“There’s nothing else I’d rather do than sit around and talk to you and reminisce about a simpler time. The music that we made, was simple but it stayed in my memory and on my mind.” Leon Redbone, Dancing on Daddy’s Shoes
That was the song Dad and I had chosen years ago for the first dance at my wedding.
I am so lucky to have such an amazing man as my father. The memories and knowledge he left with me will last me a lifetime. Dad was my human GPS. Any time I needed to get anywhere within 50 miles of the City of Akron, Dad knew at least 5 different ways to get there, and would gladly describe all of them to me in great detail just to further confuse me.
When I was little I was convinced my Dad was a celebrity. I could never run an errand with him without running into at least one person he knew. Everywhere I go, people stop me and ask “are you Barry’s daughter?” Sometimes I have to pretend to recognize them, but it always makes me so proud to know how many people truly loved my Dad.
My Dad was never a fan of new technology. I am convinced that he only used his work computer to play free cell. The only saved voicemail I have is from him saying that he couldn’t tell if he had a missed call from me or not and that he hated cell phones. Even if he knew how to use his phone, he never had it on him at any time.
Some of my favorite memories of my father were during the City of Akron’s annual take your daughter to work day. Apparently my Dad’s job description was to take me around to visit every single person present that day and to eat at least one meal at Slick Rick’s. I’m hoping that his position will still be available once I can go back to work. These city workers were such a vital aspect of my Dad’s life; they truly became his extended family. For that I am incredibly grateful.
Dad, you were such an incredible man, you never complained once about being sick. You never once mentioned the pain I am sure you were in but hid from us. You fought cancer with such strength and grace, I am so proud of you.
I love you Dad, please say hi to Grammy, Pops, Uncle Jack, and Uncle Eddie for me. I know you are all up there having a party, smoking cigars, and watching over us. I know I will see you again someday. You will always be my hero, and I will always be your little girl.
