Dear Dad,
Happy 105th Birthday.
It’s hard to find words big enough for a milestone like this. 105 years ago, you started out on a journey of life, love, work, faith, and quiet strength. As I sit down to write you this letter, I can’t help but think about everything you witnessed throughout your lifetime.
Since your passing in 2018, the world has changed in so many ways. You nailed it by living in the best of times and leaving just before things started to go south. Through your 95 1/2 years on this earth, your character remained steady and constant.
You were just a little boy when you started driving a tractor for your father, not out of privilege or comfort, but out of necessity and grit. The depression hit and there were no shortcuts, handouts, or easy paths, Just long days, hard work, and a determination that somehow became part of your bones. Growing up, times were tough, but you always had enough love, responsibility, and backbone to build the kind of life others could lean on.
And we did lean on you, Dad. All of us. You raised five daughters with caring hands and a loving heart. Teaching by example, you showed us how to work, endure, and stay kind in a world that isn’t always so. As we grew, I cannot remember a single curse word coming from your mouth, and yet your presence commanded more respect than a hundred loud voices ever could.
Thank you for showing my boys how a God-fearing man lives his best life. You were a wonderful example of son, father-in-law, brother-in-law, brother, husband, and Dad. Teaching them how to work on the family farm, you found ways to make chores fun. Whether collecting aluminum cans along a dusty road or selling baby rabbits, you helped them earn pocket money, when you could have easily given them $20 and told them to go watch TV.
You lived your grace-filled life quietly, humbly, and with deep, unwavering integrity. You showed us that being a good man doesn’t require noise or drama but requires consistency, patience, and the courage to do what’s right, even when no one is watching. That was one thing we could always count on. You always chose to do the right thing.
The world today is a far cry from the one into which you were born. Cars have changed, technology has invaded farming, and even the way we talk to each other has changed. Thank goodness your values remained steady throughout your life. In a huge way, your lessons have been my North Star when I lost my way.
So here on earth, I’m celebrating more than just your years. I honor your legacy and the Christian life you lived, shaping lives with quiet dignity while loving us freely without conditions or complaint.
Happy birthday, Dad. I hope heaven is absolutely fabulous with lots of roses to water and fruit to pick and share. Save some for me when I get there. I miss you. Thank you for showing us what it means to live a full and wonderful life.
With all my love,
You Daughter,
Joy
