Daddy,

You know I have never been one to be short on words for just about anything, until now. I had a hard time writing this. Not because I didn't have anything to say, but because I had a hard time trying to condense the endless examples of why you will be missed. You were hands down, the best dad that anyone could ever ask for. Aside from being such an amazing father you were an all around amazing person. Over the years we would joke about how you knew everyone, no matter where we went. I remember that time we went on vacation halfway around the world, and you found someone that you knew from way back in the day. You never knew a stranger. I think that's because people always gravitated towards you and your infectious personality, your willingness to listen and your acceptance for who they were. You were someone who never had an unkind word for anyone. Well, except for maybe a Cleveland Browns fan. But, you always treated people with kindness, dignity and respect. 

You were someone that simply enjoyed life and I am so sorry that you didn't get to spend more time here to enjoy it. You loved nothing more than a hot sunny day with a cold beer in hand. So don't think we all didn't notice how you decided to leave us right before the polar vortex came to town. 😛I always thought you would be here until you were at least 100. In my mind, surely, there was no way that you would be taken from us this early. But I know the Lord was looking down on you from above and knew it was time to call you home. So, even though it will so damn hard going through each day without you, it makes it a little bit easier knowing ithat you are no longer in pain and know of no sadness where you are. 

Daddy, you will be truly missed by so many. I am so grateful for the time we had together and will forever cherish your advice, wisdom and love all these years. I am thankful for you always being there for us. One thing about you is that you are always showed up when needed, even if that meant rolling a giant cooler behind you, so you had enough snacks for the day. From scholarship dinners as a teen, to showing up when I wasn't strong enough to get a lock nut off my toilet, to driving an hour each way to take dance lessons with me, it didn't matter when, where or what time, you were a man of his word and you showed up. 

You have taught me so much in this lifetime. From learning how to paint, to changing a tire, to electrical work, how to use power tools, and of the value of someone's word being worth more than gold. You taught me how to have unwavering patience, how to be strong in the face of adversity, but also how to love unconditionally. But I think the most important thing you have taught me was to enjoy life like everyday could be my last. For that, I say thank you. 

We are all going to miss you so much and will love and honor you for a lifetime.

Rest easy Daddy. 

Love,

Your Baby Girl

Deanna L. Garibaldi

*Deanna, the fourth-born child and youngest daughter of Herman Lee Jr., resides in Spring, Texas. She is a proud mother to Jackson Garabaldi, the second youngest grandchild, and cherishes the family bond her father helped cultivate.