Walking out the door to get in my car, my dad did not get up from his chair to say goodbye. I gave him a hug and kiss and told him, “I love you”.

The car was packed that warm September day as I was checking off the list of items I would need for my dorm room. I was excited about going away to college but apprehensive about leaving my family.

I was thankful Dad did not follow me to the car and that I did not see his tears because I might have changed my mind. That moment of watching me leave for college was almost as difficult for him as walking me down the aisle the day I got married.

Precious memories of my growing up years with Dad remind me of the life lessons he taught me:

Love your family. My dad loved his family: mom, my sister, brother and me. As a blue collar employee, he worked hard to support our family and spend time on vacations with us each year.

Believe in yourself. Dad gave me confidence that I could do anything I set my mind to achieve. He demonstrated faith in my abilities and challenged me to be my best.

Value education. As difficult as it was for him to let me leave for college, he was the reason I went. He always encouraged me to get a degree, even though he had left college to join the military.

Be honest. My parents would not tolerate deceitfulness and dad exhibited honor in business and family relationships.

Live your faith. Although my dad worked shift work and was unable to attend church every Sunday, he and mom agreed that she would take us. He would frequently play the piano and sing his favorite hymns when he was home from work.

Be responsible for yourself. Dad believed every person should be responsible for supporting himself. Even when his union was on strike, he worked other jobs to support his family.

Be committed to family. Life was not always easy for my parents but their commitment to their children kept them together until my dad died prematurely at age 52.

Being a dad is the most important job a man can achieve. He influences the next generation of men and women through his example of love, commitment and teaching. Even though he has been gone for 31 years, my dad’s legacy lives on through me and my children.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads who are building a legacy with your children. Always know how important you are to your children and that your influence carries on to future generations.