Hello everyone and thanks for joining us. For those of you who don’t know me or haven’t seen me since I was a little blonde toddler, I’m David’s son Andrew, or Andy, or to my Aunt Jayne; the only person who calls me ‘Drew’. I’m going to say a few words about my dad before I turn it over to Father Alex, so we can get this show on the road. 

I mean no disrespect when I say this to all the excellent dads in the room, but my Dad, our dad, was truly the World’s #1 Dad. Little did I know that this card we sent him on Father’s Day would be the last. It read “Hope you have a great day. Thanks for all you do. See you soon - Amy, Andy & Cora” 

Not unlike my father, it was simple and it covered everything that needed to be said in a few words. He did SO much for our family over the course of his life. He was an excellent provider for my mother, sister and me. He was an amazing role model in every category.  He treated my mother with the utmost respect that she deserved. When my sister or I misbehaved, his response was the classic “I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed” that I’m sure many of you can relate to. As we grew older and called on him for help, he always knew exactly what to say no matter the circumstances. 

He taught us the value of a hard day’s work and the importance of being able to relax and spend time with family. We were fortunate enough to have all of our wants and needs taken care of, but he showed us that we needed to care for the material possessions in our lives; as they were a privilege to have. Due to his life of hard work and intelligent financial decisions, he was able to retire early and fully enjoy the last 5 years of his life doing what he loved best; spending time at the lake in Oshkosh, continuing to learn about subjects that interested him, and caring for those around him. 

As a lifelong learner he was extremely generous with his time and knowledge, willing to share both with anyone who’d ask and expected nothing in return. He loved my mother’s family with his whole heart and I truly don’t think there was any difference in his mind between his own family and his in-laws, something which I am fortunate enough to learn from and practice in my own life with my wife Amy’s large, extended family.

His legacy will continue to live on through the wisdom he imparted in me and the way he taught me to treat others with dignity and respect. We are grateful that the gifts he left behind through DonateLife Wisconsin will continue to improve the lives of countless others for years to come,  a true testament to the way that he spent each day during his time on Earth. Without a doubt, I consider him to be a true hero and indeed the World’s #1 Dad.