Clients of the salon know my dad as Carl, the hairdresser, as a serious, hard-working yet caring and funny guy. He would lend an ear and give great advice while crafting that new hair style (like it or not). Oh, and don’t be late!
His employees saw the meticulous nature in which he run his business. The level of excellence he expected from each, as well as himself. They got to know Carl the mentor, who helped them become one of the best stylists in the area. They got to know Carl, the father, who helped them become the best person they could be. They got to know Carl, the business man, who help some become successful salon owners. He never viewed other salons as competition. He told me, “it’s best to have your competitor across the street. The two businesses feed each other.”
I saw him as a quiet man and gentle father. He did not yell when we did something wrong, he just gave us that ‘I am disappointed in you look’, which was much worse than any form of punishment. He and my mother parented out of love, kindness and words. There was no hitting or screaming, just those looks from dad and a talk from mom. If we were really bad, dad partook in the ‘talk’ too.
Dad was a great provider and guider. We never wanted for anything, be it medical necessities or luxurious items. His words of wisdom saw us through tough times and helped us decide which path to take. He also shared all of these fatherly traits with his employees, clients, family members, whoever asked. He took the roll of provider and mentor to whomever was in his circle; all felt comfortable and safe in his presence.
My dad was also a righteous man. He read the bible twice and lived his life accordingly. Like a great father to all, he was slow to anger, kind and generous. My dad didn’t walk around preaching the Word of the Lord, nor did he point his finger and tell us what to do. He showed us what to, what not to do and how to live our lives in accordance with the scripture by how he lived his life, crafted his words and shared his time and resources.
When growing up, there was always someone living with us. You never knew who you’ld find in the kitchen; be it one of his employees, a relative or one of our friends. Our parents never turned any one away. If fact, they would offer before the person asked. Their door was always open. People had food for their belly, a roof over their head and money for their pocket - no one was turned away and nothing was asked for in return. My parents’ house was the house of plenty and the house of love. They both loved and gave unconditionally.
My dad treasured holiday dinners with his family. He relished our Italian family traditions and meals. He also loved golfing with his late wife, son, family and friends. Dad was a greats dancer too. He and mom would take over the dance floor when doing the jitterbug – they were a real crowd pleaser! After mom passed, Pop took pleasure in tending to the house, inside and out; he was the shopper, cooker, cleaner and gardener.
Pop will be missed by many but his legacy lives on. Happy eternal-life birthday dad! Reside happily with all those that went before you. I will see you again, when the time comes. Til then, thank you, I miss you, and I will love you always! Carla