By Drake Hunter | Commentary, NE CO Newsroom, Rocky Mountain Voice
What makes a man a great father? Not just in the sentimental sense, but in the enduring, full-bodied, legacy-building kind of way? As we celebrate Father’s Day, we at Rocky Mountain Voice would like to invite you on a journey – a journey through time, reflecting on the enduring impact of fathers.
From the respected fathers of our past, to the steady hands of today’s dads, to the hopeful plans we dream of in future fatherhood, there’s a theme – a thread, if you will. It’s not power or perfection. It’s about being genuine, having good character, and delivering a benevolent performance, all of which are interwoven in how a man shows up for his family, his work, and his world.
In every generation, there’s a breed of men who carry the weight of the world on calloused shoulders, not for glory, mind you, but for their family and children. They were firm yet kind, disciplined yet tender. They taught by example and expected their children to carry forward that same commitment to work, respect, and integrity.
As Senator Janice Rich shared with RMV: “My dad was a successful businessman. He wanted to raise us four children in a safe environment. I grew up in a small town outside of Dallas. My dad always said, If you work for someone, always be on time, learn the job, always be respectful, and don’t forget who you work for. I have carried that advice throughout my career. He was a wonderful and loving father.”
Her words echo a generation where responsibility and values were instilled not through lectures, but through life lived faithfully in front of their children.
Modern dads face a different terrain, more connected, yet often more distracted. They navigate not just how to provide, but how to be present in the moment. Today’s fathers struggle to maintain their integrity in a world of shifting expectations and conflicting roles, and we need to understand and empathize with these unique challenges.
Yet, the best of them rise to the challenge.
Representative Rebecca Keltie reflects: “I can say that one of the most important and influential people in my life was my dad. He was my hero and mentor. I miss him every day. There’s no replacement for a strong, loving father. I feel lucky I was able to have him in my life. Please honor fathers this Father’s Day like they deserve. They held you in your beginning with love and tenderness, and you’ll hold him the same way at his end. Love and cherish them tremendously and continuously until then. Happy Father’s Day to all the great dads!”
Keltie’s tribute is a powerful reminder: the impact of a good father lasts beyond his lifetime.
The future of fatherhood depends on the seeds we plant today.
What kind of men will our boys grow into? Will they value integrity over image? Will they model courage and compassion? Will they lead their families with strength shaped by love?
Let us not merely celebrate dads with a card or a breakfast burrito (though those are welcome); let us celebrate them in a more meaningful way. Let’s elevate the role. Let’s tell the stories. Let’s build a culture where fatherhood is not sidelined but honored as a cornerstone of a healthy society, because they truly deserve our respect and appreciation.
The voices of those shaped by strong fathers continue to remind us just how lasting their influence can be.
“Fathers serve such an incredibly important role in our society – they show their sons how to be a dad; they are the first man from whom young women learn how they should be esteemed; they model leadership, compassion and work ethic. They play, coach, and model relationships for those they serve as a father figure,” shared Senator Lisa Frizell.
“I was very blessed to have my dad, Bill Norris, who was all of those things and more. While he’s been gone for twenty years, I still miss him every single day. I was equally fortunate to be close with my two grandfathers, and they taught me the importance of education, civic engagement and service to others,” Frizell added.
From the guiding wisdom of grandfathers to the everyday encouragement of dads, these reflections honor fatherhood’s enduring light.
“Father’s Day is one of my favorite days as it celebrates my Dad, who is such an inspiration to me! He’s always been there for me, and my friends, and my kids. No questions asked. From convincing fellow golfers on the course to vote for me, to helping me and my friends as crazy high schoolers avoid shenanigans, he’s a bright light for all,” shared Heidi Ganahl, RMV Founder and daughter of James Ganahl.
As for myself, fatherhood is not a role, it’s a calling. It shapes the soul of a child, the strength of a home, and the future of a nation. That’s why we celebrate fathers who carry more than just responsibility; they carry legacy.
This Father’s Day, whether you are honoring your dad, nurturing your children, or guiding the next generation, truly, take pride in knowing that your presence is significant. Your demeanor shapes experiences. Your values motivate others. Your contributions, whether noticed or not, create lasting legacies.
Happy Father’s Day to all the good men who have loved, led, and lifted others. You are not forgotten. You are the story.
Drake Hunter is an RMV Ambassador, a proud father to Joshua and Jeremiah, and a devoted grandfather to Lilly-pad and Thommy-boy. He is also the son of Greg Hunter.
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.