My Dad always encouraged me, proudly carried my trophies, and never acted judgmentally.

He was reliable, always there for me when I needed to talk to someone.

He was humble and open to diversity of culture and experience, yet proud of his German –Austrian-Czech heritage. So am I.

He worked very hard as a civil servant, freezing his ass off in Milwaukee Winters to keep the water system functioning for the metro area.

He was a Cool Cat who loved jazz, first-class horses, Great Lakes’ road trips, old-fashioned quality flicks, drinking steins and chess games requiring mental finesse.

He appreciated a good, solid woman for companionship, for grounding and for all the other unspeakable feminine traits which men long for and feel incomplete without… in a superior spouse who served him for decades in a manner unmatched by most.

He was handsome and, when I think about it, always offered good advice I was unable to comprehend at the time or to enact due to circumstances.

He liked bringing people together at meals, realizing the importance of convergence and sharing that lasts in one’s soul and belly beyond the hands of time. And he really liked weekend brunch omelettes.

He did not complain like I do, he just did not like maddening crowds and rude people, same as me.

I will miss my Dad, but know he is doing somersaults in Heaven and I will meet him again soon enough; we all have our time for meeting and separating…

He was honest.

My Dad pretty much did his best, and I like and love him! Regardless of DNA, I would choose him as a friend.