On this day in 1932, the greatest man I have ever known was was born.

[Siwsan]

2. Your words reflect my feelings about my father

He came from very humble beginnings. In high school he was a star football player. He joined the Marines as soon as he graduated, right at the end of WWII. Used the GI bill to go to Michigan State, where he also played football. Then on to a teaching/coaching career where he had 2 championship seasons. He's still a bit of a legend in the town where he coached. The field is named for him.

For many years he didn't earn a lot of money but he did everything he could for us. During the Summers he worked 3rd shift security at one of the local GM auto plants.

He instilled in us a love of reading, a love of travel (cross country camping trips) and a love of history. When I was in a school play he would attend the dress rehearsal AND all performances, dragging my mom along. (She couldn't understand why I needed to be 'in the spotlight'.)

When I joined the Navy he teased me about being a 'Swabby' but he came to my basic training graduation and was as proud as he could be. He also came to visit me when I was stationed in Iceland. After I left the Navy, we'd spend lots of time sipping on Manhattans and talking about our military experiences. We had such a tight bond.

He was born February 24, 1928 and died August 20, 1999. I think of him and miss him every single day.

We were both very lucky to have such amazing fathers. So many aren't.