Happy 93rd Birthday to my Dad, Homer!
My dad, Levi Homer Shank, was born April 2, 1930.
First, he’s handsome, fun, lighthearted, has a great sense of humor and makes me laugh a lot.
Dad is like a magnet with people. His energy, love, compassion and friendly ways with everyone he meets, is the magnet.
Similarly, his sense of humor is carried out into his life every day.
From the time I was a little girl, I remember the love my mom and dad had for each other. My siblings and I would all giggle each day when he got home from working as a carpenter and swoop my mom into his arms for a big kiss!
Because my dad didn’t want my mom to work outside of the home, to make ends meet with 5 kids, he’d come home after working all day, eat dinner and then leave again to work until late at night.
After that, he’d turn around and do this for 5 more days. Only he never worked on Sundays. This was the day we went to church, had Sunday dinner/lunch and visited with extended family.
He was always a fantastic listener and still is today. I always feel like Dad really cares about me and what I have to say. Hence, I’ve always felt like I matter greatly to him. I call him every night.
Above all, my parents taught all of us great values by their example. Their faith and being of service is something that has come naturally to my parents. Dad remains a big part of their church, making a difference in many lives.
The importance of family is a value Mom and Dad taught this huge family, as they began their life together in marriage, on February 11, 1951.
As my dad celebrates another birthday, a strong attribute of his, remains. Compassion.
It was very visible after my Mom, was diagnosed with cancer in October 2019. He did a wonderful job helping my mom and caring for her.
After Mom passed away August 16, 2021, he even learned more things to cook and to do his own laundry. Despite my sisters near him and other family members, telling him they would do his laundry. He chooses to do it himself.
Even though Dad misses the love of his life he was married to for over 70 1/2 years, I admire his strength to keep moving forward each day.
For example, a good attitude, daily walking, his faith and eating right, contribute to his youthful life he lives.
Going back to in person church, after Covid, each Sunday is something he’s passionate about. My sister usually goes with Dad. She tells me, you can tell he loves being there with everyone.
As a result of taking care of himself, he was able to fly and travel with me and Hale this past January to our new condo in Daytona Beach.
We experienced a Space X launch at Kennedy Space Center, a VIP tour of Daytona Speedway, driving our car on the beach, and much more!
Because adventure is something that Dad loves, he ticked off many items on his bucket list.
Sadly, I won’t be with him for his 93rd birthday. However, he will be driving up here with my sister and husband mid April. It was important to him to meet his 32nd great grandchild, Elijah, our 6th grandchild, born February 17th.
Most of all, we are blessed to have each other. I love you Dad, more than I can express. I know you know how much I love you.
Thank you for being the most amazing example of what a loving, caring, Godly man is to me, all my siblings, our spouses, all your grandchildren and great grandchildren, to Mom for over 72 together and everyone you meet!
Your gifts you continually share, will live on for generations.
Happy 93rd birthday to the most amazing man and Dad!
With all my love and appreciation,
Connie
PS. Here is a link to some birthday greetings for someone this age:
PSS. NASCAR is one of Dad’s passions. See photo below.
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