Sunday, June 17, 2007

Happy Father's Day

Meet my dad, Norman Bridge Keller, Jr., born in 1922 in Pasadena, California. A Civil Engineer by trade, he met my mother on a blind date. Secluded in his room, studying very hard for school, he refused his roommate's prompting to come out to the living room to "meet this girl." After giving in to his friend's insistence, he left his desk, walked toward the living room, turned the corner and saw her. In that moment he says, "I saw my future." (What a romantic!) They married and had 4 girls, of whom I was the baby. Due to his career, they had opportunity to travel worldwide together. Quite unexpectedly, as these things are, my mother had a severe stroke in 1991 which left her almost completely paralyzed. Dad lovingly and meticulously cared for her in their home for 9 1/2 years around the clock until her death in 2000. Their family physician was certain the only reason she lived as long as she did was due to Dad's thorough and watchful care. He loved his bride. Dad, thank you for your example of sacrificial love not only for your children, but for your wife. Thank you for providing a loving and nurturing home, but thank you most of all for your fervent love for your Savior. I love you, Daddy.

7 comments:

Jen said...

::sniff::
wiping a tear, Jean - that was beautiful!

Anonymous said...

Jean ... thanks so much for sharing about your dad. I love learning more and more about your wonderful family. What a blessing!
Hugs!

Anonymous said...

Your dad is a great man. I have enjoyed every brief interaction with him. Wonderful and fitting tribute.

Lydia Jane said...

oh aunt jean, how lovely!

Anonymous said...

I love your Dad! Such a fascinating person to talk with. I always look forward to seeing him around the holidays.

Lala

TK said...

Awe,he's adorable. You look a lot like him too! I'd love to see pics of your sisters. Having 5 girls of my own i'm partial to familles with all girls! :)

TK said...

Jean, I love your necklace! where did you get it? Have I asked you this already? Anyway, it's so nice!