Today, my family is gathering our hearts and thoughts to celebrate an extraordinary milestone—the 85th birthday of a man whose life has been a beacon of love, wisdom, and inspiration. Since I am still travelling, we will all celebrate in person when I am back, but allow me to dedicate today’s blog to my father, and tell you in a few words, how much he means to us.
As a loving husband, devoted father, grand-father and great-grand-father, my father Richard is also an esteemed educator, a visionary administrator, a passionate golfer, and a lifelong learner. I am proud to say that he has enriched countless lives with his presence and purpose.
His family loved him way before we came into his life, and they speak with warmth and pride of his childhood. He is a kind brother, always looking to make others laugh, and be of service. I love how relatives light up when they see him at family functions, greeting him warmly as he shakes their hand and taps them affectionately on their shoulders, always ready with a question or an interesting fact to share with them.
The Devoted Father and Husband
As a father, he has been a pillar of strength when my brother and I have come to crossroads in our life, a source of wisdom and an endless well of love and unwavering support, providing guidance that shaped our lives and instilled values of integrity, curiosity, and kindness. His love extended beyond parenting; as a husband, he has demonstrated what it means to live married more than 60 years, a milestone few achieve as partners, with unwavering love and gentle support.
Through every challenge and triumph, he has been a constant reminder of the power of love and family. His ability to listen, to encourage, and to lead by example has been a gift that continues to inspire us every day.
An Educator and Administrator with Vision
His career as an educator and administrator has left an indelible mark on the communities he has served. It warms my heart to hear of students from those years spent in Mattawa, or Embrun, acknowledging the fond memories they hold of him during his time in their lives. With a commitment to excellence and a belief in the transformative power of education, he has inspired countless students and colleagues to strive for their best. His leadership has been characterized by compassion and innovation, creating spaces where learning flourished and people thrived.
Through his work, he has shown that education is not just a profession but a calling—a way to shape lives, build futures, and strengthen communities.
A Golfer with Passion
Beyond the classroom and the office, my father often found the golf course as his sanctuary. With each swing and stride across the greens, he has exemplified the patience, precision, and persistence that the game demands. But more than the sport itself and being out in the open air, I believe it has been the camaraderie, the laughter, and the moments shared with friends that have brought him the greatest joy.
A Life Enriched by Music and Humanities
His love for music and the humanities has been a cornerstone of his life, enriching his soul and connecting him to the broader human experience. Whether humming a melody, or engaging in deep conversations about human behaviour and philosophy, he has always found joy in the beauty of human creativity.
This passion has also been a gift to those around him, sparking meaningful discussions, inspiring curiosity, and reminding us all of the importance of nurturing our inner lives.
“The great thing about getting older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been.” — Madeleine L’Engle
A Lifelong Learner
Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of my father’s life has been his relentless pursuit of growth. Even at 85, his commitment to ongoing self-development serves as a testament to his belief that life is a journey of learning and discovery. Whether exploring new ideas, honing a skill, or reflecting on life’s deeper questions, he continues to embody the spirit of curiosity and resilience.
Our Gratitude and Celebration
As we celebrate 85 years of a life so richly lived, we express our profound gratitude for all that he has given us. His love, wisdom, and example have shaped not only the lives of those closest to him but also the many who have had the privilege of knowing him.
Thank you, Dad, for your endless love, your boundless curiosity, and your unwavering commitment to being the best version of yourself. You remind us daily of what it means to live a life of purpose, joy, and integrity.
Here’s to you—our father, grand-father, husband, uncle, brother, teacher, leader, and friend. May this year be as full of love, laughter, and discovery as the 85 before it. Happy birthday Dad!
