My dad will turn 90 soon. We've been planning a party to celebrate this momentous occasion, and as I've prepared I've found myself thinking about his long life.
There's lots to know and celebrate about dad, and everyone who knows him likely has many of the same stories as well as some unique tales from their perspective.
Dad was born in 1930. He was the third of five children for his mom of Irish lineage and dad of Polish lineage. His dad was a postman and his mom was a stay at home mom. As a young boy he lived on the first floor of a three decker in the Grafton Street neighborhood of Worcester. I lived in the same house for my first six years. I loved the big yard and friendly neighborhood.
I remember a few of dad's early stories such as their trips in their first car to Nantasket Beach, driving down Route 20 and stopping at the Coach Grill for lunch, running around the neighborhood during Worcester's 1938 hurricane, and working at a local farm.
Dad wore knickers to school during grade school. He went to Worcester Public Schools through 12th grade and then joined the United States Coast Guard. At 14, he began working part-time for his Uncle Joe at an electrical supply store, and with the exception of the three-four years he spent in the Coast Guard, he worked at that store until his mid to late seventies. Dad took pride in his work helping electricians purchase the just right supplies for the jobs they had. In fact, just today, he told me with sadness that many of those electricians had passed away.
Dad had the chance to go to Worcester Polytechnic Institute, but as a young man in love who was devoted to his uncle at the time, he decided to continue working at the store. Dad met mom at dance at The Elks in Worcester, and after that at a card party in downtown Worcester. My mom was playing cards with her sorority when Dad and his friends arrived. Mom remembers him saying that he "got one" on his way out the door, and they mostly dated from that time on marrying about four years later.
Mom and dad lived in the three decker during their early years of marriage. Mom worked at the Worcester Court House, a job she loved while dad worked at the store. They desperately wanted a baby for many years and even were all set to adopt when they finally got pregnant and had their first child, me. Five children were born after that, and eventually my parents bought their own house and moved to the northern section of Worcester.
Our childhood life took on a happy routine. Dad went off to work every morning and returned for dinner around 5:30 p.m. Mom cooked a great dinner every night. We all had the same seats at the table in the kitchen and enjoyed many wonderful home cooked meals. In my early years, my dad worked for a half day every Saturday, and then came home to do lots of chores. Sundays were set aside for wonderful day trips to mainly natural places at nearby parks, lakes, beaches, mountains, and forests. Holidays were spent celebrating with our 50-plus cousins and many, many aunts, uncles, and grandparents. We had wonderful times together.
As we got older, dad continued his interest in the outdoors and athleticism. We hiked mountains, went on bike trips, and explored the beautiful urban and rural areas of New England. We also spent time skating on local ponds, playing hockey, and for some of us, participating in local road races. We had an active childhood in a nice neighborhood.
Dad taught CCD, volunteered to help out at church, and was involved in local politics. He faithfully read the newspaper and researched topics he was interested in at the local library. He encouraged all of us to go to college and supported us with wonderful high school and college educations. Later he welcomed our loved ones including spouses, partners, friends, and eventually many grandchildren. Dad has always loved being with family members above all and has celebrated countless joyful events with us over the years.
Dad has faced the few sad events in his life with strength and faith. Losing his son, and our brother Paul, has been one of the saddest events, and he has also endured losing many good friends and other family members. Yet, his strength and good will demonstrates him to be a man who embraces the joy of life rather than get caught up with the sadness--even at 90, that's exemplified in his love for walking, playing golf, watching sports games, political discussions, reading the newspaper, and attending many celebrations.
My dad and I have sparred from time to time mostly when he's worked to push me to be better and do more for others and for myself. Dad wants the best for all of us and lets us know that. He's made me a stronger and better person over time. I'm really looking forward to celebrating Dad's 90th--he's been a loving mentor and guide for all of us, and it will be a joy to celebrate the long life he's lived. Happy Birthday Dad!