He rocked you to sleep at night, he threatened every boy that came into your life (or gave you age-old advice on girls), he took you fishing, he let you have cake for breakfast -don't tell your mother, he hugged you when you needed it, scolded you when you deserved it, and loved you unconditionally...even during the awkward teenage phase. He's your dad.
We invited our readers to submit a bit about why their dads, husbands, grandfathers, or any other father in their lives is great. Take a look below at what readers had to say and have a great Father's Day!
"I'm pretty lucky. I have three "dads". My Grandfather who has taught me everything from driving to how to be amazing dad, grandfather and great grandfather. My Dad who no matter how many miles separate us we are always connected. And my Step-Dad Tony who has treated me like the daughter he never had."- Deanna Grimes
"I am happy to share with everyone a little bit about why my dad is incredible. I can easily say that he is the strongest, smartest, and most loving man in my life. He was the 'strict mean guy' when I was growing up (or so I thought at the age of 15) and an amazing friend and mentor after I grew up and became independent. My father is someone I can count for guidance and honesty. He and my mother have raised a strong family of fantastic people and I am so thankful for them both. People often say that I am a lot like my dad. That makes me a very proud daughter. There is no one else I would rather be like than him." -Jenny Craig-Brown
"My dad is great because he's always there for me, whether we're just hanging out and chatting about my new phone or the latest TV show I'm hooked on, or when I need advice on something big going on in my life. I can always count on him to listen and give me feedback from a logical perspective. He and my mom are both very caring and enthusiastic for their kids, and I'm really excited to celebrate Father's Day with them!" -Maureen Davey
"My father and I have always had a special bond. I have him to thank for providing me the means and motivation to strive to be the best I can be and follow my passion in the world of journalism. He kept me on track during difficult times when I felt like I wanted to pursue something else. He is also the one who first got me interested in sports, another one of my true passions. If not for him, I would never have taken the time to memorize the winners of every World Series, Super Bowl and NBA Finals throughout history. Every year in November, the two of us have a tradition to visit Indianapolis for a Colts game. We have done this every year since 1997, which has provided us countless moments we will remember forever. When Peyton Manning broke the single season touchdown record in 2004, I was there because of Dad. In 2009, when the Colts pulled off a miracle comeback to beat the archrival New England Patriots in an NFL Classic, I was there because of Dad. Thanks for all these great moments and being with me as I work on my other life goals of visiting every baseball stadium and seeing every state in the country." -Tim Moran
"I have two dads to talk about! My dad is pretty awesome. He took on me and my older sister when he married my mom in '97. He has always been around when we needed him to offer advice or to threaten the young men that came into our lives (as is a father's prerogative), and he's so smart it's scary. A Chicago man, he came into our hearts with his thick accent and love of Da Bears and he's been there ever since. He's a great dad to all six of his kids and is always checking in to see how we're faring. Next up is my grandpa. He's a wonderful man with a huge amount of love for his family. The family chef, my grandpa lives for family gatherings where he can create all sorts of dishes for us to enjoy. He's smart, funny, and he's an excellent example of what a father and husband should be; as is my dad." -
Caitlin Vanlaningham
"I have to say my husband Dan Griffin is one of the most amazing Husband's & Father's ever. On June 2, 2014 he donated one of his kidney's to me. He has given the gift of "More". He has given us more time together, given more time with my son, he has given more health & he has given more life. All Father's give of themselves, but this gift is way above & beyond. He has given one of the greatest gifts one person can give to another & can never be thanked enough for...Forever Grateful." -Karen Griffin.
Shout out to my Dad, Scott Brown! He is the most generous, selfless dad out there. With hard word, he ran a successful Snap-On Tool business and was able to put 5 of us through college without saddling us with student loans. He now runs a successful coffee shop and restaurant named Phil-Bs and gives the town and our family a much needed meeting place where everybody really does know your name!
He taught me how to mow a lawn, change a tire, drive (3 on the tree) stick shift, fend for myself, be a problem solver, and to never be the victim. He tried to teach me to always be early for everything (although I still struggle with this life skill.)
He has turned into an amazing Grandfather and I feel so blessed to have him in our lives.
Have I also mentioned that every Memorial Day, he picks up as many grandchildren as he can possibly fit in his car and takes them on a multiple-day adventure?
If ever a Dad deserved a shoutout, it would be A. Scott Brown. I'm sharing a letter that I found where he had correspondence with an American child during his years fighting in The Vietnam War. He was, and still is, the most optimistic person I know.
Sincerely,
A proud daughter,
Cathy Brown
Happy Father's Day to the man who gave me laughter, wit,the love for travel, how to work hard, how to enjoy, and a love for people! He literally would give someone the shirt off his own back! You have touched so many lives Roger Newman. I love you everyday!
Julie Dalton
Happy Father's Day dad! To the best role model, mentor, and father in the world. Hope you have a great day!
-Ryan Wright