Celebrating fathers

Unless you have a remarkable memory, the only way to be sure that your

parents idolized you when you were a baby is to watch home movies or

videos that capture moments too distant to be recalled. I have that proof

-- moving pictures of my dad making a fool of himself as he tries to get

me to perform for the camera.

In these images, recorded in the yard of our house near Lions Park in

Costa Mesa more than four decades ago, my dad is a tall, skinny guy with

a pompadour, and I’m a toddler with very chubby legs. It’s clear that he

adored me, but I can’t remember what that felt like back then. I have,

however, come close to recovering those memories as a result of a

miraculous gift that my dad, Don Angel, and his wife, Joanne, gave our

family nearly 16 months ago.

On March 1, 2001, Don and Joanne rushed to Arizona to participate in

the birth of Robert Jon Angel, their adopted son. My dad -- who retired

after spending more than 30 years writing editorials for the Los Angeles

Times’ Orange County Edition -- now devotes much of his time to my

brother Bobby. It can’t be easy for someone with four grown children and

six grandchildren to become a parent again, but my dad is as deeply

involved in loving and raising his fifth child as any father could be.

Dad’s face lights up whenever Bobby flashes a smile or finds a new way to

demonstrate how brilliant he is, and I know this is how my dad must have

looked at me when I was Bobby’s age. Thank you, little brother, for

showing me the dad I was too young to know. And thank you, dad, for all

the love you give so generously to all of your children -- and

grandchildren. Happy Father’s Day.

Sherry Angel

If I tell you about my hero, my dad, I’m sharing with you a hero’s

life that belongs to all of us. He did, as so many dads did in 1942,

enlist to fight and protect his country. He volunteered to be one of the

first Marine fighter pilots to fly off a Navy carrier in World WarII.

Among his many missions, his Corsair was in the first wave of fighters at

Iwo Jima. He was called back again in Korea and flew the most missions,

134, of any pilot in the war. At the end of his military flying career,

his service to his country could also have ended, but in 1962 he was

hired to teach, in a newly created department at USC, the science of

aviation safety and prevention.

For the next 25 years he went on to save countless more lives by

teaching this science to every branch of the military, as well as the

private sector in the country and throughout the world. You see, he is

not just my dad, my hero, he is a hero for all of us. His entire life has

been spent defending and saving lives. I hope you will share with me in

honoring one of “our” heroes this Father’s Day, my dad, Lt. Col. George

“Skee” Parker.

Roxann Parker

DORK BY AFFILIATION

Our daddy went to dork school,

He was No. 1 in his class.

He is stuffed with dorky sayings

And filled with dorky sass.

Our dad can groove a dorky dance,

And sing a dorky song;

The problem is, he’s lots of fun,

So we dance and sing along.

Some say our dad’s a model dork;

Occasionally, we’re one of them.

Since we were dropped here by the stork,

We guess we can’t make fun of him.

Magdalena and Celinda Sandoval

My daddy, Todd Green, is the greatest. He makes me giggle by rubbing

his head into my belly and turning me upside down. He’s the only person

I’ll let put me to bed without a fuss. He makes up songs to sing to me,

like the following (sung to James Taylor’s “Rock-a-Bye Sweet Baby

James”): “There is a young Doodle, he lives in Sancerre. His puppy and

his kitty are his only companions. He sleeps in his crib and he plays in

the living room, waiting for someone, his diaper to change....” I love my

daddy very much.

Asher Green, 10 months

Friend, best friend, best man, boyfriend, fiance, husband, son....

although I have assumed many titles and positions in other people’s

lives, never has anything been more powerful and awesome than my newest

role as dad.

The room was painted, the crib was assembled, the diapers bought, and

I thought I was ready. How hard could it really be? After all, they can

only do a few things: eat, sleep, poop and cry. Didn’t sound so hard...

then.

It did not take long for me to realize that, indeed, all they do is

eat, sleep, poop and cry, but the kicker is they do it continuously (and

often simultaneously)!! My wife will not let me forget the second night

of my son’s life when after feeding, burping, changing and swaddling him,

he continued to cry. I leaned over the bassinette and said, “OK, you have

got to learn that this cannot keep happening!” With my patience drawn out

as far as it had ever been, it occurred to me that being a dad was more

than teaching my son how to throw a baseball or make a lay-up. Being a

dad was sure not as cute as it sounded nine months ago when the two pink

lines appeared!

Soon after my son’s recent birth, my father, with the utmost pride,

put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Now you know.” Here we were,

having a moment acknowledging that I was to now assume the same role as

he had for me. As tears began to well up in my eyes, he began laughing

hysterically. “Now you know!” he repeated. It became clear that although

he meant his words sincerely, he also knew what was in store for me.

Indeed, it has only been a month, but I appreciate my dad more and

more each day. He earned his title as my dad by always being there for me

and never letting me down. To this day he is my No. 1 fan, and I am his!

As I hold the next generation in my arms, I can only hope to earn the

same amount of love and respect from my son as I have for my own father.

Happy Father’s Day, dad. I love you.

Ethan Goldstein

My daddy, Ed Mazzarella, is great because he plays Barbies with me,

and he lets me play guitar with him. He also lets me help him make

“chicken-on-the bone.” He loves me and mommy, and he has the best smiles,

hugs and kisses!

I love you, daddy!

Bronwyn Perry Mazzarella, 2 1/2

Dear daddy,

It’s going to be the best Father’s Day breakfast ever!

We love you because you do nice things for other people and for our

family... and take us for hikes in the Back Bay and to the beach... and

you tickle us too!

We love you and that’s it!

Riley, 5, and Mackenzie Gaddis, 5

Father’s Day to me means that I get to spend time with the man I

respect most in this world. I’ve learned so much from you over the years.

Just wanted to say how much I love you and wish you a Happy Father’s Day.

Michael Susson

Honest, caring.Golf, football, 76’ers.

Funny, generous, motivated, intelligent.

Travel, read, exercise, concerts, laugh.

Passionate, thoughtful, dedicated.

Loving, respectful, involved.

My father, my hero, my friend forever.

Andrea Susson

Our dad, Bill Von der Ahe is great because he loves us.

Stephen, 4, and Christopher Von der Ahe , 7

Our daddy is great because he always does fun stuff with us and helps

us when we need it. He is the greatest daddy in the whole world!!

Tyler, 7 and Stephanie McPhillips, 5

Our daddy, Cort Pouch, is great because we do fun things together.

Delaney and Jules Pouch

Our dad, Richard Lane, is the best.

He always shows us how to do things the “right” way.

He never tells us we did things the “wrong” way.

Dave and Steve Lane

The greatest dad

Children need their fathers,

For many, many things:

Like helping with homework, until the morning rings.

For being the great teacher we listen to each night.

He tutors, teaches and lectures,

We know he’s always right!

He’s a father of great conviction, honor and strength.

His virtues are righteous, and of considerable length.

He’s a far greater dad than any we know;

He’s our father, our mentor, our friend and our hero.

We love you, daddy!

Nicholas, Katherine and Alexa Ossipoff

No matter how busy our dad, Mark Frazier, is working to support us, he

always finds time to be there for the important things like our sports

games, school events, fun family trips and when we aren’t feeling well.

He always encourages us to be the best that we can be by his words and

his example.

Nick, Ben and Grant Frazier

My daddy is special

Sometimes we play with our dogs and cousins all day. We swing at the

park. We build sandcastles. We even sail to the Pirate Beach!

Sometimes we stay home. We climb trees, color, read, cook pasta, play

piano and whistle. We hike in Catalina. We go to Rainbow Kids, church,

school and even to Dr. Yu’s.

Sometimes we lie on the grass and look up at our tree’s leaves and the

clouds. We laugh, use our imaginations, tell stories and have picnics. My

dad hugs me. My dad loves me, and I love him!!!

Alena Arrigo, 5

My dad, Donald Gregg, is so great because he is a patient teacher.

From windsurfing and sailing to riding a bike and teaching four teenagers

to drive a stick shift, he has been an incredible coach. He is slow to

anger and eager to explain even the simplest task. While he is a

wonderful coach, he is also my No. 1 fan. Whether through sports or

academics, he has provided me with the encouragement and support I needed

to believe in myself. He has traveled thousands of miles to watch me play

sports in college. He has the ability to know when to coach, when to

cheer and most importantly when to listen. But most of all my dad is so

great because since we were infants, he has let us eat ice cream before

dinner, even in restaurants. I am so proud of my father. His character

continues to challenge me to become more like him -- a man of faith who

works hard and loves his wife and children. A man who knows how important

life is -- important enough to eat dessert first.

Katherine Gregg

My dad, Charlie, is magnificent. He does countless amounts of things

with my sister and me, too many to name, but here are a few. My dad runs

his own company, and he is busy most of the time but he still makes room

out of his schedule to spend all his extra time with my sister and me. On

the weekends, we go everywhere together. We usually go on bike rides, to

the Fun Zone and always out to lunch. My sister Gabrielle says “I love it

when he takes us out to Chuck E. Cheese’s even on school nights.”

When I was younger, I admired my dad as much as I do now. He was the

one to teach me how to swim, he was the one to teach me how to ride a

bike without training wheels and he will always be the one to make me

feel safe in all situations. He is the best dad in the world and my

sister and I are very proud he is ours.

Natalie and Gabrielle Durnian

I look up to my dad because he is always there for me. His name is Jim

Stoneman. He has a loving wife named Janet. I love my dad.

His personality is usually very good. He always helps me when I’m

having trouble with something. Instead of telling me the answer, he just

tells me how to figure it out. My dad is friendly to others and smart.

Also he is funny.

I like my dad a lot because he is loving and understanding. My dad

teaches me new things every day. He is very patient with my sister and me

and he listens to what I have to say. Before he leaves for work or before

he goes anywhere he always says goodbye and that he loves me. He is very

helpful and caring.

My dad is a very good artist. When my dad was younger he designed

shirts and sold them all around New Zealand. My dad is good at painting

and drawing. Another hobby of his is playing tennis. My mom plays with

him. Unlike other dads he is a traveler. He has been to Fiji, Bora Bora,

New Zealand, Tahiti and many other islands.

My dad has many accomplishments. First he got married to my mom and

raised her two kids. Then he and my mom had my sister. He also started

his own business.

This is why I love my dad. He loves his family and friends. I wouldn’t

trade him for the world.

Jamie Stoneman

Our dad is the greatest of all because he helped bring us into the

world. His name is Louis Wayne Benjamin Goff. My name is Tabitha and I

have two sisters, Tiara and Trinity. My dad works extra hard so my mom

can stay home and take care of us. When my dad comes home from work, he

always plays with my sisters and I. We play ball, wrestling, coloring and

we dance.

Last week Dad got to chose the restaurant for lunch after church and

he chose Chuck E. Cheese’s. He is always doing really great things like

that for our whole family. He loves to have fun and that is why our dad

is the greatest.

The Goff Girls

There are many qualities about my dad, Tim Starn, that make him great.

One thing about my dad that makes him so great is he thinks of other

people before himself. My sister and I love it when he spoils us. He is

always very loving and caring to everyone. He is a great teacher and a

Dad that can be counted on. Best of all he is our Dad and we love him

very much.

Lindsey, 13, and Brittanie Starn, 15

“None of you can ever be proud enough of being the child of such a

father who has not his equal in this world -- so great, so good, so

faultless. Try, all of you, to follow his footsteps and don’t be

discouraged, for to be really, in everything, like him, none of you, I am

sure, will ever be. Try, therefore, to be like him in some points, and

you will have acquired a great deal.” -- Queen Victoria of England.

Happy Father’s Day to our dad and grandfather, Dale Snyder. In our

hearts, you are of royal measure.

The Snyder Family

I think my dad, Jim Rafferty, is the greatest. My brother Neal and I

are so lucky to have him for our dad. He works hard everyday so we can

have a wonderful home and lots of extra stuff. My dad helps me learn my

vocabulary words and practice my spelling for school. On Sunday mornings

we get to go out together, just me and him. I wish all kids could have

such a cool dad like mine.

Serena Rafferty, 11

We want to salute our dad because he sacrifices his time to coach both

of us in basketball. He pays a lot of money to give us a good education.

With my dad, his wife and kids come first. We love you.

Will, 12 and Conner Kelly, 8

This is about our dad, Don Insley:

Daddy, You are loved by so many people for so many reasons. Here are

the top 10 reasons we love you:

10. Adventures in our inflatable boat on the bay.

9. Always thinking of ways for us to earn our allowance.

8. Ready to go on vacations at the drop of a hat.

7. Planning great picnics.

6. Taco Bell breakfasts on Friday before school.

5. Introducing us to the love of camping.

4. Building us a tree house.

3. Videotaping endless hockey and soccer games.

2. Chauffeuring our friends and us around everywhere.

And No. 1

1. Helping to make us a tight family.

We love you, Dad.

Collin and Emily Insley

I have the best dad in the world because we play cars, hit golf balls

and go swimming together. I just love him so much.

Charlie, 2 and Ella Jacobs, 4 months

When I wake up in the morning,, my daddy comes into my room and starts

me off with a huge smile. Even after a long day at work, my daddy still

loves a great game of Monopoly. My daddy cold never be better than the is

right now. Going to an Angels game or getting lost on vacations is the

part of my daddy that I truly love. He’s been my daddy for so long and

that’s probably why he shares, with me, so much love.

I have found so many great ways to describe my daddy to other people

just so that they can see how lucky I am. He makes me smile when I am

sad. He gives me presents even when my attitude is a little bit bad. He

is my everything, and boy am I glad that he is my dad. Happy Father’s

Day. You earned it.

Brittany Paul

My daddy was the first person I saw. He spent an hour just holding and

looking at me. When mum fell asleep, he came with me to the nursery to

watch me being bathed and measured. He was very tired, as he had been up

all night, but he managed to keep his eyes on me.

Even though he has a busy law practice to run and has to get up early

in the mornings, my dad still comes to get me, comfort me and change me

in the night. My mummy says he’s an angel, I know that he’s the best

daddy in the world.

Bramley John Parsa

My dad is giving, loving and caring. But these are just a few of the

many wonderful qualities of my father, Ron Perry. I love my dad because

he is always there for me when I’m upset. This shows me how much he loves

me. I know he’ll always be there. When I need advice, he advises. When I

need help, he counsels. Because of these qualities and many more, Dad is

so lovable.

Megan Perry, 14

Our dad, Jim Wood, Jr., has been blessed with double the joys of

fatherhood this year with the December arrival of his twin daughters,

Cate and Alexa. His boys, Trey (6) and Tyler (4), are now sharing their

daddy with two more. Luckily, their dad has what it takes to keep up with

them all. He has been busy feeding, changing, holding, rocking and cooing

with his babies. Along with that, he has been fishing, hiking, swimming,

biking, bathing, reading, fixing toys and playing endless games or sports

with his sons. With sleepy eyes and a smile, Jim refers to his recently

“super-sized” family as a “six-pack’.

Thanks for all you do for our family. We appreciated all of your

morning snuggles, Indian stories at bedtime, wiggle dances and the

constant supply of sippy cups with milk. You are always on the top of our

list of “happy things”. We love you everyday in many ways.

Trey, Tyler, Cate, Alexa and Mommy Wood

My dad is the best. Why? There aren’t too many men that would take on

the responsibility of others. He guided myself and my brother the best he

knew how. Times weren’t always “wonderful” but we had what we needed. He

instilled values, such as: take care of your mom because no matter what

happens she’ll always be there, school, and hard work, but most of all,

believe in God because without him you have nothing. So now I’m grown, in

the Navy. I go away with a heavy heart but I know he’s proud and I have

his blessing. I’m living his dream to travel. I owe him much more than

stories and pictures of where I’ve been. Happy Fathers Day Pops. Love

you, and I’ll be right back.

Anthony Rubi

Our dad is the greatest dad ever! He is generous, nonjudgemental, kind

and has a huge heart. Our dad opens our home to anyone and feeds

everyone. Sundays can be up to 30 or 40 people, my dad doing all of the

cooking and loving every minute. He gives great advice and is a wonderful

listener, trying to help whenever possible. He even wrote a book “Charity

is a Contact Sport” and is riding his Harley across America Sept. 2

through Sept. 11 for the victime, New York fire and police departments,

and the military. Always on an adventure and never a boring minute in our

home. If you have a motorcycle, check out America Ride.Com 2002 for a fun

adventure with our dad Mitch.

Kaylen and Reed Morrison

Our salute to our daddy!

Oh daddy, you’re fine!

You read us our nighttime stories and get us to bed by nine!

Oh daddy, You do it all!

You take care of us and teach us and still find time to play ball!

Oh daddy, is there anything you can’t do?

We are so proud to be part of your “crew!”

Oh Daddy, we hope you like our way,

Of saying that we love you and Happy Father’s Day!!

Alex, Zachary and Josh Morrison

We love our dad. He is a father who is always ready for non-stop

action and adventure. Last month, he spontaneously became a stowaway on

the Boy Scout sailing ship The Argus. He is so high energy and ready for

fun that he will take us to the beach with our friends, boogie board for

five hours, go to the pool, have a hot dog barbecue for our friends,

shoot hoops and organize a sleep-over all in the same day! He likes

excitement so much that he built us a 75-foot zip line, 15 feet off the

ground in our backyard.

Our dad also has a serious side. He will work hard to take a touchy

situation and make it so that everyone is happy even though sacrifices

may need to be made. He is a walking encyclopedia about mathematics and

physics. He helps us understand these concepts and expects us to put in

the effort to do a good job. He is a positive and understanding

basketball coach for his son and daughter, leading a team to the division

championship. Hard work and fun is what our dad is all about. He is

willing to do anything for his kids and we appreciate that.

The Selby family: Paige, Colfax and Mom

My dad is great because he is thoughtful, caring and fun. He has a

great sense of humor. He always makes us laugh. He takes us on fun dates,

too.

My dad likes to run, work out and play sports. His favorite movies are

Hitchcock movies and old classic movies. When we watch movies together,

we always make popcorn. His favorite kind of music is jazz. He works hard

and always supports us.

Sarah, 12, and Catherine Sullivan, 9

Happy Father’s Day daddy! We do so many cool things with you that we

couldn’t do with another dad. We love you so much and you are the best

dad in the whole world. We love you! Thanks for being our daddy.

The Parsons family: Shannon, Michelle and Emily

My dad is great. He is great because he takes me wherever I want to

go,he comes to all my games to cheer me on, he helps me whenever I need

help and many more things. I loved when I was born because I knew I would

have a wonderful life because my dad looked very nice. I could never wish

for a better dad.

Lauren Thagard

Our dad used to tell us we were the “wealthiest” family in Newport

Beach because of the people and love in our lives. If that’s true, then

being born the children of Ben Cagle was like winning the lottery. Not

just the weekly $10 million kind, but the one where the jackpot makes

people line up around the buildings to buy their tickets. The first thing

our dad did right was to fall in love with and marry our mom, Sherry.

With that foundation, we couldn’t fail.

We have never been without love, family, support, laughter and

encouragement. Our dad built a world where we not only believed that we

could do anything, but he sacrificed to ensure that we could accomplish

it. As we grab glory along the way... graduating from college, finding

success while enjoying our work, marrying the ones that dreams are made

of or the blessing of furthering our wealth with children... our dad

simply stands behind us and smiles, taking no credit and asking nothing

in return. But, he does deserve the credit. There is no way to repay him

for the life he has given us, so we have to take the small moments to let

him know how much we love, respect and thank him. Dad, we love you. Happy

father’s day, every day.

Jason and Sunday Cagle

Thank you for all the bowling strikes and your gentle smile.

You are my gold medalist! I love you to the end -- forever and a day.

Olivia Clark

Our dad, Bill Grundy, has been the greatest father every year for many

reasons, but 2002 is most special. From the day we first met him, he has

loved his family unconditionally and worked hard to give us the best

education and the greatest opportunities that can be found in this world.

A native of Newport Beach, he has served his community and his church

diligently and passionately.

We are most proud of him this year, for the Newport Beach Chamber of

Commerce has elected him “Citizen of the Year.” Congrats, dad.

Lisa Johnson and Gordy Grundy

My dad, Alex, is great because he always looks out for me. Even though

he’s at work most of the time. He still plays with me on the weekends. He

works in the car business and is top in sales. He plays tennis, golf,

soccer and basketball. He emigrated from Greece. He brings my friends and

I to see plays. You’re the best dad in the world.

Athena Livadas

We are convinced that our dad is the best dad on the planet. He is

always there to talk to us about anything that we may have on our minds,

froms schoolwork to dating. He is also concerned about our sports and

makes it to almost all of our athletic events, such as dance competitions

and swim meets. Another thing that we love about our dad is that he has

faith and trust in us, in everything we do. Today, we want to say thank

you for being great.

Kathryn, Patrick and Krista White

We love our daddy because he acts so goofy and he plays basketball

with us. He plays with us everyday after work, even though he’s tired. He

also helps take care of brother, even whenhe’s grouchy after work. He

loves us so much

Sidney and Devan Grace

My name is Mia and I just turned one.

My daddy is Keith and he’s lots of fun.

It’s great when we play and I just want to say,

Mommy and I think he’s the best in so many ways.

It’s Father’s Day and I want him to know

I love him more each day as I grow.

Mia Grace Matsunami

Our dad is the one who likes to play.

Though he can’t be with us all day,

Because he’s the one who earns the pay.

Thank you dad for showing us the way.

Happy Father’s Day.

Michael, Michele, Matthew and Morgan Mossman

My dad is the greatest and I’m not just saying that because I should.

He really is amazing. The best dad a girl could ask for. He is so smart,

both book and street smart, so he has taught me so much over the past 20

years. I remember being the only one of my friends that knew how to check

and fill my car with oil because my dad had taken the time to teach me

all the little things.

My dad has a wonderful personality, very outgoing and friendly to

everyone. He can’t go to the supermarket without seeing someone he knows.

Also, his sense of humor is the greatest. He is always able to make me

laugh. The best thing about my dad is how he makes me feel special by

showing me everyday how much he loves me and that he is proud of me. I

hope he knows how much I love and appreciate him too.

Nicole Ashton

Our dad is special because he is the best dad ever. We love him more

than the universe is huge. We love him more than the Earth’s land and

water put together. We have fun together doing Indian Princesses, sports

and so much more. He is a good role model for the both of us and he does

the right thing. Even if our dad is not perfect, and he gets mad, we

still love him a lot. We hope he will stay the same way he is forever.

Our dad is the greatest because he helps us in many ways to become

great people like him. He helps us become great people by setting a good

influence. He works everyday to put food on our plates, to buy a nice

home, to help us get a good education and let us do fun afterschool

activities. We do lots of afterschool activities like horseback riding,

tennis and soccer. When we do these things, he is always encouraging us

to try our hardest and to do our best even if we aren’t doing so hot.

Besides working for money he works to make our lives as perfect as he

can. Like when we are sad he is always there cheering us up, or when we

had a nightmare he comes to make the bad thoughts go away. Our dad is the

greatest, and we are glad we have him.

Sarah and Christine Light

I love my dad so much. He is always there for me. He makes me feel

better when I am sad. He laughs with me when I laugh. When I am sick he

cares for me. He’s someone who listens, suggests and defends. He’s one of

the grandest of men to of lived on this Earth. He’s my dad. Although he

loves his wood floors he also loves me. My dad is my hero; he is a

father, a husband, an uncle, a son and much more.

Kirby Burnham

Our daddy is so great because he plays with us, teaches us neat

things, always tells us how much he loves us and takes us to fun places.

We love our daddy very, very, much.

Caroline and Christina Quigg

For Jeff Margolis: “Our Lovin’ Daddy”

(to the tune of “Rockin’ Robin”)

He rocks in the office all day long,

Workin’ and talkin’ and dealing along.

He works lots of hours to make some dough,

So he can get in his car and home he’ll go.

With his two daughter (his little chickadees),

His wife makes dinner and they eat, eat, eat.

They share their days and lives with bustle,

But after dinner they romp and wrestle.

Chorus: Our lovin’ daddy, tweet, tweet, tweet

Our lovin’ daddy, tweet, tweet, tweet

He’s our daddy and we hug and love him so.

Every night he tucks us in,

Gives a kiss on our little chin.

He pulls up the covers nice and tight,

And makes us feel like everything’s right.

Chorus: Our lovin’ daddy, tweet, tweet, tweet

Our lovin’ daddy, tweet, tweet, tweet

He’s our daddy and we hug and love him so.

Zan and Allegra Margolis

You are the best daddy we could ever ask for. Thank you for always

putting your family first. We love when you play helicopter, timber and

cuddles. Thank you for taking us skateboarding, to the beach, kayaking,

to the park, to the movies, to our games and practices, and all of our

school activities. You are fun and funny, strong and smart, happy and

loving and a very cool dad. The best thing we can learn from being your

children is to be just like you.

Hunter, Skyler and Brooke Gray

He coached me in soccer but it didn’t end there,

He still coaches me through all of life’s wear and tear.

He sends me lots of money but it’s more than just that,

He’s honest and loving, he’s a real cool cat.

He taught me to drive and how to be strong,,

He helped me with school projects all the night long.

He’s funded my trips all over the place,

He always finds ways to put a smile on my face.

He unselfishly sent me to school miles away,

But continues to give guidance day after day.

I know if I asked him, his last breath he’d lend,

I’d be lost without him, my father...my friend.

Danielle Galasso

Happy first Father’s Day, daddy.

Connor Bramel

My favorite running memories are with my dad. He is the best dad a

girl could ever wish for.

Holly Anderson

For all your support and love you gave me. You are truly missed.

Courtney Cisek

Our daddy, Peter Jackson, is so great because he reads stories to us

with special effects, takes us to the park, beach and pool, always has

time for us, is always willing to play doctor, dentist or house with us,

but most of all because he is a kind, loving and generous person.

Brooke and Blake Jackson

My dad, Mark Rogers, is so great because he is not afraid to act

silly. He loves to make us laugh. He’s a good snuggler too.

Shelby and Erica Rogers

My dad’s name is Ken Boyko. I love him because he takes me places and

he is thoughtful and nice. My dad is the one who gave me all of my

nicknames. Like my name is Haley and my nicknames are Hale, Bale, Snail

and Bird. He calls me Bird because I don’t eat a lot at dinner.

The kinds of foods my dad likes are pesto, spaghetti with meatballs,

and all kinds of Italian foods because he is sort of Italian. My dad

makes friends with lots of people, like the ones at restuarants. Like

Masimo, he works at Supovie, and Dan, who works at Arches. My dad tells

good stories, but sometimes his stories are spastic and, yet, drastic.

Haley Boyko, 9

My dad, Ken Boyko, is my best friend and is the best dad in the world.

He takes me places and does things for me all of the time. It is so great

to have a loving and caring dad like he is.

My dad and I always do things together. We like motorcycles, cars and

all sorts of things. My dad also taught me how to ride a motorcycle when

I was 4 years old.

My dad is very smart. He taught me how to do many things, and I admire

him more than more than anything. The best thing about my dad is that

he’s the most loving dad in the world, and I love him more than anything.

Dustin Boyko

To the best dad in the world, Rob Weigle. Happy Father’s Day. I love

you.

Larsen Weigle

As I walk into my parents’ home, the giggles echo through the halls.

These are the giggles of my 2-year-old daughter and my father, John Arp,

in a tickle fest on the floor. Instantly, I’m taken back to my own

childhood, where these tickle fests occurred daily. We thought he was

just plain goofy; however, we now know that he made it a priority to take

the time each day to be an exceptional father.

My dad graduated from Newport Harbor High School in 1965. There he and

my mother were high school sweethearts and in October, they will be

married 34 years.

In 1971, the year I was born, he was hired by the city of Newport

Beach. First he was with the general service department, and later hired

on with the water department. Working hard to support a family, he found

it financially difficult. So to make ends meet, he joined the Naval

Reserves. There he learned to fly airplanes and discovered his true

passion in life.

In 1987, my dad’s dream came true. A commercial airline hired him as a

pilot. No one deserved this opportunity more than my father. His ambition

paid off and today he has just been made captain with United Airlines.

I’m not the only one to recognize my father’s integrity. The community

has too. Last month, he was elected to the board of directors with the

Newport Beach Credit Union. I’ve always wanted to tell my father how much

I appreciate all the sacrifices he made for our family. I love you dad,

you are my hero.

Kimberly Bertrand

I love my daddy because I do. I eat with him and go to the

merry-go-round and have pizza. And I also like to go out and play in the

park with my daddy.

My daddy goes to swimming class and lets me swim alone. My daddy helps

me walk on the balance beam, and I also play hit the ball with him. And I

go everywhere he takes me, and I love him.

Shira Strongin, 3

When Tay Irvine became a daddy,

This is what made him truly happy.

Julie is his princess,

Always looking for a kiss.

Dane is his “big guy.”

Looks just like daddy. Oh my.

Snuggling with daddy is the thing to do.

Julie and Dane love their daddy. This is true.

Julie, 4, and Dane Irvine, 1

Happy Father’s Day, dad.

Lily, 2, and Jeannie Williams, 9 months

I love my dad. Happy Father’s Day.

Chase Hall

My dad is the best dad because he loves me unconditionally through the

good times and the bad. Whenever he takes my friends and I out, we always

end up having a blast. He never embarrasses us, and he’s always acting

like a kid, being spontaneous and adventurous. He’s always ready to have

fun.

My dad only wants the best for me. He’s always striving to make my

life easier. I love my dad more than anything.

Garrett Florent

You are our hero; you are our teacher; you are our coach; you are our

friend; you are our story teller; you are our dad and you are the best.

Taylor and Parker Stone

My name is Jack Lessley, and my daddy’s name is John. I am only 6

months old, but I want everyone to know how special my daddy is. You see,

I was a preemie, born three months early. I weighed just 2 lbs., 7 oz.

and I had to stay in the NICU at Hoag Hospital for two whole months.

My daddy was always at my side. He learned al he could from the

doctors and nurses, and he helped give me my bath, change my diapers and

all kinds of stuff. He was my cheerleader, with positive thoughts and

lots of love. Daddy stayed calm and strong, which was a big help.

I got to come home from Hoag about three months ago. I am doing really

well and now weigh 15 lbs. My daddy is truly my bestest buddy. He plays

with me, helps feed me, gives me my bath, etc. He is never too tired to

spend time with me, and he makes me giggle all the time. Daddy says when

I get a little bigger, we’re gonna go surfing and skiing together.

I am very lucky to have such a special daddy. I am so proud of him,

and so is mommie.

Jack Lessley

Happy Father’s Day, daddy.

Zachary, 4, and Katey Granoff, 2

Swimming is great with daddy, Roderick Swanson.

Hudson Walker, 2

Our dad, Tod Ridgeway, always finds the time to fix our things when

they break. He always makes us laugh. He takes us fishing, bike riding,

boating and camping. He gives us lots of great advice about life and

stuff. And, he makes the world’s best milk shakes.

Even though he is busy, he always makes time for us. We love him lots

and know he loves us too.

Kyle, 12, Scott, 9, and Madison Ridgeway, 7

I am writing about my dad on behalf of my brothers and one sister. My

dad is the best. He encourages us when we play sports. He is always

positive. He works really hard. He cares for us before he cares for his

own needs. Our dad is our hero.

The Friend family

Words can’t express how much you have done for me. Thank you for

putting so much time and effort in me, to keep me happy. You are more

than a father, you are my friend. I love you.

Erica Matulich

I like my dad. He is a good dad for me. He will always be my dad. We

like to go fishing. We like to go to Fox Tribe.

Jenna Nulty, 6

Our dad, John Bodovitz, is the best because he always cares for us. He

always has something nice to say. Our dad is the greatest because he

loves us and we love him.

Paige and Kyle Bodovitz

What makes my dad great is not only do I think he is great, but

everyone who meets him thinks he is great. He is the most honest,

ethical, kindhearted person I know. He has never said a bad word and has

never said a bad thing about anyone.

He goes to church every weekend and practices his faith every day of

his life. He has time for everyone and anyone. He treats everyone with

the same amount of respect, from the mailman to the CEO of a company.

He has worked hard all of his life and made sacrifices for his family.

We have always come first, and still do. He and my mom have been married

more than 38 years.

He was diagnosed with leukemia 18 months ago and went through some

grueling treatments. Not once did he complain. He continued to run every

day, play handball and work. He never gave up. He is an optomist and

never says “Why me?” He always draws on misfortunes as opportunities to

test his faith -- always turning bad to good.

My dad and I worked in the same business for years and there is

nothing better than hearing how great people think your dad is. I know

how great he is because he is my dad, but when you hear it from others,

it is incredible.

He has not only been an unbelieveable role model for me, but for many

people. People tell me what a great influence my dad has been in their

lives and what a great man he is. All I can say in return is I am so

blessed and proud he is my dad. Thanks, dad, for everything. You are the

greatest.

Julie Roeder Pick

Happy Father’s Day to the Rollins dads -- Morris, Clay and Charles.

Marie Rollins

Let me tell you about a man named Sam,

Who directly made me the woman that I am.

His occupation does not carry enough acknowledgment for score,

But he’s proud to have put in 32 years and excited to put in some

more.

He’s the jewel that shines in my soul when I’m lost.

His powerful hands holding mine to protect me at all cost.

Words would be empty to describe this man Sam.

His unconditional love is a blessed gift for the woman that I am.

There are many who wear this title in short,

But none more deserving in all the world,

To be called “father,”

And forever stay “daddy’s little girl.”

Constance Loubuel

My dad is the best dad in the world because he always puts family

first. He spends lots of time with me and makes lots of funny faces and

noises, which make me laugh really hard. He changes my diaper, gives me

baths and reads me stories at bedtime. He takes me to the airport to

watch the planes take off and land. He teaches me things and sings silly

songs and has the patience of a saint. (My mom says that, but I don’t

know what it means.) I love my dad very much because he loves me and my

mom.

Jack Lightburne

We love our dad because he hugs us and plays with us when he comes

home. We go for fun bike rides together.

Clay, 6, and Sam Woodward, 4

Our dad, Joe Feitler, is the best dad you could ever have. He helps us

with our homework and takes time to explain stuff we don’t understand. He

comes and helps out at all of our sports, such as baseball and soccer.

Dad is always ready to throw the baseball, shoot hoops or kick the soccer

ball. We love it when he takes us surfing or snowboarding.

He encourages us when we think we can’t do it, and is always there for

us. He is even nice to us when we do something wrong. He is the person

that tells us day after day to believe in ourselves.

McKenzie and Cade Feitler

My dad, Matt West, is so great because he is the best coach of my

baseball team. And he buys me stuff.

Ryan West

We love you very much. Your love and support is incredible. You go out

of your way to make sure we get everything we need, and we appreciate

that so much. You have done so much for us, we don’t know where we would

be without you. We couldn’t have asked for a better father. Enjoy your

favorite day of the year.

Kathryn and Jennifer Bartlau

We love our dad, Terry Nemnich, because he is funny, nice and

everything we could want from a dad.

Katelyn and Andrew Nemnich

Our dad, Brett Williamson, tucks us in at night, helps with history

reports, plays “Star Wars” with us, gave us a love of for reding, as well

as a love for the Lakers. We love him so much.

Cait, Caroline and Jack Williamson

Happy Father’s Day to our wonderful daddy and best buddy, Robert

Wyatt.

Luke and Jake Wyatt

We love our daddy because he plays with us.

Reid, Emily and Ryan Meckler

My dad’s the best because he still bodysurfs the Wedge. He’s been an

example of how to stay strong even when the going gets tough. I have

become who I am due to his positive influence and down-to-earth lessons

derived from his own experiences in life.

He has always been understanding, which is hard to do sometimes with a

teenage son. As I leave for college this coming September on the start of

a new life, I know I am prepared for whatever crosses my path, and that

he will always be there for me. I always feel very lucky to have parents

as great as mine. I only hope I can be as sucessful in raising my own

children some day.

Billy Beck

My dad is the best dad ever. He takes me wherever I want to.

Page Keys

Ode to my dad

I remember being a little girl,

And looking up at you, oh, so tall.

Your handsome face, your gentle ways,

Made me so proud to call,

You “daddy.”

I remember growing older,

And watching your endless tasks.

Raising the family, remodeling our home,

God’s help, you continually asked.

My memories of childhood are many:

Popcorn with Monopoly, Seattle in a storm,

Clam digging in Ocean City,

Our basement as a dorm,

Baseball games in the alley,

Badminton in the backyard,

A tetherball set you assembled,

Lively games of cards.

Many happy times together we spent,

For you, your family was most important.

You gave me love and security,

And a wealth of other gifts.

Perserverance, courage and ambition,

Seasoned with your wit.

I remember leaving home,

To attend college and live on my own.

You gave me incentive and constant support,

In my endeavors, I never felt alone.

As your 11 children,

Went their separate ways,

Your presence and values,

were felt every day.

You celebrated and danced,

When your grandchildren arrived/

As the family expanded,

Your spirit thrived.

When mother got cancer,

And was hospitalized for days,

You became “Nurse Bob,”

And by her side lovingly stayed.

Your charisma and kindness,

Reach out to all.

And with your entire family,

You stand, oh, so tall.

Today as a grown woman,

I look at your handsome face,

The years of loving and giving,

Can never be erased.

As I look at your commanding stature,

Admiration and respect I have,

For all you are and all you gave,

So proud to call you “dad.”

Chloe Beeson Blom

I love you dad for everything that you are and everything that you do.

Whenever I am in need, you are always one step behind me in case I fall.

You have been there to rescue me more times than I can count on my

fingers and toes. Like the time I was choking on a chicken bone, or the

time you jumped into the pool, fully clothed, to save me from drowning.

Not only are these times important to me, but the times you rescued me

from things that will be forever between you and me. People come in and

out of our lives, but you will forever be my strength and my hero.

Christine Bogenrief

My favorite place to be is on my daddy’s shoulders. Happy Father’s

Day.

Emma Ulriksen

I couldn’t have chosen a better daddy.

McKenna Kummerfeldt

“G” is for my great dad and “R” is for radical because my dad is the

coolest. “E” is for everything thta he does for me and my sister and my

mom. “G” is for generous and giving. Happy Father’s Day and thanks for

always being there for us whenever and wherever. I want you to have a

special daddy’s day because you are special to me.

Julie Stewart

You’ve been with me through thick and thin.... But, of course, that’s

what you’re here for, right? Just kidding. I love you.

Melissa Stewart

Dad, you’re the best. I love you.

Michae Stewart

My dad is so great because he is a lot of fun. He lets you do tons of

stuff like stay up late. My dad is so great.

Tanner Dwan

Thanks for being such a caring, supportive and wise father. We really

appreciate all that uou do for us. As a father, husband, son and

father-in-law, your generosity and love never ceases to amaze us. We hope

you have a great Father’s Day and remember how much you are loved and

treasured.

The Rice family

Our da, Scott Henderson, and our granddad, Byron Henderson, are so

much fun.

Meg and Blair Henderson

Thank you for being such a great dad. You are always there for us and

we really appreciate it. You are always teaching us new and useful

things.

Jim and Michelle Gray

My daddi-o is the best because he laughs, dances, jumps, climbs and

plays with me every day. He puts me to bed every night, while my mommy is

working, after he reads me many stories and says a special poem. I love

you lots.

Annamaria Dodelson, 2

Thanks for being the best dad in the world. We love you.

Kailen and Josh Locke

Every time something went wrong

You said it would be all right

Every time something happened

You were right there by my side

When I was younger, I said:

“One day I’ll help you with your job.”

You said you’d wait for the day

We always talked about the day

That I would work for the government.

But now you might not see that day

I asked where you would be when I got older

You said you’d be there always and forever

But now you’re dying and we can’t help it

And when you’re gone, all I can do is miss you.

Always and forever

Kelly Lester

Happy Father’s Day to the Goldstein dads -- Merv and Ethan.

Carol Goldstein

My dad is so great for many things. He is great for being a big part

of my life. Both childhood and my adult life. Now that I have kids, I

fully understand the importance of trying to be a good dad. Thank you dad

for everything. I really look forward to our thursday morning tennis

games and runs around Balboa Island.

Dennis Bress Jr.

I have only been in this world for two short months, but I can already

tell you that I love my dady very much. He makes me smile like no one

else can. Since my first day of life, I have known I can count on him to

be there. He has carefully and accurately assembled all of my toys and

equipment, and most of all he helps my mommy.

I know that my mommy has a much easier job with him around, and she

loves him as much as I do. Every night before drifiting off into

dreamland, I thank my daddy for spening another day with us.

Elena Anne Schoen

Happy Father’s Day, Royce Sharf. We love you, daddy.

Sydney, 2, and Siena Sharf, 4

This is my first Father’s Day without my dad, Fred Schneider. He

passed away on January 19. If he were here, this is what I would tell

him. Dad, you are the best father a girl could ever have had. You always

encouraged me, always believed in me, and always inspired me to do my

best. You gave me advice when I asked for it, but you let me make my own

decisions. You loved me unconditionally. You taught us about the

importance of family, and you gave us the priceless gift of a great

family. I’ll always love you, I’ll always treasure you. I’ll forever

thank God for giving me you as my father.

Paula Bogenrief