These five men shaped my life in unique ways, each serving as my father or a father figure. Though they have all passed on, their memory and the love they gave me will always remain in my heart.
My Dad was an incredibly talented musician who shared his passion for music with me. Deeply devoted to our community, he played the organ at both the Congregational Church and the Catholic Church in North Falmouth.
He spent many years as the Music Director at Highfield Theater and also served as a summer police officer in our town. At local park cookouts, Dad was always the burger meister! Though he’s been gone for a long time, I often think of him and miss his wry sense of humor.
My Uncle George was like a father to me, teaching me how to swim, dive, bowl, hike, play cards, and most importantly, how to love unconditionally.
When I was around 5 years old, I cut my toe badly at Surf Drive Beach, and he carried me all the way home before helping Mom drive me to the doctor’s office for stitches. He wasn’t a loud man, but in his quiet, loving way, I always knew I was one of his special kids.
Uncle George and I were at my wedding with Jack.
When Jack and I got married, Uncle George walked me down the aisle. I miss that sweet, loving, wonderful man.
Uncle Bob was always fun to be around, though he expected me to act like a little adult. I didn’t mind—I adored him and just wanted to enjoy quiet moments together.
I spent a lot of time with him and his wife, Aunt Cynthia. I remember riding on his boat, visiting their home in Quincy, and going to museums together. I also recall my uncle once having a monkey—it was adorable, but it didn’t stick around for long.
My Papa Fred was another quiet man. He was quite old when I lived with him and Grandma, but he showed me something important.
Real love between a man and a woman is something special. I remember watching Papa and Grandma sitting on the sofa, enjoying Lawrence Welk together. Papa would gently hold Grandma’s feet in his lap, stroking them with such care. He adored her his whole life, and when she passed, he lost the will to go on, following her just eight months later.
My Papa Sam, my Dad’s Dad. I didn’t know him as well, but I remember him taking me to the Prudential Building in the summer to listen to the Barbershop Quartets sing.
I remember sitting on his lap and listening to him sing along. He had such a beautiful voice.
These 5 men helped to shape the woman I grew up to become. Each is special in their own way, and now, each is greatly missed.
Happy Father’s Day! I remember you all with love and many memories that make me smile!
