every day and losing her, yet he still carries on and continues being an awesome Dad, Granddad and Great Grandfather! Oh, and did I mention, my Dad just turned 80?!!!

My father was an amazing man. He raised me as a single parent from the age of two. He worked very hard to provide a safe and nurturing home. He made sure I had the best education available even if it meant he did without. Yes times were tough but he made sure I never wanted for anything. Every Christmas he would build a remarkable model train layout for me. Every summer we would go fishing and enjoy the rides in Ocean City NJ. When the circus came to town he would make sure he went to the ticket office and got us front row seats so I had the best view. My father was a man of little words. When he did speak he did not mix words he told you what he felt and why he felt the way he did. He was an honest man and he made sure I knew what it meant to be a responsible person in life. Now I am the dad and I get to pass on what he taught me to my kids. My Dad was my best friend and when he brought me into his Freemason Lodge we became Brothers. My Dad passed away in 2005 and every day I still aim to make him proud. When my father left this world I made sure he knew that I loved him and that he will always be a HERO to me.

My dad has an insatiable love for life that inspires me endlessly. His photos hang on my walls. Almost every song I hear, I hear in his singing voice. I’ve enjoyed many Norristown sporting events by his side and will never tire of hearing about his golf game. He is a lover of words and I am proud to have the dictionary that he so often sent me and my siblings to in my home today. His love of learning inspired my career path. He continues to be my best teacher. Happy Father’s Day Dad!

I grew in a very small coal mining town with simple people with simple lives. My Dad was no exception. He went to work and came home everyday. He never drank, never hurt a fly, and played golf like it was why the sun rose and set. He isn't an affectionate man. He doesn't say what he's thinking or feeling out loud, but is he ever funny. I credit my Dad with my irreverent, off-color and knows-no-boundaries sense of humor. It took my years to understand him and cope with a lot of things, but now I'm happy to spend the rest of my life appreciating the ways in which he loved me that I never saw until now. I love you Dad, just as you are.

It’s easy to have great things to say about my Dad. He just spent a whole year taking care of me during Chemotherapy treatments for Ovarian Cancer. He has helped me and my husband, and our 3 year old daughter during all of it. He did what any Daddy would to do and he took care of his little girl, even though she is 32. Having the courage to be our smiling face every day will always mean the world to me. I promise now to be there every day for my Daddy as he now faces Prostate Cancer.

'Just do it!' was my Father's slogan far before NIKE sneaker company adopted it as theirs. My father has always viewed life as a combination of hard work and loyalty. This combination, according to Dad; should get one to any destination they desire. My Dad started dating my Mother in 5th grade (here in Phoenixville) and they have been together over 50 years. Talk about persistence and loyalty. They even graduated high school together. (He was voted 'smartest and she voted prettiest). My Dad always has a smile one his face and an ear to listen to his friends and families woes or needs. If I need help, my Dad is the one who will research and practically produce a doctorate thesis on how to solve my current problem or issue. He is equal parts smart and smiley. He grew up in Phoenixville and went on to be a graduate from University of Pennsylvania law school and then onto become a successful lawyer. His biggest success is the family he created and the fact that he is such a hands on 'Poppop' to my son. I have such respect for my father and how he treated his Mother and my Mother's parents as they grew older and into their 80's and late 90's. Never a complaint was heard from him for missing a chance to watch a game or do something more pleasurable then visiting one of them in a hospital, or at their home in an assisted living. To this day his smile never falters and for that I am extremely proud and lucky to have him healthy, hear and present this Father's Day!

I've only recently realized how special my father is. He supports me, coaches me, and inspires me. When I was 6, and my brother was 4, my parents divorced. Without hesitation, my father gained joint custody, becoming a single parent to two young children, even as he lost his job, and worked to start a new life. I took this amazing gift for granted, until I got older and realized how rare it is for divorced fathers to take on this level of responsibility. The fact that my father is a great man makes him a great dad.

I think I'd prefer to see the money go to victims of DBD, as in the blog, "Dead Beets".

As a child you just know you love your dad because he's your dad. As a teen, you learn to respect your dad because you begin to understand all the things he's done, and sometimes more importantly what he hasn't done, for you and your family. As an adult you realize that you've had your best friend and biggest fan right beside you all your life. Then you become a husband and a dad yourself. You realize how hard it can be at times but everything he's taught you with his words and his actions and all of his hard work and sacrifices have prepared you and made you the man you are today. Now you honor him and you love your wife and your children by being the best husband and dad that you can while you enjoy watching your hero become an even better pop pop.

My dad has been battling mutiple myloma a cancer of the blood plasma for 7 and 1/2 years. Just before Easter we were told he had just 4 to 6 weeks to live if he did not choose to get his third stem cell transplant after having been through 2 already along with other horrendous treatments that had not be all that successful. My dad not having graduated college but instead being a tradesmen for his career has provided for my family in whatever way he could working many hours of overtime as a telecommunications specialist. After being diagnosed with cancer 7 years ago and having to go on disablity he started working with the township and became a township supervisor. He in my opinion has made a difference in North Coventry and the surrounding area securing open space and making the area a better place for me to raise a family when the time comes. He continues to make a difference dispite his own medical battles. He spends countless hours in the cancer center and in the last 6 months has spent 4 of them easily in the hospital enduring horrible treatment. He is and always will be my hero and I hope that one day I too will have the courage that he has.

At 12, I pulled pit crew duty for Dad while he raced cars, taking tire temps and clocking laps. At 16, he taught me to drive manual transmission and change oil in "my" car. In high school, I was my dad's date to a black tie event when Mom preferred to stay in. In college, he taught me how to do my taxes and cheered my women's rugby matches while wearing his own college rugby jersey. My dad babysat his infant granddaughter for months, proudly toting her around to his car club meetings. I was shaped in so many ways by this incredible father!

I owe all I am to my Dad. It was my Dad who built me up, who made me feel invincible, and who gave me my sparkle. I thought I was beautiful, I knew I was smart, my jokes were hysterical, my flaws were insignificant and my goals obtainable. He built up my self esteem so that when mean girls and careless boys tried to take away that sparkle, I would not hand it over. He taught me my worth. He made me the woman that I am, the professional that I became and most importantly, now a great Mom. P Whelan, Collegeville PA

My dad is my hero! So many little girls say that everyday, but in my life it is very true! My father was my hero 33 years ago when he and my mother adopted me. I truly do not know what my life would be like today if they hadn't taken me as part of their family. Even after that first act of adoption, my dad has proven day in and day out that he is a true hero. He has dedicated his life to helping others as a fire fighter, fire chief, safety officer, fire investigator, and emergency management coordinator. He has taken care of many boo boos and wiped away countless tears over the years. I have enjoyed standing next to him on the fire ground and also as he walked me down the isle to my loving husband 6 years ago. I love to watch him interact with my children and can see my kids look up to him as much as I do. I thank God every day for my dad and for all that he has done for me in my life! Without his example I do not feel I would be the woman or mom that I am today. Thanks dad! I love you! Melissa Janis, Bethlehem PA

My family surprised my Dad with a 90th birthday party last Saturday. If I have a quarter of his energy when I reach half his age, I will consider myself lucky. He taught me the life is for living, that family is most important and that your kids are your legacy. I learned never trust someone who lies to you and never lie to someone who trusts you. That Philadelphia sports teams and beautiful women often will break your heart but to keep coming back. And I learned to Mummer Strut, which is exactly what we did at his party John W. Collegeville

Before I leave my comment I want who ever's reading this to know that I am not entering for the money, I'm entering to see that everyone knows how great a dad John Hall is. My dad is the best dad in the world because even though he works from 4:00 in the afternoon to 12:00 at night all the way in New York, he still finds time for me and my siblings. He still finds time to pull us out of school to go to a nice lunch, or to make it to our concerts and softball games. After riding two hours each way, everyday, six days a week, he still finds time to be the best dad ever.

My father is great, he has four kids and loves them all. He has always tried for us not to see him angry so we could remember him as a happy man. Although I'm only 14 years old and the oldest out of all four kids, my dad takes time listening to my problems or just talking about life. I really love my dad and even if I don't win the money it's great to let people know how great of a man my dad is.

What I appreciate of my father is not only his hardwork ethic or his strong values in faith and family but mainly for his transparency as a person. Growing up, he seized every opportunity as a teachable moment for me and gave me insight to what really matters in life. He used his own life to show me that money, fame, etc., were all fleeting and taught me the value of faith, kindness and love. I am still learning but I am so thankful he has taught me how to navigate this journey called life.