Celebrating the Father Figures in our Lives

Dads. Grandfathers. Stepdads. Uncles. Husbands. The list of fatherly figures in our lives could go on and on. Some of the best memories or greatest bits of advice have come from these kind, wise men. Read on for more about the lasting impact of their words or actions on the women of Suzanne & Company.

Words to Live By

Some are men of few words. Others could write a book. No matter where they fall on the spectrum, we’ve rounded up their nuggets of wisdom:

“You plant potatoes, you get potatoes”
 Maureen’s dad, on setting realistic expectations

“Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.”
Thais’s dad, who carries this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt around in his wallet to always keep it close

"Money Talks & BS walks"
Katie’s dad, who translated this more to “Actions speak louder than words” as his actions always spoke volumes and earned him respect

“A poor mechanic blames his tools.”
Ann’s dad, an attorney who handled labor negotiations

“Proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance”
Maureen’s dad (and we’re loving the alliteration!), on setting yourself up for success.

"Life's short; make it hurt"
Katie’s dad, pushing her to enjoy life, have balance and push the (reasonable) boundaries.

"Everything in moderation, nothing in excess."
Steph’s dad, on keeping yourself grounded

“Always ask for a bit more than you want.”
Ann’s dad, because if you don’t ask, you don’t get

"Everyone needs a break in life" 
Katie’s dad, who took the opportunity his uncle provided when hiring him at 16 years old to work on the back of a trash truck to work hard and stay focused, ultimately owning a company.

Illustrating Virtues and Leading by Example

Suzanne’s dad taught her the importance of working hard to curate a great life for your family, introducing her to a lot of shared passions like boating, travel, gardening and Cape Cod summers. But most importantly, he showed the value of believing in your kids, providing a sense of love and support and is priceless.

With a remarkable ability to engage anyone he meets in conversation, Becky’s dad is the friendliest person she knows. Through decades of seeing his jovial spirit in action, she learned that the way you engage with and embrace the people around you can make everyone feel good.

Malorie’s dad has always encouraged her to follow her dreams, supporting her every step of the way. It’s fitting that his best piece of advice is to do what makes you happy.

Another important father figure in Suzanne’s life is late father-in-law, who exemplified family values, selfless love and support and valued wholesome family experiences. These values are evident in his son and Suzanne’s husband, Ryan, as he parents their children in the same manner.

Lauren, our newest team member, recounts her most cherished advice from her dad - to follow your dreams and stay true to who you are.

Katie’s dad led by example in all aspects of his life, from his hard-working nature that allowed him to grow professionally to his prioritizing of family over everything else. His patience, kindness, generosity and sense of humor set the tone for generations to come.

Ali has always viewed her father as an outstanding role model, exemplifying kindness, compassion and empathy toward others.

Serving as a shining example of working hard, Andrea acquired her strong work ethic from her dad. Her husband, Mike, is a great dad and is always cheering the boys on in sports and school. He brings a lot of fun into her home and is always up for an adventure!

Fortunate to have grown up with her grandfather who always gave outstanding  advice and guidance, Melissa credits her work ethic and appreciation for the little things in life to him.

Carey inherited her independent, determined nature from her dad. Shortly after she learned to drive, he taught her how to change a tire, a skill that proved useful just recently. Her dad always emphasized education and putting your best effort into every endeavor.

With adulthood comes a new appreciation for our parents. Beth has learned that she and her father are very similar creatures, as their relationship is now a blend of father/daughter and friendship. They share a unique sense of humor and always have a great time together.

Through many of life's challenges and triumphs, Darcy’s dad has always reminded her to be true to herself and to follow her own path.

Providing Memories to Last a Lifetime

Family vacations can yield some of the best experiences. Steph’s favorite memory is being on vacation at Silver Lake in Michigan as a little girl. Their family of 5 stayed in a cabin, played in the shallow water ALL day, chased minnows, and roasted marshmallows on the beach at night.

While too young to remember it happening, a heartwarming story of Darcy’s dad harkens back to when she was a preemie in the NICU. Always an artist, her dad felt that she (and the other babies there) needed art in their little lives. He would draw pictures and put them on the outside of her incubator, and he also put them on the other babies' incubators as well, so they could have art too. He would switch them out frequently. 

Some of Lauren’s favorite memories include favorite times trips to Cape Cod, trying out different ice cream shops and spending days at the beach together.

Melissa recounts her favorite memory with her dad - when she and her four siblings  gathered together in the summer and went on our beach vacation as a whole family.

Carey’s dad left his small hometown in Ohio for college, but always brought his family back over Labor Day weekend for the big county fair. She fondly recalls the games and fair food they enjoyed together. She has now shared this experience with her own kids and looks forward to creating more memories at the fair with them.

Family trips to Arizona provided some of Malorie’s favorite memories with her dad. Exploring, hiking, laying in the sun, and finding the best breakfast spot to try was what they are all about.

Thank you for taking the time to read through the impact that father figures have had on our lives.

These memories, quotes and anecdotes merely scratch the surface of the lifelong lessons and inspirations we have gained from these influential men.

We invite you to share stories of your best advice, favorite memory or life lesson learned from a father figure in your life!

Email us at team@suzandco.com.