Yesterday, members of the community, friends and family presented Dad with a bench in his honour at the Midland Bay Sailing Club
It reads:
“IN HONOUR OF GERRY VANKLINK
Long – time contributor to MBSC and the community.”
It was a day many weeks (months) in the making. And they made the decision to make the bench in his “honour” versus “In memory” so it could be presented to Dad while he’s still alive and recognize him for his years as President of the sailing club, of the #rotary club, of the Midland Golf and Country Club and of the Harbour committee — just to name a few of his contributions to our town.
My dad was a business man in his day (a local store owner) and someone who believed in being active in and giving back to his community. So it was really nice to see his community recognize him like this and give back to him.
And it helps us to know that the bench will live on for decades after Dad is gone.
The fact that it was presented to him this weekend, Father’s Day weekend, and that he is still with us to receive it, has made this an extra special weekend for us.
For all the fathers, step fathers and father figures out there, may you have the happiest of Father’s Days today.
And for the people out there who are experiencing Father’s Day without your dad or for fathers who are experiencing this Father’s Day without your child, may you find a way to celebrate the day and remember your loved one who loved you more than words can say.
Finally, for all of you whose fathers are #terminal like mine, may you enjoy your bittersweet time together today and make memories for the future.
#caregiverlife #endoflifejourney #fathersday2022