As plans are made for Father’s Day, it is always wonderful to celebrate the amazing fathers and father figures who have been part of our lives. However, when one of them has died, these honorary days can be painful. Sometimes it is bittersweet as you recognize those who are here, while deeply missing those who are gone—all at the same time.
The SandCastles team put together a few ideas they had as ways to honor and celebrate those we remember. Knowing love never dies, and honoring grief as a form of love, consider doing something special in memory of those who have gone before us.
- Listen to Music
- “Singing was a staple in our household. Dad loved to sing and Irish songs were a favorite.” Lizanne
- “Listen to Motown– his favorite music.” Kelly
- “Listen to country music because he would sing songs or whistle them to wake us up in the morning.” Linda
- Treat Yourself
- “He loved chocolate cake so I either bake a cake or buy a slice of chocolate cake.” Linda
- “He loved butter pecan and spumoni ice cream and although those aren’t my flavors, I will certainly toast him with a dish of chocolate chocolate chunks from our favorite place.” Peggy
- Be Sassy—Drinking my grandpa’s favorite drink and slurping his drink like he used to :)” Leah
- Do his favorite hobby—”Fishing” Tim
- Take a trip—”Visit his favorite places.” Kelly
- Play a favorite game—“My Dad liked to play Euchre and Solitaire” Peggy
- Plan a fun event –”Going to the Drive-in” Jennifer
- Go to a show—”Old muscle cars, high performance” Tim
- Go to a game—“He loved Michigan football—Fall Saturdays are marching band music and football” Peggy
- Plant a garden—“Plant a remembrance garden” Kelly
- Share memories—“Tell my kids a fun memory” Kelly
- Laugh—“Tell one his jokes!” Peggy
- Spiritual or Religious Practice—”Faith was paramount – prayer and attending Church is a tribute to his Faith” Lizanne
- Visit the gravesite –”Military Cemetery visit and place poppies on the grave” Lizanne
- Volunteer or donate –“Support a cause that they valued, with your time, talent, or donation” Peggy